Francis Kariuki Kamau
BIOGRAPHY
Product management and technical sales leader in telecom and big data engineering. Expert in go-to-market strategies, network optimization (GSM to 5G), and cloud solutions. Passionate about bridging the digital divide in Sub-Saharan Africa through innovation and data visualization.
SKILLS
- Go-to-Market & Product Strategy
- User Experience & Design Thinking
- Strategic & Agile Planning
- Pricing & Revenue Strategy
- Cloud Architecture & Data Engineering
- Market to Lead & Lead to Cash
SERVICES
What I Do
01
Network Planning & Optimization
Expert planning and optimization of GSM, UMTS, LTE & NR networks, ensuring optimal coverage and capacity for telecommunications infrastructure
02
5G Solutions
Specialized implementation of 5G Fixed Wireless Access and network development strategies, driving next-generation connectivity solutions
03
Rural Connectivity
Strategic planning and deployment of rural network solutions across Sub-Saharan Africa, bridging the digital divide
04
Handset affordability Initiatives
I spearhead the handset affordability initiative, focussing on making mobile phones more accessible to underserved populations in Africa
05
Technical Consultancy
Professional guidance on spectrum allocation, site evolution, and network capacity optimization for maximum efficiency
06
Infrastructure Development
Comprehensive planning and execution of new site builds and frequency modernization projects
WORK
Work Experience
Product Manager / Netwok Analyst / Regional Expert
Huawei Technologies | December 2024 - Present
Key Responsibilities
- Developed FWA strategies at Huawei, boosting market share.
- Optimized MBB and FWA synergy for better network performance.
- Guided budgets for MTN and Airtel, improving financial results.
- Implemented Rural Solutions to reduce the digital divide.
- Designed user-centric promotions to enhance engagement.
- Trained product managers to improve technical skills.
- I spearheaded handset affordability initiative focussing on making mobile phones more accessible to underserved populations in Africa
Product Engineer / Southern Africa Region Technical Sales
Huawei Technologies | December 2022 - December 2024
Key Responsibilities
- Plan wireless networks, site evolution, and spectrum use.
- Provide budget guidance and forecast network growth.
- Guide engineers on data collection and network analysis.
- Generate insights using Tableau and Rabbit visualization.
- Analyze congestion, coverage, and user experience, recommending solutions.
- Plan new sites, frequency modernization, and 5G FWA expansion.
- Assess data tariffs, market trends, and competitive strategies.
- Collaborate with operators to align 5G initiatives with market needs.
Big Data Architect
Huawei Technologies | July 2022 - December 2022
Key Responsibilities
- Managed the development and implementation of big data-driven solutions
- Developed scalable data architectures and optimized data processing pipelines
- Designed and implemented ETL/ELT processes using Hadoop
- Managed data from on-premises and cloud provisioned resources
- Wrote complex SQL queries and scripts in Python and Java
- Developed data models and data visualizations for data analysis
- Designed user interface and use cases utilizing Tableau skills, leading to an increase in productivity among non-technical users
Field Engineer
Baran Telecom Networks Kenya Limited | Feb 2022 - July 2022
Key Responsibilities
- Provided technical support for various systems and technologies
- Installed and integrated wireless hotspots (Ruckus, Cisco)
- Tested products and optimized performance, cost, and schedule
- Designed and debugged low-power embedded microprocessor systems
- Developed specifications for product design and validation
- Reduced costs and improved product performance
- Designed and deployed Wide Area Networks and IoT solutions
- Managed IoT network testing, deployment, and maintenance
- Configured routers, switches, and network infrastructure
- Installed fiber networks and configured Huawei AR/Cisco routers
- Deployed and maintained microwave, E1/SIP, and P2P links
- Troubleshot and maintained MPLS/P2P networks
Engineer
Adpower Limited (JTL) | Jun 2017 - Dec 2021
Key Responsibilities
- Installed fiber and commissioned routers
- Conducted fiber and power installation surveys
- Managed technician teams
- Reported on fiber installation progress
CONSULTANCY
What I Offer
Business
&
Network Consultancy
Product management involves developing innovative strategies and solutions to address technical and commercial challenges, ensuring businesses stay ahead in a competitive market.
Achievements
Professional Milestones
Future Star Award
Awarded for pioneering new approaches and implementing a customer-centric strategy to achieve key targets.
High-Level Customer Engagement at AfricaCom
Strengthened partnerships with Sub-Saharan operators through high-level customer interactions, leading to improved network quality.
Safaricom Mini MWC
Led key discussions on 5G business success and affordable devices, driving a 200,000+ increase in 5G terminals and boosting site penetration.
AfricaCom Participation
Engaged in AfricaCom 2023 discussions on future telecom advancements and strategic industry collaborations.
MVP at Fort Irwin
Recognized as Best Team Leader and Learning MVP at Huawei’s Global Wireless Network Training in Shenzhen, China.
Botswana CTO FWA Engagements
Participated in 5G high-level design and business discussions, leading to the development of Botswana's 5G infrastructure.
Zimbabwe Mini MWC
Led discussions with Zimbabwe TelOne, NetOne, and Liquid Telecom on 5G business success, contributing to 5G development in Zimbabwe.
Kenya Safaricom FWA Expansion
Guided Safaricom’s Fixed Wireless Access business expansion, driving 5G adoption and improved customer experience.
Certifications
- Cyber Security for Service Works (Huawei)
- AWS Solution Architect (Diploma)
- Python Programming (Basic)
- Interconnecting CISCO Networking Devices (CCNA, Diploma)
- HCIA 5G
- Boundary Meters Installation and Commissioning (Hexing)
Testimonials
What Others Say
Francis is a remarkable professional who combines deep technical knowledge with excellent business acumen. His work in telecommunications infrastructure and network optimization has consistently demonstrated his ability to deliver high-impact solutions. His strategic thinking and problem-solving skills make him an invaluable asset to any technology initiative.
James Juma Sindani
Solution Architect at Rainforest Alliance
Working with Francis at Huawei has been exceptional. His expertise in 5G technologies and rural connectivity solutions is outstanding. He has a unique ability to translate complex technical requirements into practical business outcomes. His leadership in network planning and optimization projects has set new standards for excellence.
Raymond Kipng'etich
Solution Architect at Huawei Technologies
Francis's approach to product management and technical solutions is truly innovative. His understanding of both infrastructure and software development needs makes him a versatile professional. I've been particularly impressed by his ability to bridge the gap between technical capabilities and business requirements.
Nganga John
Golang and TypeScript Developer
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