Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
Certification
Languages
Coursework
Membership Of Professional Associations
Major Accomplishments And Achievements
Personal Information
Awards
Timeline
Generic

Srdjan Slijepcevic

Novi Sad,Serbia

Summary

Accomplished professional with 20 years of program/project management and consultancy experience in the telecommunications industry. Skilled in managing projects in multivendor environments, including rollouts, data centers, transmission, FTTX, power upgrades, large-scale projects, and FTK concept. Developed strong interpersonal skills through work in diverse cultural and work environments in Africa and the Middle East. Proven track record of fostering strong client relationships, delivering tailored solutions, and achieving project objectives. Expert consultant with a background in providing strategic solutions and driving impactful results for clients, demonstrating high standards of team collaboration and adaptability to changing demands. Specializes in project management, data analysis, and client relationship management to ensure consistent reliability and deliver measurable outcomes tailored to client needs. Knowledgeable [Desired Position] with proven background in consulting, delivering strategic insights and effective solutions to clients. Successfully led multiple projects, enhancing operational efficiency and driving business growth while demonstrating expertise in problem-solving and client relationship management. Consulting professional with a strong track record in delivering impactful business solutions, adept at strategic planning, data analysis, and process improvement. Known for fostering team collaboration and adapting to evolving project needs while bringing expertise in client relations, problem-solving, and driving measurable results.

Overview

17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Independent Senior Consultant

HUAWEI - Ikeja, Lagos
Lagos, Nigeria
10.2022 - 04.2024
  • Ensure that Data Centre is built and managed to excellence to the satisfaction of the Client as well as business and strategic objectives of Huawei Nigeria
  • Design process: HLD, LLD and Client acceptance including activities related to Tier certification
  • Coordination and activities to obtain building permit
  • Established strong partnerships with various government authorities and local communities to expedite delivery timely and smoothly while navigating potential obstacles - specific for Nigeria environment
  • Participation in Contract finalization
  • Define project schedules, allocate resources and monitor progress
  • Ensure appropriate governance around this process and manage proper communication with multidisciplinary stakeholders from Client side and Huawei
  • Communication and reporting management
  • Collaborated closely with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of services and technologies.
  • Delivered high-quality results within budget constraints by effectively managing resources and time.
  • Presented findings and recommendations at client meetings, effectively conveying complex information in an easily digestible format.
  • Improved operational efficiency through the implementation of best practices and innovative solutions.
  • Evaluated potential risks associated with proposed solutions, implementing mitigation strategies as necessary.
  • Led team meetings to review progress, address challenges, and set goals for continued success.
  • Projects description: New MTN switch and data center Ikeja, Lagos (1600 racks, Energy Centre 7 MW, Tier III, Tier IV standard)

Senior Implementation Consultant FTTX

HUAWEI - Hungary
10.2019 - 01.2020
  • To ensure FTTX is built and managed to excellence within budget, resources and to the satisfaction of the Client as well as business and strategic objectives and intent of Huawei Hungary
  • To ensure appropriate governance around this process in frame of contract.
  • Communication and reporting management
  • Developed strong relationships and close cooperation with clients, vendors, and other partners to ensure successful project implementation and loyalty
  • Established strong partnerships with various government authorities and local communities to expedite delivery timely and smoothly while navigating potential obstacles.
  • Attained a high level of client satisfaction, maintaining open lines of communication to address concerns promptly during the implementation process.
  • Managed risk effectively by conducting thorough assessments and proactively addressing potential challenges in various stages of project implementation
  • Optimized implementation workflows, regularly reviewing and updating standard operating procedures to maintain efficiency.
  • Projects description: FTTX (Fiber rollout) – participation in final stage due to difficulties and history of special issues during previous 3 years of implementation

