Senior Sourcing (Network) Specialist

Job Description

As a Senior Sourcing (Network) Specialist at CelcomDigi, you will spearhead strategic procurement initiatives across Network and Telecommunications categories. You will partner with internal stakeholders and external suppliers to shape sourcing strategies that optimise costs, enhance supplier performance, and support CelcomDigi’s technological and commercial objectives. This role combines analytical rigour with negotiation acumen, ideal for professionals passionate about telecommunications procurement and supplier management.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Sourcing & Category Management: Lead the development and execution of category-specific sourcing strategies for Network / Telco related procurement, aligning with business, technical, and commercial objectives. Carry out rigorous market and supplier analyses to identify cost-saving opportunities and optimise supplier portfolios through demand aggregation and standardisation efforts.
• Sourcing Execution, Tender & Commercial Negotiation: Drive comprehensive end-to-end sourcing processes, including RFQs, RFPs, tenders, and e-bidding exercises, ensuring strict adherence to company procurement policies. Strategise and lead complex commercial negotiations for multi-year contracts and diverse pricing models, employing detailed Total Cost of Ownership evaluations and lifecycle cost analysis for informed decision making.
• Supplier & Market Management: Maintain an in-depth understanding of the dynamic Network / Telco supplier ecosystem. Conduct ongoing supplier and market evaluations to uncover innovative technologies, alternative sourcing options, and competitive pricing strategies. Foster competitive tension by exploring supplier diversification and dual sourcing initiatives where feasible.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement: Work closely with internal teams across Network, Technology, Finance, Legal, and Procurement to ensure sourcing strategies are technically aligned and commercially robust. Manage stakeholder expectations throughout sourcing lifecycles, facilitating alignment between technical specifications and commercial outcomes.
• Supplier Relationship Management & Contract Governance: Establish and nurture strategic partnerships with key suppliers, overseeing contract negotiations, performance management, SLA/KPI compliance, and continuous improvement initiatives. Collaborate with Contract Management and Legal to ensure sound contractual frameworks supporting service excellence and risk mitigation.
• Coaching & Capability Development: Mentor and provide functional guidance to Sourcing Specialists, sharing expert knowledge in telecommunications procurement practices. Champion a culture of procurement excellence, commercial discipline, and continuous improvement within the team.
• Compliance, Governance & Sustainability: Uphold strict compliance with procurement policies and governance standards, maintaining thorough documentation and audit readiness. Integrate sustainable sourcing principles and responsible supplier governance into procurement strategies, while proactively identifying and managing associated risks.

Requirements

• Minimum of 10 to 12 years’ experience in procurement or strategic sourcing, specifically with strong expertise in Network (Telecommunications) sourcing.
• Demonstrated experience working with telecommunication operators, network service providers, system integrators, technology firms, or within extensive enterprise network environments is highly preferred.
• Comprehensive knowledge of Network (Telco) commercial models, supplier ecosystems, pricing structures, and industry trends.
• Proven capabilities in managing complex sourcing activities such as RFQs, RFPs, tenders, commercial evaluations, and high-stakes negotiations.
• Advanced skills in Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) analysis, price benchmarking, cost optimization, supplier consolidation, and robust commercial modelling techniques.
• Track record of successfully negotiating intricate commercial agreements achieving measurable cost savings, avoidance, and creating sustainable value.
• Proactive and independent working style, with experience in navigating matrix organisations and managing complex, ambiguous situations.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint, alongside familiarity with procurement tools such as Coupa, SAP, or equivalent e-Procurement platforms.
• Possession of professional procurement certifications like CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management), CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply), or equivalent credentials is advantageous.