Assistant Manager – Technical Procurement (Telecom)

About the role

The Assistant Manager – Technical Procurement will lead complex sourcing initiatives for a 5G network planning portfolio, acting as a bridge between end‑user departments, suppliers and internal stakeholders. The role demands strong business acumen, strategic decision‑making and the ability to manage end‑to‑end procurement processes for telecom equipment and services.

Key responsibilities

• Lead end‑to‑end procurement activities for network planning, managing RFIs/RFPs for RAN, optical transport, access, power systems, core & cloud, and IP‑core solutions.
• Coordinate supplier engagement, obtain competitive quotations, and act as the primary procurement interface for OEMs and partners.
• Drive high‑complexity bids, tenders and pre‑bid meetings, ensuring technical and commercial alignment.
• Develop bid strategies, procurement plans and vendor short‑listing recommendations, securing stakeholder consent.
• Negotiate commercial terms, draft contracts and ensure compliance with procurement policies.
• Monitor contract finalisation, work with legal/compliance teams and maintain supplier registrations.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree (MS/MBA preferred).
• 5‑7 years of procurement experience in the telecom sector, preferably with system integrators or ISPs.
• Strong stakeholder‑management, project‑management and negotiation abilities.
• High integrity and adherence to corporate compliance standards.

Required skills

• Telecom equipment procurement and RFP/RFI management.
• Vendor negotiation and contract drafting.
• In‑depth knowledge of 5G network components (RAN, optical transport, access, power systems, core & cloud, IP‑core).
• Understanding of procurement policies, compliance requirements and techno‑commercial evaluation.