Umer Aftab Rana

Technology Strategy and Solution Architect @ NextGComm

About

I bring extensive experience in delivering innovative network solutions, having successfully contributed in 12 international projects across global telecom operators. Currently, I specialize in 4G/5G network design, performance optimization, and CEX enhancement services for Etisalat Saudi Arabia (Mobily), leveraging advanced RAN features and AI/ML-driven strategies. Previously, I served as an LTE Expert for Turkcell, focusing on LTE Advanced technologies, including multi-carrier CA and VoLTE implementation. Additionally, I contributed as a Senior RF Optimization Consultant at Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd., driving RF project management and network performance optimization for GSM, UMTS, LTE, and WiMAX systems. Key Specialties: ✅ Advanced 4G/5G Network Solutions – Delivering next-gen connectivity and performance using latest 3GPP RAN Standard release. ✅ Strategic CapEx & OpEx Optimization – Driving cost efficiencies through innovative approaches ✅ Network Analytics & Insights – Turning data into actionable intelligence ✅ AI/ML-Driven Optimization – Enhancing network performance through data-driven strategies

Country

City

Saudi Arabia

Industry

Telecommunications

Skill

Internet of Things (IoT), Machine Learning, Data Analysis, Ericsson Private 5G, OpenAI, 5G, 5G New Radio (NR), Radio Frequency (RF), insight, UMTS, Radio Network Planning, GSM, LTE, WiMAX, Optimization, GPRS, CDMA, WCDMA, 3G, HSPA

Experience

Technology Strategy and Solution Architect

NextGComm

2026 - Present

United States

Principal RAN Engineer (Design, Network Strategy, Optimization, CEX & Network Analyst)

Mobily

2017-11 - Present · 8 yrs 11 mos

Saudi Arabia

Group Owner

Telecom Network Professionals - 4G/5G/6G Mobile, 3GPP, AI-Native, Autonomous, ML, IoT, Satellite NTN

2007-3 - Present · 19 yrs 7 mos

https://www.linkedin.com/groups/3994934/ Founder & Community Lead | Telecom Network Professionals Built and scaled a 66,000+ member telecom community focused on deep technical expertise. Leading conversations that matter: - Real network performance strategy, network optimization challenges and the evolution of 3GPP standards. - Actively shape industry thinking by translating complex standards into actionable engineering insights. Responsibilities include: • Setting the technical direction and editorial voice of the community • Publishing and curating high-impact content on 4G/5G networks and AI-driven optimization • Challenging conventional approaches with data-driven perspectives • Connecting engineers with advanced career pathways in architecture and emerging technologies • Establishing the group as a signal-driven platform in a noise-heavy ecosystem

Senior VoLTE and LTE -A RNPO Consultant ( LTE RF Expert)

Turkcell

2016-3 - 2017-10 · 1 yr 8 mos

Turkey

MBB 3G LTE RF Planning and Optimization Consultant

Huawei

2014-5 - 2016-3 · 1 yr 11 mos

China

Sr. RF Engineer(Global Network Service Center)

ZTE Corporation

2007-5 - 2014-5 · 7 yrs 1 mo

China HQ

Projects: 1) KCELL- TeliaSonera (Kazakhstan) 2) Banglalion (Bangladesh) 3) BWDC Ollo (Bangladesh) 4) Banglalink- Orascom (Bangladesh) 5) DiGi- Telenor Subsidiary (Malaysia) 6) Telenor (Pakistan) 7) Alltel (Kazakhstan) 8) ZONG- CMPAK (Pakistan) Worked in Global Network Services Center as Sr. RF Engineer on GSM, UMTS, LTE, CDMA, WiMAX technologies. The main responsibilities of this position included: * To Provide RF Planning, Optimization and Performance technical support and to initiate, execute & deliver Corporate or Division level project. * Setup the trial projects for the performance benchmark. Liaison with ZTE product R&D dept. to solve complex issues especially during trails of new product or RAN features in trial project. * Providing the detail Radio Network Design proposals during initial Bidding process. * Negotiate the scope of work and the Project Network KPI, single site, cluster level, network level acceptance criteria * RF Optimization Services experience on GSM UMTS LTE Technologies * Providing methodologies for the performance & service evaluations. * Setting up the local office delivery team, recruiting engineers, and providing technical training for skill enhancement.