Senior Independent Network Consultant

MTN Nigeria Communications Ltd. - Lagos
02.2017 - 08.2019
  • Project brief preparation, tender process and technical evaluation
  • Developed custom solutions based upon client's strict requirements
  • Streamlined FTK concept and project management processes, improving efficiency and reducing overall costs
  • Facilitated workshops to identify pain points, establish goals, and define actionable steps towards achieving desired outcomes.
  • Collaborated with internal teams to develop customized solutions that addressed unique needs and specific requirements
  • Ensure key infrastructure-sites are built by Tower Co and other infrastructure providers to the satisfaction of business objectives and strategic Intent of MTN Nigeria
  • Managed to excellence within budget, available resources and appropriate governance around this process in frame of contract.
  • Data alignment
  • Communication and reporting management
  • Projects description: 3 New MTN switch and data centers: MTN switch&data center Ikoyi – Lagos, New MTN switch &data center Port Harcourt, New MTN switch center VGC – Lagos
  • Projects description: Managing rollout and relations with Tower Companies/Providers: IHS, ATC

General Manager CPG (Capital Program Group)

MTN South Africa - Johannesburg, South Africa
Johannesburg, South Africa
01.2015 - 06.2016
  • To ensure key infrastructure roll out and build is led and managed to excellence within budget, resources and to the satisfaction of Business Objectives and Strategic Intent of MTN South Africa
  • Create & manage project plans
  • Define project schedules
  • Allocate resources and monitor progress
  • Formulated policies and procedures to streamline operations.
  • Align project objectives with stakeholder goals, and make sure project team is clear on objectives
  • Lead process of issue identification and resolution
  • Manage risk tracking process
  • Manage and clearly identify change in scope
  • Monitored financial performance, set budgets and controlled expenses to provide financial stability in the budget frame during Project implementation
  • Managed budget implementations, employee evaluations, and contract details.
  • Lead project meetings with multidisciplinary stakeholders
  • Cultivated strong relationships with clients, vendors, and partners to ensure long-term success and loyalty
  • Coordinate and manage project in a multi-vendor environment. Vendors (OEM's): Huawei, Ericsson, ZTE, Aviat
  • Implemented robust inventory management systems to optimize stock levels and minimize waste/costs associated with excess product storage.
  • Interacted well with customers to build connections and nurture relationships.
  • Reported issues to higher management with great detail.
  • Managed a diverse team of professionals, fostering a positive work environment and high employee satisfaction.
  • Projects description: 2G/ 3G/ LTE Network rollout, Power upgrade of the sites, Transmission upgrade and fibre rollout (FTTH, FTTS), Project name “18-month plan” – value for described above app 1,6 bill USD

General Manager NID (Network Implementation Department)

MTN Nigeria Communications Ltd.
02.2013 - 12.2014
  • Company Overview: Projects description: 2G/ 3G Network rollout (1837 2G&3G greenfield, 928 Colo), Core expansion, Power upgrade of the sites, Transmission upgrade, Fiber (Metro, Backbone, FTTS), Project value for described above app 1,6 bill USD
  • To ensure Key infrastructure roll out and build is led and managed to excellence within budget, resources and to the satisfaction of Business Objectives and Strategic Intent of MTN Nigeria
  • To ensure appropriate governance around this process such as:
  • Create & manage project plans
  • Define project schedules, allocate resources and monitor progress
  • Align project objectives with stakeholder goals, and make sure project team is clear on objectives
  • Managed budget development, forecasting, and financial reporting processes to track progress towards organizational objectives accurately.
  • Lead process of issue identification and resolution
  • Manage risk tracking process
  • Manage and clearly identify change in scope
  • Lead project meetings with multidisciplinary stakeholders
  • Cultivated strong relationships with clients, vendors, and partners to ensure long-term success and loyalty.
  • Projects description: Infrastructure transfer to Tower Co (IHS) - 8000 towers
  • Project “Eagle” team member - head of one of workstreams. Sale and handover of MTN Nigeria tower infrastructure to IHS (tower provider)
  • Monitored financial performance, set budgets and controlled expenses to provide financial stability and long-term organizational growth.
  • Managed budget implementations, employee evaluations, and contract details.
  • Formulated policies and procedures to streamline operations.
  • Increased overall company efficiency by streamlining operations and implementing innovative managerial strategies.
  • Executed strategic plans for business growth and expansion, resulting in increased market share.
  • Maximized operational excellence mentoring personnel on management principles, industry practices, and company procedures.
  • Implemented robust inventory management systems to optimize stock levels and minimize waste/costs associated with excess product storage.
  • Fostered culture of continuous improvement, introducing regular review sessions that boosted team performance and morale.
  • Projects description: 2G/ 3G Network rollout (1837 2G&3G greenfield, 928 Colo), Core expansion, Power upgrade of the sites, Transmission upgrade, Fiber (Metro, Backbone, FTTS), Project value for described above app 1,6 bill USD

