Dense Air Limited (DAL) builds and operates Open RAN “neutral host” networks. Dense Air’s single shared architecture provides a secure, seamless, and simultaneous experience for mobile network operators, ISPs, enterprise private networks, and municipal uses such as borderless classrooms and first responder networks. Dense Air pursues innovative partnerships with communities to deploy neutral host small cell architecture across cities, using intelligent network insights to efficiently extend and enhance connectivity without overbuilding.

The newly formed Procurement and Supply Chain Function is responsible for building, managing and orchestrating a world class supply chain to support Dense Air’s global ambitions. The Procurement Manager is a key hire to drive and support all key procurement activity.

SCOPE (Key Deliverables)

Procurement

• Provide subject matter expertise on the mobile/5G vendor landscape and related technology developments, to the wider procurement team
• Understand the importance of IP capture/protections; deliver supply side contracts that protect DAL position and mitigate supply side risk
• Be aware of market trends and industry consolidation in the 5G/O-RAN space that may impact DAL cost/supply base
• Lead and manage all strategic technical RFX
• Understand the implications of legislation and directives on sourcing strategy e.g., Build America, Buy America Act
• Lead on negotiating commercial terms with key technology vendors/partners

Vendor Management

• Build a data driven view of the segmented 4G/5G/O-RAN supply base
• Drive a consistent technology vendor management approach
• Develop and maintain a balanced scorecard with associated KPIs
• Build collaborative relationships with strategic O-RAN vendors, partners and infrastructure providers, focusing on innovation, competitive advantage and sustainability

Strategy

• Develop a Dense Air Procurement Strategy
• Input into the Dense Air Supply Chain Strategy
• Support the Director of Procurement

REQUIREMENTS

A 10+ year experienced mobile telco procurement practitioner currently operating in a 4G/5G environment. Some experience of startups and/or PE backed businesses would be beneficial as would exposure to high tech volume manufacturing. Must be commercially and contract savvy with well-developed negotiating and influencing skills. Comfortable working in a small team and working with multiple stakeholders. Must have a passion for technology procurement and a willingness to help and support as we build a winning team. Preference given to candidates holding a formal qualification e.g., CPSM; MCIPS.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

• Mobile telco procurement subject matter expert
• Commercial mindset – well-honed negotiating skills
• Great communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to excel in a fast-paced environment and able to multi-task
• Organised, detail-minded, self-driven and able to work under pressure
• Ability to solve complex problems and make decisions 

Dense Air is committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, pregnancy, disability, age, veteran status, and any other characteristic protected by applicable law. Dense Air believes that diversity and inclusion among our teammates is critical to our success.