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Sheryl Freeman
Network Cost Analysis & Reporting Manager at Masergy
Professional Background
Sheryl Freeman is a highly skilled Telecommunications Network Cost & Vendor Relations Manager recognized for her expertise in managing telecom expenses across various environments, including regulated and contractual situations. Throughout her career spanning several prestigious organizations, Sheryl has demonstrated exceptional capability in auditing and validating carrier invoices against purchase orders (POs), tariffs, and contracts. Her diligent oversight has resulted in the recovery of millions of dollars in telecom expenses for her employers, demonstrating an impressive return on investment in telecommunications spend management.
An innovative thinker and strategic planner, Sheryl has built, trained, and managed highly effective network cost teams in three Competitive Local Exchange Carriers (CLECs) as well as at T-Mobile, where she honed her skills in leadership and team management. Her professional journey highlights a robust ability to manage costs through meticulous data mining and manipulation, which she leverages to reconcile billing discrepancies with contract language effectively.
Sheryl Freeman is also known for her proactive approach to cost improvement measures. She has been instrumental in creating circuit inventories, conducting root-cause analyses of billing errors, and refining accrual processes to enhance the financial controls and operational efficiencies within the telecom sector. Her outstanding interpersonal skills enable her to interface effectively with multiple departments and engage with all levels of management, including executive leadership up to the CEO level, to ensure the accuracy of records and reporting at both micro and macro levels.
Education and Achievements
Sheryl Freeman’s academic background is as impressive as her professional achievements. She studied Engineering and Accounting at The University of Tulsa, laying a strong foundation for her analytical skills in cost management. Additionally, she pursued studies in Petroleum Engineering, further broadening her engineering expertise. Furthermore, Sheryl earned a Master of Business Administration from the prestigious Columbia Business School, adding a top-tier credential that enhances her business acumen and strategic foresight.
Her educational pursuits at both The University of Tulsa and Tulsa Junior College have equipped her with the technical knowledge and financial insight necessary to excel in her career in telecommunications cost management.
Career Milestones
Sheryl Freeman’s career spans several key positions that underline her robust expertise in network cost management and vendor relations:
- Network Cost Analysis & Reporting Manager at Masergy: In this role, Sheryl is responsible for performing detailed analyses of telecom expenses, developing comprehensive reports that inform financial strategies and decisions.
- Former Network Cost Auditor at Sage Management: Here, Sheryl conducted thorough audits, designed to identify inconsistencies and inaccuracies in invoicing processes.
- Senior Manager, Network & Energy Cost Management at T-Mobile: Over several roles at T-Mobile, Sheryl honed her managerial skills, leading teams in strategic cost management related to network and energy expenses.
- Carrier Cost Control Manager at Norlight, Inc.: Focused on auditing and controlling costs associated with carrier services, ensuring that financial operations aligned with company standards.
- Director of Carrier Accounting & Assurance at TelePacific Communications: Sheryl managed the financial relations between the company and its service providers, ensuring compliance with contracts and optimizing cost structures.
- Key positions at Birch Telecom, ICG Communications, Sprint Long Distance, and Consolidated Communications: Throughout these roles, Sheryl excelled as a Cost Analyst managing various aspects of telecommunications and vendor relations.
Notable Skills
Sheryl’s specialties include:
- Line Cost Audit: Analyzing costs associated with telecommunications services to identify savings.
- Network Cost Optimization: Implementing strategies for efficient use of telecom resources, maximizing functionality while minimizing expenses.
- Network Cost Analysis: Conducting in-depth evaluations of network spending and identifying areas for improvement.
- Carrier Relations: Maintaining strong relationships with service providers to enhance negotiation outcomes.
- Data Mining: Extracting and analyzing data to support cost management initiatives effectively.
Achievements
Sheryl Freeman has achieved notable milestones throughout her career, including:
- Recovering millions of dollars through meticulous auditing and validation of billing, highlighting her commitment to financial accuracy and accountability.
- Successfully building and developing high-performing teams that excel in cost management within the challenging environment of telecommunications.
- Establishing best practices for cost improvement measures that have become industry benchmarks, contributing to enhanced financial health for multiple organizations.
- Earning recognition within her field for excellence in network cost management, fostering growth and accountability in telecommunications operations.
Sheryl Freeman continues to leverage her extensive experience in the telecommunications sector to drive value and optimize costs for the organizations she collaborates with. Her ability to analyze complex financial data and manage vendor relationships effectively sets her apart as a leader in telecommunications network cost management.
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