Network Services Strategy Manager

Role Overview

• Develop a Network Strategy and technology roadmap for Vodafone portfolio of Network Services: with a key focus of building Vodafone On-Net capabilities as well as optimising 3rd party solutions.
• Build innovative and competitive market winning Network Services customer solutions: that leverages the Vodafone network capability and technology roadmap that is aligned to the Vodafone Network Services strategy.
• Utilise and propose Network Services tools that will automate and enhance the feasibility and design of customer network solutions.
• Provide a central point of contact for areas of the business, key customer stakeholders and third-party providers.
• Manage customer expectations at all times whilst also managing all relevant vendors & stakeholders, both within Vodafone (local and Group) and partners/3rd parties.
• Ensure that all third parties and suppliers adhere to their contractual obligations.
• Setup of regular review meeting across all Network Service providers to ensure clear lines of communication across all Network Services activities and responsibilities including (but not limited to) SLA reporting, compliance and certification, project reporting, cost control, incident management, routine and unplanned maintenance schedules etc.
• Provide Network Services expertise to internal teams including but not limited to Sales, Solution Design, Engineering, Technology, Support, Supply Chain, Finance, Operations & IT etc.
• Map out and understand the vendors, the costs and the contracts that make up the estate.
• Ensure that all supplier requests for quotes and POs are valid from a technical, contractual and market value perspective.
• Gain approval from finance teams and raise POs as appropriate.
• Manage Network Service related monthly PO’s and goods receipting.
• Develop a ‘to-be’ process and RACI from order to cash, to improve governance and control and embed business rules that align to the overarching strategies being developed.
• Provide key inputs into Vodafone’s multi-data services strategy.
• Ensure that the local Network Services strategy is aligned to group strategy.
• Present Mid and Long-term Network Services Strategy to senior business management.
• Develop business cases aligned to strategy for inclusion in overall business strategy.
• Work closely with the account team and the customer to understand their stated and underlying business needs to ensure that the Vodafone bid meets these requirements, and the value proposition is fully understood.

Requirements

• Degree in Engineering, Telecommunications, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline desirable.
• Post‑graduate qualification desirable (e.g., MSc, MBA).
• Relevant industry certifications (Cisco, Juniper, ITIL, PRINCE2, cloud/security).
• Experience in network services technologies including design, routing, switching, SD‑WAN.
• Ability to build technology roadmaps and long‑term strategies.
• Understanding of on‑net/off‑net architectures and 3rd‑party interconnect models.
• Experience with automation tools and data‑driven design.
• Success in developing and implementing network strategy.
• Strong commercial acumen in contract negotiation and vendor management.
• Ability to create business cases and influence senior leadership.
• Experience across multi‑disciplinary teams (Networks, Group Tech, Finance, Sales, Ops).
• Knowledge of SLA governance, compliance, audits, incident/problem management.
• Experience defining to‑be processes, governance and RACI frameworks.

Tech Stack

• Cloud
• Switching

Benefits

• Competitive Salary
• Flexible working (times and location) is part of our culture where your hours can facilitate your personal work-life balance
• Generous Employer Pension contribution
• Free Phone Bill – When you join the team, your phone bill is on us! You will also receive mobile phone purchasing discounts
• Learning and Development – We provide extensive training to all of our employees so they can progress in their careers! There is also the Vodafone University where our employees can gain incredible skills!
• Exclusive Family and Friends Discounts – Receive additional discounts for you, your Family and Friends on Vodafone Products!
• 23 days annual leave and 3 charity days off – PLUS a dedicated day off for your birthday
• Access to our Wellness centre including free access to our Gym, health and wellness centre and external practitioners