Account Manager - OpenRAN (Africa)

Role Overview

This position focuses on building and executing a regional sales strategy for Open RAN technology across Africa, with an emphasis on winning new business from mobile network operators and expanding existing accounts. Day to day, you will be driving the entire sales process—from prospecting and technical alignment with engineering teams to contract negotiation and final closure—while also feeding market intelligence back into the broader MEA sales organisation. Your efforts directly determine how quickly the company’s Open RAN portfolio gains traction in a competitive and rapidly digitising telecom landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and lead the Open RAN sales plan for African markets, setting clear targets for revenue, market share, and strategic account growth.
• Identify, qualify, and convert sales opportunities within mobile network operators, telecom infrastructure companies, and adjacent technology partners.
• Manage the complete sales cycle, including initial discovery, technical solution alignment, proposal drafting, pricing negotiations, and closing agreements.
• Build and maintain a robust sales pipeline that consistently supports regional revenue projections and long-term growth goals.
• Cultivate executive-level relationships with MNO decision-makers and procurement teams, positioning the company as a preferred Open RAN partner.
• Coordinate with the MEA sales team and technical support staff to ensure consistent messaging, smooth customer handoffs, and high post-sales satisfaction.
• Track competitive activity, technology adoption trends, and regulatory factors across Africa to refine sales tactics and inform product strategy.
• Represent the company at regional telecom industry events and customer meetings, strengthening brand credibility and generating new leads.

Requirements & Qualifications

• At least 8 years of demonstrated experience in telecommunications sales, ideally focused on mobile network infrastructure, radio access, or related network equipment.
• Minimum 3 years of direct sales experience within Africa or the MEA region, including a relevant network of operator contacts and proven deal outcomes.
• Established track record of closing six- or seven-figure contracts with mobile network operators and telecom enterprises, consistently meeting or exceeding quotas.
• Solid technical understanding of 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G architectures, including how Open RAN interfaces with existing network layers and core systems.
• Familiarity with complex, multi-stakeholder procurement processes in telecom, including RFx responses, technical evaluations, and long sales cycles.
• Bachelor’s degree (B.Sc) or equivalent higher education qualification in a relevant field such as engineering, telecommunications, or business.
• Strong professional references and a history of maintaining long-term customer relationships in the African telecom market.
• Preferred: Prior experience selling Open RAN or O-RAN solutions, plus working knowledge of RAN platforms, core network components, and major infrastructure vendors.