VodafoneThree - Manager Network Services Strategy and Ar

Vodafone; Reading; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonuses

Up to 28 days holiday

Pension plan

Charity time off

Job summary

Vodafone UK is seeking a senior network architect to shape the future of VodafoneThree’s Network Services, Core and Infrastructure. You’ll define strategy, develop architectures and provide governance across core networks, cloud and data centres, while engaging with vendors and stakeholders to drive commercial and customer outcomes.

You will collaborate with strategy, marketing, ICT and regulatory teams to align roadmaps with business priorities and regulatory requirements, while supporting

Qualifications

• Significant experience in telecoms strategy, architecture or network design (10+ years)
• Deep expertise in Voice Core, Data Core, Wholesale, VAS/Messaging or Infrastructure
• Experience with Cloud, Data Centres, orchestration, automation and transport networks
• Ability to provide technical governance and engage with technology vendors

Responsibilities

• Define network strategy and architecture for VodafoneThree’s Network Services, Core and Infrastructure.
• Develop high-level architectures, balancing customer experience, performance and cost.
• Lead governance across network touchpoints and align with IT and business goals.
• Guide RFI/RFQ processes and vendor selections with technical input.
• Collaborate with Commercial, Strategy and Regulatory teams to align roadmaps.
• Support pre-sales and complex customer solutions with credible technical leadership

Skills

Telecoms architecture

Network strategy

Core & Infrastructure

Cloud computing

Data centres

Automation

Vendor governance

Stakeholder comms

Education

Degree in Telecommunications or Engineering

Job description

Location: Newbury + HybridSalary: Excellent basic salary plus bonus and Vodafone benefitsWorking hours: Full time 37.5 hours per week – Monday to FridayHybridWe believe that through collaboration and connection with our colleagues we can achieve great things. Our hybrid working approach allows our people to work both in the office and at home, providing the flexibility and resources you need to succeed in your role. We don't require you to be in on specific days; instead, we ask people to come into the office 2-3 days each week, for at least 8 days per month. You should work with your line manager to understand what their expectations are for you, your specific role and your team.Who We AreWe’re here to build a network the UK can count on – one that connects people, places and potential. Because no matter where you live, what your background is, or how you get online – we think everyone deserves the same chance to stay connected, and with VodafoneThree, that future’s being built – today.We’re creating more than the UK’s best network. We’re helping close the digital divide, empower communities and drive meaningful progress.We believe that everyone should feel they belong. Whoever you are and whatever your story, there’s space for you here. We’re building a workplace where different perspectives are welcomed, voices are heard, and everyone feels safe to show up as themselves.You’ll join a team that genuinely cares – about each other, about our customers, and about the future we’re building. From day one, you’ll be welcomed, valued and encouraged to bring your whole self to work.Why VodafoneThreeJoin us and you’ll be at the heart of change. That means building responsibly, investing sustainably and creating opportunities that last.We’re not just expanding connectivity; we’re reimagining what a connected nation looks like. With £11bn invested in 5G and digital infrastructure, your work will directly power businesses, services, and communities across the country.You’ll work on real challenges, with real impact, across every corner of the country. Wherever you join us, whatever your role, you’ll be helping to build a future that works better for everyone.We move at pace, because what we’re building matters – and we’re learning as we go. We’re proud of the progress we’ve made, but we’re just getting started.Join our UK Networks team, where we’re continually building and enhancing our network, connecting millions of people and businesses across the country. Be part of the team that makes it all happen – simplifying, automating, and bringing better connectivity than ever before, with giga-fast speed, to our customers.What you'll doYou’ll help shape the future of VodafoneThree’s Network Services, Core and Infrastructure domains, defining the strategy and architecture that will support brilliant customer experiences, commercial outcomes and future innovation. Bringing deep expertise in your specialist area alongside broad knowledge across telecoms, you’ll work across technologies including Voice and Data Core, VAS and Messaging, Cloud, Data Centres, Automation and network infrastructure, turning strategic ambitions into clear, deliverable architecture.You’ll define and evolve network strategy, using analysis, business cases, SWOT assessments and proofs of concept to influence future investment and direction.You’ll develop high-level and target architectures across Core and Infrastructure, balancing customer experience, performance, cost efficiency and revenue opportunities.You’ll help align Cloud, Data Centre, orchestration, automation and infrastructure strategy across Network and IT to create joined-up, cost-effective solutions.You’ll provide strategic and architectural leadership on major programmes, ensuring solutions are technically viable and aligned with business priorities.You’ll provide technical governance across network touchpoints and work with delivery teams to ensure the intended business benefits are realised.You’ll explore emerging technologies, support trials and lead technical input into RFI/RFQ and vendor selection activities.You’ll build strategic relationships with technology partners and provide technical expertise to support commercial and contractual discussions.You’ll collaborate with Business Strategy, Marketing, ICT and Regulatory teams to align network roadmaps with wider product, technology and compliance objectives.You’ll support complex wholesale opportunities, bringing technical governance, solution expertise and credibility to customer engagements.Who you areYou’ll bring significant experience in telecoms strategy, architecture or network design, ideally gained over 10+ years in relevant roles.You’ll have deep expertise in at least one specialist area, such as Voice Core, Data Core, Wholesale, VAS/Messaging or Infrastructure, alongside broader knowledge across Network Services, Core and Infrastructure.You’ll understand mobile, fixed and wholesale network environments and technologies such as Cloud, Data Centres, orchestration, automation and transport.You’ll have experience of technical governance, solution architecture and working strategically with technology vendors.You’ll be comfortable evaluating emerging technologies and translating technical opportunities into practical business and customer benefits.You’ll understand relevant regulatory frameworks and ideally have experience supporting regulatory or spectrum-related activities.You’ll bring experience supporting pre-sales, business development or complex customer solutions.You’ll be an engaging communicator who can simplify complex technical topics and adapt your style for technical, commercial and senior stakeholder audiences.You’ll thrive in a collaborative, cross-functional environment, bringing people together to shape strategy and deliver shared outcomes.A degree in Telecommunications, Engineering or a related discipline will be valuable, with advanced qualifications welcomed but not essential.Worried that you don’t meet all the desired criteria exactly?We know that everyone is unique, with multiple aspects to their identity and different experiences behind them. 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.What we offerWe care about our people’s success by offering great pay, bonuses, up to 28 days off plus bank holidays, and paid time for charity work. You can personalise our benefits for you and your family, like discounts, vouchers, a pension plan and loads more. We help with your career through our amazing learning tools and top-notch parental leave policies.Need to KnowWe are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and all offers of employment for this role are subject to background checks, including criminal (DBS) and financial checks to meet the regulators standards.If you require any reasonable adjustments or have an accessibility request as part of your recruitment journey, for example, extended time or breaks in between online assessments, a sign language interpreter, or assistive technology, please refer to the Accessibility section of our Careers website (https://careers.vodafone.com/uk/reasonable-adjustments/) for guidance.We use AI in different parts of our business to boost innovation, improve efficiency, and create new opportunities. We know many candidates use AI to fine-tune their CVs or prepare for interviews, but what we really care about is your unique experiences and achievements.During the interview, we want you to rely on your own knowledge and skills to show us who you really are—your personality, creativity, and abilities. Above all, we’re looking for authenticity and can’t wait to get to know the real you.#VodafoneThree#LI-Hybrid