General Manager CPG (CXO)

MTN Sudan
04.2010 - 01.2013
  • Company Overview: Projects description: 2G Network rollout 2010/2011 – 496 sites, 2G Network rollout 2012 – 284 sites in all Sudan regions (including Darfur and South Sudan), 3G rollout 2012 – 313 sites, Network modernization 469 sites (indoor to outdoor and power upgrade – live network)
  • To ensure Key infrastructure roll out and build is led and managed to excellence within budget, resources and to the satisfaction of Business Objectives and Strategic Intent of MTN SUDAN
  • To ensure appropriate governance around this process
  • Create & manage project plans
  • Define project schedules, allocate resources and monitor progress
  • Align project objectives with stakeholder goals, and make sure project team is clear on objectives
  • Lead process of issue identification and resolution
  • Manage risk tracking process
  • Manage and clearly identify change in scope
  • Lead project meetings with multidisciplinary stakeholders
  • Managed budget implementations, employee evaluations, and contract details.
  • Cultivated strong relationships with clients, vendors, and partners to ensure long-term success and loyalty
  • Coordinate and manage project in multi-vendor environment. Vendors (OEM's): Huawei, Ericsson, ZTE
  • Projects description: 2G Network rollout 2010/2011 – 496 sites, 2G Network rollout 2012 – 284 sites in all Sudan regions (including Darfur and South Sudan), 3G rollout 2012 – 313 sites, Network modernization 469 sites (indoor to outdoor and power upgrade – live network)

National Project Manager NW Roll-out

MTNIrancell
01.2007 - 03.2010
  • Company Overview: Project description: Period January 2007 – August 2009, Vendor: HUAWEI. GSM Network rollout: BSS rollout, BSS expansion and upgrade, Phase 0 to Phase 2: 975 sites, Phase 3: 241 sites, Phase 4-7(sites 2009/10): 573 sites
  • Period January 2007 – August 2009, Vendor: HUAWEI. GSM Network rollout: BSS rollout, BSS expansion and upgrade, Phase 0 to Phase 2: 975 sites, Phase 3: 241 sites, Phase 4-7(sites 2009/10): 573 sites
  • Period: August 2009 – March 2010, Vendor: NSN (Nokia Siemens Networks) BSS rollout, BSS expansion and upgrade) . Managing last stage of project and difficult sites in Tehran
  • Ensuring project implementation, time, cost and quality wise
  • To ensure appropriate governance around this process
  • Improved overall project performance by identifying and resolving bottlenecks in processes.
  • Monitored project progress, identified risks and took corrective action as needed.
  • Analyzed project performance data to identify areas of improvement.
  • Managed risk effectively to minimize potential issues throughout the project lifecycle
  • Create and maintain collaborative work environment, facilitating smooth coordination with Government and Tehran municipality authorities
  • Project description: Period January 2007 – August 2009, Vendor: HUAWEI. GSM Network rollout: BSS rollout, BSS expansion and upgrade, Phase 0 to Phase 2: 975 sites, Phase 3: 241 sites, Phase 4-7(sites 2009/10): 573 sites

