Principal Procurement Manager, Customer Operations

**Company**:
The Vodafone Procurement and Connectivity Company (VPC) in Luxembourg is a vital part of the Vodafone Group, driving our ambition to connect for a better future. At VPC, we source products and services globally to ensure our business operates at its peak performance. Our mission is to support our people in delivering on our strategy, creating a brand cherished by customers, communities, partners, and colleagues alike.

We believe in empowering our team members, encouraging them to take ownership and maximize their diverse talents. Continuous learning and growth are at the heart of our culture, fostering both personal and professional development. If you're a strategic thinker passionate about innovation and leadership in the telecom industry, we want to hear from you. Join us at Vodafone and be a key player in our journey to reshape the future of global carrier buying

We get it done, together.

**What you’ll do**:
As a Principal Category Manager - Customer Operations (COPS) with Vodafone Procurement Company (VPC), you will take on a leadership role, driving the strategy for global procurement within Customer Operations. With direct oversight of a high-performing team of 4-5 Category Managers or Specialists, you will lead the execution of key projects in a category where Vodafone’s annual expenditure is ~€1bn. In this role, you will regularly engage with senior stakeholders across Vodafone’s global markets, including Consumer Business Unit Directors and Heads of Customer Operations, while collaborating closely with local Supply Chain Management (SCM) teams. You’ll also engage with third-party businesses to negotiate complex commercial contracts, develop innovative solutions, and build strong partnerships. This is a leadership position that will challenge you to manage complex, high-value global contracts and lead cross-functional virtual teams. If you are an inspiring leader, looking for an opportunity to make a global impact, this role is for you. Your responsibilities:
**Strategic Sourcing Leadership**
- Lead the global strategy and deployment of sourcing initiatives within the Customer Operations category.
- Develop and implement comprehensive category plans to meet business objectives, overseeing all aspects of commercial, legal, and pricing negotiations.
- Ensure the successful execution of highly complex sourcing projects, driving results that align with Vodafone’s broader business goals.

**Team Leadership & Development**
- Lead, inspire, and mentor a talented team of Category Managers, fostering a culture of autonomy, innovation, and continuous development.
- Drive your team’s professional growth by guiding them through complex challenges and encouraging innovative problem-solving.
- Ensure your team is equipped with the latest tools, processes, and technologies to excel in category management.

**Stakeholder & Supplier Management**
- Build and maintain strong relationships with senior local and group stakeholders, as well as third-party suppliers, to influence and drive key category strategies.
- Challenge the status quo and present innovative solutions to senior leadership, ensuring alignment between procurement goals and business needs.
- Represent the category at senior leadership meetings, driving continuous improvement and fostering collaboration across Vodafone’s global markets.

**Innovation & Industry Expertise**
- Continuously evolve Vodafone’s approach to commercial and contracting models, working closely with internal teams and strategic suppliers.
- Stay ahead of industry trends, competitors, and market opportunities, ensuring Vodafone’s procurement strategies remain competitive and innovative.
- Promote best practices for operational excellence, innovation, customer experience, and cost savings.

**Data-Driven Decision Making**
- Leverage data analytics to provide insights, drive informed decision-making, and ensure Vodafone’s competitive edge in the marketplace.
- Own the delivery of key financial targets, including spend optimization, savings, and working capital improvements.

**Who you are**:

- ** Team Management & Leadership**:Proven experience in direct line management or virtual team management within global, cross-functional, or long-term projects. Demonstrated success in mentoring and coaching team members to achieve professional growth. Ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on involvement in specific category issues.Proven capability to manage ambitious objectives and maintain team momentum in challenging environments (e.g., remote stakeholder management, complex contracting processes, or policy challenges).
- ** Procurement Experience**:Proven track record of participating in and delivering large, complex global sourcing projects.Experience in outsourcing Customer Operations and working cross-functionally within a regional or global organization.
- ** Analytical Skills**:Strong numerical and analytical skills, with expertise in