Head of Data and Digital Innovation

Head of Data and Digital Innovation

We are a leading independent telecoms infrastructure company, with one of the most extensive tower portfolios across Africa and the Middle East. Our business model promotes tower infrastructure sharing and enables mobile network operators (MNOs) to deliver mobile connectivity more quickly, reliably, cost-effectively and with a lower carbon footprint. In turn, this supports the expansion and quality of mobile connectivity, driving sustainable development in our markets.

What we do
We build, acquire, lease-up and operate telecommunications towers that can accommodate and power the needs of multiple tenants. Our tenants are the major Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and we serve them across nine high-growth markets (8 in Africa + Oman in the Middle East). Our purpose, mission and sustainable business strategy are underpinned by our values of integrity, partnership and excellence.

Overview
Reporting to the Group Director of Digital Innovation, you will spearhead the digital transformation of Helios Towers by leading multiple development teams to create innovative business software. The role is strategically outward-facing, actively engaging with key technical leaders across the business to digitalise critical departmental processes. Leveraging advanced expertise in AI and Machine Learning, this position will harness extensive business data—such as site power systems, equipment performance, and structural data—to optimize operations, drive efficiency, and create new revenue-generating digital products and revenue streams.

Role Responsibility
As the Head of Data and Digital Innovation, you will be responsible for:

• Supporting the integration of AI tools such as Copilot, ChatGPT Enterprise, QLICK, and Python-driven analytics into Helios Towers’ business processes.
• Leading the development and implementation of digital platforms that improve field operational efficiency by over 30%.
• Assessing and enhancing business applications to ensure seamless integration with the existing technology stack.
• Managing cross-functional collaboration to align technology solutions with strategic business needs.
• Ensuring robust digital governance and cybersecurity frameworks are in place to mitigate risks associated with digital transformation initiatives.
• Partnering with operations to develop and implement digital platforms that improve field operational efficiency.
• Overseeing the enhancement of business applications and ensuring seamless integration with the existing technology stack.
• Acting as the bridge between the Digital Transformation teams and business units, ensuring that technology solutions are aligned with strategic business needs.
• Ensuring robust digital governance and cybersecurity frameworks are in place to mitigate risks associated with digital transformation initiatives.
• Leading, mentoring, and developing a high-performing Digital Innovation team.

Requirements for the Role
To succeed in the role, you will be/will have:

• An advanced degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Professional certifications in Scrum methodologies (e.g., Certified Scrum Master/Product Owner) and/or solution architecture frameworks.
• Significant leadership experience managing software development teams utilizing Scrum methodology, with demonstrated success in managing multiple Scrum teams concurrently.
• Proven track record in successfully driving organizational digitisation and process innovation through strategic collaboration with cross-functional technical leaders.
• Background in leveraging emerging technologies such as AI/ML, IoT, cloud computing, and automation platforms.
• Demonstrated expertise in data governance frameworks, business intelligence tools, and process automation.
• Hands-on experience in full-stack application development, with a strong technical background in software engineering.
• Deep expertise in AI and Machine Learning, with a demonstrated history of translating complex data sets into actionable insights and profitable digital products.
• Experience in creating, deploying, and scaling software solutions that optimize business processes and operational efficiency, specifically leveraging business and infrastructure data.
• Strong understanding of modern solution architecture principles, ensuring digital products and systems are robust, secure, scalable, and maintainable.

Desired Skills

• Strategic Leadership & Digital Transformation
• Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, adept at influencing stakeholders at all organizational levels.
• Passionate about innovation, with a continuous-improvement mindset.
• Highly motivated leader capable of inspiring and developing teams to achieve outstanding results.

Benefits

• Competitive basic salary
• Bonus
• Life insurance
• Medical insurance
• Relocation asistance (if not already in the UAE)
• LTIP (subject to RemCo approval)

Please submit your applications by 04/05/2025.

Helios Towers is committed to promoting equal opportunities in employment. You and any job applicants will receive equal treatment regardless of age, disability, marital status, pregnancy or maternity, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief.