Robert B. Whitted, PMP
** ******* **. ( Cataula, GA 31804 ( 706-***-**** (
abme6x@r.postjobfree.com
Network Engineering & Operations Manager
Network Engineering / Project Management / Business Strategy
Accomplished Telecommunications Manager offering more than seventeen years
of key experience. Practiced in successful deployment and management of
business critical telecommunication networks and peripheral components.
Possesses first rate communication skills to collaborate on all business
levels while effectively directing systems, processes and operating
procedures. Very personable and self-motivated professional with the
versatility to work among diverse groups and handle complex problems
effectively. Solid leadership skills; able to build and guide top-
performing teams.
Project Planning, Execution and Local & Remote Personnel and Asset
Leadership Management
Large Scale Network Engineering Budget Preparation/Administration
and Management
Relationship Building Disaster Recovery and Contingency
Planning
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
PROJECT MANAGER, 2010 - Present
ERICSSON SERVICES - Columbus, GA
Simultaneously manages multiple projects within a fast-paced, performance
driven environment. Currently in the planning phase of a project that will
modify wireless cell sites throughout North America for Sprint / Nextel.
Also in the planning phase of a wireless RF Optimization project that will
improve network performance for Sprint / Nextel and help Ericsson achieve
specific Service Level Metrics. Lastly, in a support role on a National T1
Deployment project that's currently in the execution phase.
. Foster teamwork throughout each project; partner with cross functional
internal departments, management staff, and customers.
. Setup and facilitate project meetings; analyze complex data and report
on it; help define strategic objectives and lead project team through
project closure.
. Update project documentation, prepare easy-to-read project reports,
and maintain well-documented project status spreadsheets.
FIELD SERVICES MANAGER, 2006 - 2010
ERICSSON SERVICES / SPRINT / NEXTEL - Columbus, GA
Performs multifaceted role as Field Services Manager overseeing wireless
cells sites throughout southern Georgia and Alabama and core switching in
South Carolina. Currently manages a group of eleven direct reports, tasked
with ensuring system continuity and optimal uptime for wireless and
wireline customers throughout the Southeast. Is responsible for the hiring,
training, mentoring, performance appraisals and career development for
workgroup. Environment consists of 459 wireless cell sites, a core
switching center, and a warehouse location. Actively tracks network reports
and maintains "best ever" network performance. Frequently travels to
offsite work locations to facilitate the installation, maintenance,
upgrade, and / or repair of various applications and / or equipment.
Project manages all projects as they are ready for deployment through work
area.
Key Accomplishments:
. Managed modernization project, tasked with the replacement / upgrade
of all wireless base stations throughout South Georgia and South
Alabama area. Completed the project ahead of schedule.
. Managed the launch of Rev-A EVDO service throughout South Georgia and
South Alabama area ahead of project schedule.
. Created on-call plan for the area that minimized overtime cost and
maximized productivity for workgroups throughout the Southeast.
. Successfully transitioned the wireless network from Enterprise
Communications to Sprint / Nextel following Sprint / Nextel's
acquisition of the company.
NETWORK OPERATIONS MANAGER, 1998 - 2006
ENTERPRISE COMMUNICATIONS (Sprint PCS Affiliate) - Columbus, GA
Directed all aspects of technology, including wireless cell sites, mobile
switching center and information technology. Held full management
responsibility over department, including hiring, training, team
performance and career development for workgroup of fifteen employees.
Assisted Chief Operating Officer and Controller in budget preparation and
management for both operating and capital budgets. Negotiated pricing and
terms of contracts with most vendors, including BellSouth, Sprint,
CenturyTel, Interstate FiberNet, Crown Castle Communications, Lucent /
Alcatel, etc... Worked closely with entire leadership team to create a
viable business case from the point of securing financing for the business
to a thriving and successful business.
Key Accomplishments:
. Oversaw the design, installation, and maintenance of the first Sprint
PCS affiliate to launch wireless service. Was able to accomplish these
tasks under budget and ahead of schedule.
. Effectively managed network operations cost center to contribute of
the overall success of the business.
. Continually monitored, evaluated and engineered capital assets to
ensure the best use of limited capital spending.
. Led the sale of tower assets to Lattice Communications, LLC in 2003
for $7.2M.
. Assisted in the sale of Enterprise Communications to Sprint / Nextel
in 2006.
OUTSIDE PLANT SUPERVISOR, 1997 - 1998
PALMER WIRELESS - Columbus, GA
Managed four RF Technicians in the construction, optimization, and
maintenance of Nortel AMPS and TDMA cellular equipment, Nortel microwave
equipment, and ancillary equipment such as power supplies, generators,
tower lights, antenna lines, antennas, etc...
SWITCH TECHNICIAN, 1996 - 1997
PALMER WIRELESS - Columbus, GA
Maintained translations, monitored, and repaired a Nortel Switch, Glenayre
Voice Mail Platform, Rockwell DACs, Telco Systems Channel Banks, and ITT D4
Channel Banks. Worked closely with Microwave Technicians, RF Technicians,
and MIS department in their maintenance and repair of network elements.
RF TECHNICIAN, 1995 - 1996
PALMER WIRELESS - Dublin, GA
Installed, optimized, maintained and repaired Nortel AMPS and TDMA cell
sites along with the ancillary equipment such as power supplies, microwave
equipment, generators, tower lights, antennas, antenna lines etc... Worked
closely with the construction department in all new construction. Became
very proficient in troubleshooting cell site equipment, telco circuitry,
lines, and antennas.
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE, 1994 - 1995
PALMER WIRELESS - Dublin, GA
Achieved a large client base through cold calling, business analysis, and
demonstration of products and support benefits. During the six months in
this position, achieved or exceeded goals in each period, significantly
increasing the overall growth of the company.
INSTALLER / TECHNICIAN, 1994
PALMER WIRELESS - Milledgeville, GA
Installed and repaired cellular phones and accessories throughout central
Georgia. Built a mobile repair center and traveled to customer locations to
better serve customers.
INSTALLER / TECHNICIAN, 1992 - 1994
MILLEDGEVILLE COMMUNICATIONS - Milledgeville, GA
Performed component level repair and installation of two-way radio, paging,
and trunking systems throughout central Georgia.
EDUCATION
Master's of Business Administration, 2006 ( Troy University - Phenix City,
AL
Bachelor of Science in Business Management, 2005 ( University of Phoenix -
Phoenix, AZ
Electronics Communications, 1991 ( Athens Area Technical Institute -
Athens, GA
CREDENTIALS
PMI - Project Management Certification (PMP)
Federal Communications Commissions - License with Ship Radar Endorsement
Extensive Lucent & Nortel Training