Associate - Category Sourcing, Network Operations

About the role

This Associate role covers category sourcing for network operations within a global sourcing and supply chain function. You will manage end-to-end sourcing for network maintenance, managed services and L3 support, consolidate RFx demand, negotiate with suppliers and drive cost savings while keeping the selection process compliant.

Key responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end sourcing for network operations, including maintenance, managed services and L3 support
• Consolidate RFx demand and run sourcing events aligned with operational needs
• Turn technical and operational requirements into RFx and Statement of Work documents
• Evaluate supplier proposals on capability, compliance and cost-effectiveness
• Negotiate with suppliers to optimise service levels and reduce total cost of ownership
• Work with network operations teams so sourcing strategies match service delivery goals
• Support contract formulation and turn RFx outcomes into operational agreements
• Monitor supplier performance and support continuous improvement
• Share market intelligence on telecom vendors and pricing trends
• Take part in agile sprint planning and sourcing process improvements

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Telecom Engineering, Supply Chain or a related field; postgraduate qualification in Supply Chain preferred
• 3-5 years of experience in telecom network operations and/or procurement
• Proven sourcing experience for network maintenance, managed services and technical support
• Familiarity with telecom vendor ecosystems and pricing models
• Experience in large telecom groups or multinational telecom environments

Required skills

• RFx management and tendering (intermediate)
• Vendor evaluation and negotiation (intermediate)
• Contract and commercial management (beginner to intermediate)
• Telecom network operations knowledge (intermediate)
• Cost modelling and TCO analysis (beginner)
• ERP tools such as SAP, ARIBA and Oracle (intermediate)
• Preferred: CSCP, ITIL Foundation or equivalent, and PSM certifications