Global Category Manager, Customer Operations

at  Vodafone

COMPANY

At the Vodafone Procurement Company (VPC), we are more than just a procurement organization; we’re a global powerhouse and a center of excellence, driving innovation and delivering world-class services across Vodafone and its markets. Based in the vibrant hub of Luxembourg, VPC is at the heart of Vodafone’s €25bn global spending, influencing decisions that shape the future of procurement. Since our inception in 2008, we’ve not only transformed Vodafone’s procurement strategy but have also set new standards in the industry. We’re proud to partner with both internal and external clients, leveraging cutting-edge digital practices and global expertise to deliver strategic procurement solutions that are future-proof.
At VPC, you’re not just taking a job; you’re joining a movement. You’ll be part of a forward-thinking team where your ideas and expertise will make a real difference. With us, you’ll have the opportunity to influence global procurement strategies, work on high-impact projects, and be recognized for your contributions in a dynamic, innovative environment.

NOT A PERFECT FIT?

Worried that you don’t meet all the desired criteria exactly? At Vodafone we are passionate about Inclusion for All and creating a workplace where everyone can thrive, whatever their personal or professional background. If you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t align exactly with every part of the job description, we encourage you to apply as you may be the right candidate for this role or another role, and our recruitment team can help you see how your skills fit in.

WHO WE ARE

You may have heard of Vodafone - We’re a leading Telecommunications company in Europe and Africa. But you might not know that we are continuously investing in new technologies to improve the lives of millions of customers, businesses, and people around the world, creating a better future for everyone.
As part of our global family, whether Vodafone, Vodacom, or _VOIS, you’ll feel a sense of pride and purpose as you contribute to our culture of innovation. We pursue equality of opportunity and inclusion for all candidates through our employment policies and practices. We recognize and celebrate the importance of diversity and inclusivity in our workspace and we do not tolerate any form of discrimination especially related to but not limited to race, color, age, veteran status, gender identification, sexual orientation, pregnancy, ethnicity, disability, religion, political affiliation, trade union membership, nationality, Indigenous status, medical condition, HIV status, social origin, cultural background, social, or marital status.

Are you ready to shape the future of Vodafone’s global procurement strategy? As a Category Manager for Customer Operations with Vodafone Procurement & Connectivity company, you’ll be at the forefront of managing a key category with an annual spend of ~€1 billion. In this dynamic role, you’ll spearhead the execution of high-impact global projects, driving innovation and efficiency across our Customer Operations category. Working within an established, central procurement team, you’ll report directly to the Principal Category Manager for Customer Operations. You’ll be a key player in our agile project team, collaborating closely with senior stakeholders and local Customer Operations and Supply Chain Management teams. This role offers the unique opportunity to lead the management of complex contracts and commercial models, requiring top-notch project management skills.
If you have a proven track record of successfully managing complex global categories, RFPs, and contracts, and you’re eager to make a tangible impact on a global scale, this is the role for you. Join us and be part of a cross-functional team that’s driving the future of procurement at Vodafone.

Your responsibilities:

• Drive and execute global sourcing strategies to achieve key outcomes.
• Manage sourcing activities and contracts up to €1 billion.
• Oversee ongoing contract management, ensuring compliance and addressing issues like service credits, disputes, and performance reviews.
• Build strong partnerships with local COPS and SCM teams, emphasizing cross-functional teamwork.
• Develop long-term relationships with COPS agencies, driving value, quality, and innovation.
• Stay ahead of industry trends and continuously implement best practices to enhance efficiency and customer experience.
• Innovate and refine category-specific contracts and commercial models in collaboration with Legal, SCM, and COPS teams.
• Drive technological and process improvements for effective category management.
• Manage complex sourcing projects, including pricing, commercial, and legal negotiations.
• Help achieve key financial targets, including centralized spending, savings, and working capital improvements.
• Maintain accurate global COPS spending, vendor, and contract data, providing strategic insights through in-depth analytics to strengthen Vodafone’s market position.