Education

Civil Engineering

University of Novi Sad - Faculty of Tech Science
06.1995

Skills

  • Project delivery
  • Risk management assessment
  • Governance oversight
  • Goal-oriented planning
  • Program management across multiple vendors
  • Stakeholder collaboration
  • Customer relationship development
  • Monitoring performance metrics
  • Multicultural team management
  • Financial Management & Budget Oversight
  • Cross-functional collaboration
  • Operational & Process Improvement:

Websites

Certification

  • Responsible Contract Engineer License, Serbian Chamber of Professional Engineers, 2005
  • Responsible Designer for Building Structures in the Field of Building Constructions License, Serbian Chamber of Professional Engineers, 2005

Languages

Serbian
English

Coursework

  • FM200 Modular Data Center product training and UPS5000-E product Introduction and Deployment training, 2018, Huawei University, Shenzhen, China
  • Crucial Conversation Training a course in best practice skills to successfully handling high-stakes interactions, 2014, VITALSmarts
  • Management principles and practices course, 2006, Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology of the University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa

Membership Of Professional Associations

Serbian chamber of Professional Engineers

Major Accomplishments And Achievements

  • Spearheaded telecom infrastructure projects valued at over $1.6B across Africa and the Middle East. Boldly engineered large-scale network rollouts in intricate, multivendor environments—drastically reducing delivery times while boosting operational efficiency and service reliability.
  • Revolutionized data centre design by pioneering the Full Turn Key (FTK) model at MTN Nigeria and as a Huawei Consultant. Led the development of the New MTN Nigeria Data Centre (2022–2024), featuring 1,600 racks and a 7MW energy centre (Phase 1 completed)—ensuring strict adherence to Tier III/IV standards for mission-critical operations. Additionally, delivered three cutting-edge MTN switch and data centres: Ikoyi – Lagos; Port Harcourt (delivered within 9 months); and VGC – Lagos.
  • Mastered expansive network deployment by managing robust 2G/3G rollouts across challenging regions—including MTN Irancell (Iran), MTN Sudan, MTN Nigeria, and MTN South Africa. Directed critical power upgrades, transmission enhancements, and comprehensive fiber network deployments (FTTX, FTTH, Metro, Backbone, and FTTS), ensuring a resilient state-of-the-art connectivity framework.
  • Exemplified hands-on leadership at every stage—from conceptual planning and meticulous design to flawless implementation and final client acceptance. This proactive approach redefines FTK management, proving it is far more than a supervisory role—it is strategic orchestration that ensures seamless, high-stakes project delivery.
  • Built robust governance frameworks and maintained crystal-clear, strategic communication with C-suite executives and diverse stakeholders. Inspired and led multicultural, multidisciplinary teams across Africa, the Middle East, and emerging markets, consistently delivering complex projects on time and within budget.
  • Played a pivotal role as a key team member in orchestrating the seamless strategic handover of 8,000 towers at MTN Nigeria, ensuring a smooth transition and unwavering operational continuity.

Personal Information

  • Title: Strategic Program & Project Management Consultant | Telecommunications Infrastructure Expert
  • Nationality: Serbian

Awards

  • Certificate of Appreciation for valuable contribution to Irancell Telecommunication Services Co., 2010
  • Huawei Honor Certificate for valuable contribution and strong management capability, 2010
  • Team award for Best Project Plan of Execution at the Management principles and practices course, 2006

Timeline

Independent Senior Consultant

HUAWEI - Ikeja, Lagos
10.2022 - 04.2024

Senior Implementation Consultant FTTX

HUAWEI - Hungary
10.2019 - 01.2020

Senior Independent Network Consultant

MTN Nigeria Communications Ltd. - Lagos
02.2017 - 08.2019

General Manager CPG (Capital Program Group)

MTN South Africa - Johannesburg, South Africa
01.2015 - 06.2016

General Manager NID (Network Implementation Department)

MTN Nigeria Communications Ltd.
02.2013 - 12.2014

General Manager CPG (CXO)

MTN Sudan
04.2010 - 01.2013

National Project Manager NW Roll-out

MTNIrancell
01.2007 - 03.2010

Civil Engineering

University of Novi Sad - Faculty of Tech Science