Head of Innovation at Safaricom

We are pleased to announce the following vacancy within the Executive Business Analyst & PMO.

In keeping with our current business needs, we are looking for a person who meets the criteria indicated below:

Head of Innovation

Ref: EBA/PMO_HOI_FEB 2012

Reporting to the Executive Business Analyst and PMO, the job holders’ role will be to define and drive the Company’s innovation strategy through providing direction in delivery of compelling and innovative products & services.

The role holder will work very closely with all Business Units, and other key Stakeholders to grow revenue, while managing costs of innovation, through establishment and review of efficient processes.

Key Responsibilities

Innovation Management and Review

• Defining & Driving portfolio Innovation strategy and roadmap;
• Creating, evaluating and analyzing proposals for new business ideas;
• Evaluating technological trends and developing product features to achieve product goals and enhance customer experience;
• In liaison with relevant teams within the business undertake Market research and Competitive analysis to understand customers’ needs, competitor offering and obtain relevant customer insights that will aid in innovation.

Revenue Growth & Cost Control

• Meet revenue targets for Contribution of all innovations;
• Drive cost reduction initiatives through both the development of products/ business process and review of existing products & service/business processes.

Project Management

• Project Management of the development / enhancement of products and services through the approved gate process;
• Documentation and approval of the Product & Innovation Description and Business Case.

Products Performance Monitoring

• Prepare product performance reports within the portfolio and undertake post-launch reviews of all products and services;
• Proactively review customer’s feedback on products and services and follow up to ensure closure.

Products Performance Monitoring

• Prepare product performance reports within the portfolio;
• Undertake post-launch reviews of all products and services to assess actual market take-up against anticipated take-up as presented in the Business Case.

People/Performance management

• Prepare clear objectives and targets for members of the respective/cross functional teams with clear deliverables and timelines;
• Identify coaching needs and execute and document recommendations;
• Manage staff effectively through reward & recognition of both individual and team performance.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelors Degree in Commerce or a Technical field – Engineering or Information Technology from a recognized university;
• At least 8 years work experience in the Telecoms/ICT space or FMCG. This is expected to include: 5 years in product development/Project management in a telecommunications environment, 3 of which should be at a management level;
• Experience in managing multiple projects (6 – 12 month duration) simultaneously from start to finish, which have impact across a company, customers and on the revenue generation capability of the organization;
• Good understanding of regulatory framework for mobile operations particularly in the Kenyan environment;
• Excellent project management skills;
• A highly motivated person with a positive attitude towards work;
• Innovative, creative, results oriented with excellent analytical skills;
• A proven team player with excellent communication and interpersonal skill.

If you feel that you are up to the challenge and possess the necessary qualification and experience listed above please send your resume and application letter indicating your experience and why you are the most suitable candidate for the role clearly quoting the job title to the address below.

The deadline for application is Friday 10th February 2012.

The Senior Manager – Talent Acquisition
Safaricom Ltd
Nairobi
Via E-mail to: hr@safaricom.co.ke