Portfolio Manager – Innovation & Scaleup

About the role

The Portfolio Manager will drive Vodafone’s innovation pipeline by identifying, evaluating, and commercialising scale‑up technologies that align with our strategic priorities. Working within the Tomorrow Street accelerator, you will act as the bridge between emerging tech partners and Vodafone’s market functions, turning promising ideas into tangible business outcomes.

Key responsibilities

• Source high‑potential scale‑ups and strategic partners aligned with Vodafone’s priority domains.
• Maintain and grow a high‑quality end‑to‑end opportunity pipeline.
• Evaluate business cases, support commercial modelling, and prepare proposals in collaboration with partners.
• Lead contract negotiations, clearly articulating commercial and customer requirements.
• Build and sustain strong relationships across Vodafone markets, functions, and senior stakeholders.
• Orchestrate cross‑functional engagement (Technology, Networks, Procurement, Legal, Finance) to unblock progress and ensure alignment.
• Manage ongoing partner relationships to ensure operational excellence and successful delivery.
• Understand planning and budgeting cycles to align innovation initiatives with upcoming business needs.

Required profile

• Proven ability to build internal and external relationships and sell innovative concepts.
• Deep interest in future trends, startup ecosystems, and digital technologies.
• Strong understanding of Vodafone’s organisational structure and functions.
• Flexibility to operate in both a complex corporate environment and a fast‑moving startup context.
• Knowledge of planning and budgeting processes within large enterprises.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to shape the future of connectivity within a global telecom leader.
• Access to a vibrant ecosystem of startups, venture capital, and incubators.
• Collaborative environment that balances innovation with commercial impact.