Network Sourcing Manager

Overview

Cloud Ops and Innovation (CO+I) is the engine that powers Microsoft’s cloud services. The team is responsible for designing, building and operating our unified global datacenters; managing the demand planning and capacity utilization of our unified infrastructure; and for operating the physical infrastructure (including supply chain, hardware, power, security, and workflow teams). We focus on smart growth with an emphasis on automation, data driven engineering, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability. We deliver the core infrastructure and foundational technologies for Microsoft’s over 200 online businesses including Azure, Bing, MSN, Office 365, Xbox Live, Skype, and OneDrive. Our infrastructure is comprised of a large global portfolio of more than 100 datacenters and 1 million servers. Our portfolio is built and managed by a team of subject matter experts working 24x7x365 to support services for more than 1 billion customers and 20 million businesses in over 90 countries worldwide.

The Cloud Interconnection and Acquisitions team is responsible for acquisition of Fiber, Edge, Egress and Peering solutions supporting all of Microsoft’s online services infrastructure. We work with the various engineering, capacity and long-range planning teams on a collaborative basis to ensure the Microsoft network has the highest quality and availability globally.

Microsoft’s mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. As employees we come together with a growth mindset, innovate to empower others, and collaborate to realize our shared goals. Each day we build on our values of respect, integrity, and accountability to create a culture of inclusion where everyone can thrive at work and beyond.

Responsibilities

• Lead network capacity and infrastructure initiatives across EMEA, supporting metro, long-haul, subsea, and colocation network deployments.
• Drive commercial and contractual negotiations with telecom, fiber, subsea, and colocation providers to secure network services that meet business and technical requirements.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to develop and execute strategies that support network expansion, resiliency, and cost optimization.
• Serve as the regional subject matter expert for network topology, market analysis, route planning, and vendor selection across EMEA.
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with vendors, service providers, and industry stakeholders to identify partnership and growth opportunities.
• Manage complex projects and stakeholder engagements, ensuring timely delivery, clear communication, and measurable business impact.
• Ensure supplier contracts comply with business, legal, security, and service-level requirements while supporting high network availability and operational excellence.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field or equivalent professional experience.
• Significant experience in networking, telecommunications, cloud infrastructure, or related technologies.
• Demonstrated experience negotiating commercial and contractual agreements with technology, network, or service providers including contractual/MSA negotiations.
• Solid understanding of domestic and global carrier networks.
• Working knowledge of the fundamentals of optical networking: Fiber optics and DWDM technologies.
• Solid grasp and experience with workflow management and excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, including financial analytics.
• Proven knowledge of Data Center Operations, Inside Plant Management and Design, Outside plant, Bulk Fiber Installation and diverse terrestrial routing fundamentals.
• Demonstrated experience and knowledge of regional regulatory environments.
• Demonstrated command of existing subsea systems topologies, cable landings and Top Interconnection facilities regionally.

Background Check Requirements:

Ability to meet Microsoft, customer and/or government security screening requirements are required for this role. These requirements include, but are not limited to the following specialized security screenings:

• Microsoft Cloud Background Check: This position will be required to pass the Microsoft Cloud background check upon hire/transfer and every two years thereafter.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Extensive experience in networking technologies, data center infrastructure, or telecommunications.
• Demonstrated experience in strategic negotiations, vendor management, and contract development.
• Knowledge of regional telecommunications markets, regulatory environments, and network connectivity solutions.
• Experience supporting large-scale network expansion, capacity planning, or infrastructure deployment initiatives.
• Strong business acumen with the ability to drive strategic partnerships and operational improvements.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, global environment and travel as needed.
• Willing to travel between 25% and 50% of the time

Sourcing Engineering IC4 - The typical base pay range for this role across United Kingdom is £ 74,700.00 - £ 122,600.00 per year. Certain roles may be eligible for benefits and other compensation.

Find additional benefits and pay information here:

Sourcing Engineering IC4 - The typical base pay range for this role across United Kingdom is £ 74,700.00 - £ 122,600.00 per year. Certain roles may be eligible for benefits and other compensation.

Find additional benefits and pay information here:

This position will be open for a minimum of 5 days, with applications accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.

Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, immigration status, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran or military status, race, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local laws, regulations and ordinances. If you need assistance with religious accommodations and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application process, read more about requesting accommodations.