The Director - Network Construction is responsible for ISP and OSP construction, Critical System Infrastructure, Right of Way, building the network infrastructure needs and then optimizing that network capacity for TDS Telecom (ILEC, CLEC, and Cable). This position will serve as a primary liaison between Field Services, MSCO, GRA and other Network Services entities to determine the proper timing of deploying and optimization our network infrastructure builds, working within the capital budget targets. This involves taking input from other Network Services entities, Field Services, GRA and MSCO and determining the priority of fulfilling various network needs. This includes the deploying of Central Office Equipment and deployment of Outside Plant infrastructure, Critical Infrastructure, including managing Right of Way and Contractors. This also involves working to maintain our Metasolv, GIS, CAD, and Martens Plant Record systems so that as network is constructed it is also recorded and available for sales. This involves working with the major switching, transmission equipment and next generation technologies including PON, VOIP, IPTV and wireless.
Responsibilities
Provides leadership for all “Construction” personnel including ISP Construction, OSP construction, Critical Infrastructure, Right of Way, Contractors, developing people, budgeting, process improvements, training, resource allocation and cost control.
Primary interfaces with the Field Services, Net Ops, GRA, and MSCO to ensure successful implementation of the Voice, Video and Data network within the financial (OPex and Capex) targets established.
Meets with and actively manages various vendors, from equipment vendors to data circuit providers to deliver what they promise on time and within the expected cost structure.
Oversees and coordinates the preparation and management of the TDS Telecom Network Services capital and expense budget. Including assigned program level capital responsibilities.
Work with the Supply Chain Services team on development of RFP’s, bids, system development, and process improvement to reduce costs paid to external companies and internal expenses.
Finding new construction contractors and contract negotiations with the existing contractors to meet build commitments, reduce costs, and add construction capacity and capability.
Control related activities including the applicable NS Sox controls related to fixed assets, Capital spending, call detail billing and network security.
As a key NS Leader, contributes to the NS leadership team in assuring a cohesive body of processes for network planning, engineering, and construction as well as assuring we have a culture that focuses on operational excellence, consistent with overall TDS Telecom mission and values.
Serves on internal and external industry committees and work groups
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree (or higher) –OR- 4+ years professional work experience.
15+ years of experience in the telecommunications field including assignments in the engineering, construction, and local company operations area.
10+ years of experience in management or supervisory role.
Other Qualifications
Master’s in Business Administration degree highly desirable.
Proven ability to communicate complex issues effectively to varied audiences, among them senior executives. Must be able to distill complex information to its most salient points for key decision-makers.
Product Development and Management experience considered a plus
Proven experience developing initiatives with concrete results.
Proven leadership ability, demonstrating coaching of network and contact center professionals.
Proven ability to assess risks, develop risk management plans—both formal and informally—and to drive toward execution in the presence of imperfect information
Superior ability to analyze and forecast resource needs and to optimize those needs across many projects.
Proven ability to provide excellent judgment and leadership in crisis management situations.
Proven ability to effectively interact with peers to develop near-term and long-term strategies.
At TDS, we embrace Equal Employment Opportunity by valuing our differences and consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by law. To learn about our diversity & inclusion philosophy and culture, click here!
