Principal Manager Reverse Logistics

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At Vodafone, we’re not just shaping the future of connectivity for our customers – we’re shaping the future for everyone who joins our team. When you work with us, you’re part of a global mission to connect people, solve complex challenges, and create a sustainable and more inclusive world. If you want to grow your career whilst finding the perfect balance between work and life, Vodafone offers the opportunities to help you belong and make a real impact.

What you’ll do

As the Principal Manager of Reverse Logistics, you will shape the reverse logistics strategy for network equipment and direct all aspects of its implementation to support Vodafone’s operational and sustainability goals.

In this role, you will drive consistent practices across the group and ensure the efficient management of the end-to-end reverse logistics flow. This includes implementing network-wide standard operating procedures (SOPs) for reverse logistics, identifying synergies or required differences within each geography, and defining key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure and enhance the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and quality of reverse logistics processes, policies, and procedures.

You will partner with networks, planning, and finance teams to create full transparency of how we plan the return of decommissioned equipment, benchmark physical returns to warehouses against forecasts and network data, and interlock opportunities to re-use, re-sell, or recycle network equipment with broader investment plans.

As the custodian of our Network Waste, you will also work closely with logistics and recycle partners across markets to identify and execute scalable reuse, repair, upcycle, and recycle solutions, aligned with Vodafone’s Purpose and zero landfill target.

The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with a strong operational background, excellent leadership skills, and a proven track record in logistics and supply chain management, specifically reverse logistics.

You will develop and execute the reverse logistics strategy supporting our operational and sustainability goals. Establishing KPIs to measure and enhance the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and quality of the reverse logistics processes, policies, and procedures will be a key part of your role. You will also develop and implement network-wide SOPs for reverse logistics, identifying synergies or required differences within each geography.

In terms of performance and planning, you will work with networks, supply planning, and finance teams to align opportunities to use returned inventory in new deployment plans, maximizing ROI. You will benchmark physical returns to warehouse vs. forecast and network data (, U2000, NOC) and drive network segmentation to reuse older technology as a substitute for evolution products.

For partner management, you will embed reverse logistics as a commercial milestone in decommissioning and deinstallation contracts, ensure Vodafone’s compliance with relevant contractual terms to return hardware to its OEMs, and establish and manage service level agreements (SLAs) with 3PL partners and recyclers, defining performance expectations and contractual obligations.

Regarding network waste and circularity, you will develop and execute scalable reuse, repair, upcycle, and recycle solutions, aligned with Vodafone’s Purpose and zero landfill target (compliance to CSRD). You will identify opportunities to monetize network waste, assess current scrap and disposal policies, including the use of our Asset Marketplace, and ensure supplier compliance with relevant environmental legislation while supporting internal audits of E2E processes.

In terms of culture and continuous improvement, you will identify partnership opportunities to enable innovative and cost-effective solutions to drive value from reverse logistics. Staying informed about industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in reverse logistics, you will recommend innovative solutions to enhance operational efficiency and foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Who you are

• Logistics and Supply Chain : Strong knowledge of logistics principles, processes, and best practices (including reverse logistics economics). Proven track record of managing reverse logistics strategy and operations at scale. Knowledge of industry regulations and compliance requirements (including waste management).
• Organizational and Time Management : Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines. Ability to adapt to changing priorities and work in a fast-paced environment.
• Problem-Solving Skills : Outstanding problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze complex situations and develop effective solutions.
• Analytical Skills : Strong analytical skills, with the ability to collect, analyze, and interpret data to drive informed decision-making.
• Communication and Interpersonal :   Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate and build relationships with diverse stakeholders. Ability to communicate and present with impact both verbally and in writing.
• Leadership :   Ability to effectively lead and manage diverse teams through either direct or indirect reporting relationships. Familiarity with lean principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Language : Proficiency in English, both written and spoken.
• Education or Experience :  University degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, or Engineering (Masters / MBA preferred or professional certification) OR / AND 8+ years of experience in logistics, supply chain, of which 4 years in a leadership role.