- Drive commercial negotiations and Master Service Agreements with network OEMs (switching/routing platforms, optical equipment, network appliances) and connectivity providers (carriers, dark fiber operators, IP transit and peering partners).
- Audit network OEM and carrier procurement schedules, ensure optimal allocation, and drive cost efficiency of supply in constrained markets (especially high-demand items like 400G/800G optics and high-radix switches).
- Implement frameworks to ensure third-party data center and network partners adhere to commercial terms and technical specifications.
- Develop a global inventory strategy for network gear and optics — including warehousing, third-party logistics, buffer stock, and regional distribution — to accelerate time-to-deployment and improve availability.
- Proactively monitor global network supply chain volatility (silicon shortages, optics lead times, fiber availability) and execute contingency plans to avoid critical project delays.
- Translate network architecture roadmaps into equipment and connectivity forecasts and procurement pipelines.
- Partner with Finance to optimize network inventory strategy and capex planning.
- Establish efficient return and replacement (RMA) workflows with network vendors to restore failed equipment quickly.
- Negotiate warranty and SLA terms and track vendor performance on RMA execution and circuit delivery.