Manager – Vendor Affairs, Procurement (UAE-National)

Role Overview

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement vendor management and sourcing strategies aligned with organizational procurement objectives.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with local and regional suppliers to ensure long-term collaboration and performance.
• Lead supplier negotiations across the UAE and GCC to achieve optimal commercial and contractual terms.
• Ensure full compliance with UAE and GCC regulatory frameworks, procurement policies, and internal governance standards.
• Act as the primary point of contact for all vendor-related matters, ensuring effective coordination between internal stakeholders and external suppliers.
• Oversee vendor onboarding, due diligence, and compliance checks in line with organizational standards.
• Monitor and evaluate vendor performance using KPIs, SLAs, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate risks across the vendor and supply ecosystem, including operational and commercial risks.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams such as finance, legal, and operations to ensure smooth contract execution and procurement processes.
• Analyze market trends, supplier pricing, and category dynamics within the UAE and GCC region.
• Ensure alignment of vendor strategies with business requirements, balancing cost efficiency, quality, and service delivery.
• Maintain strong governance over procurement activities and ensure transparency in vendor dealings.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Procurement, or related field.
• 8+ years of experience in procurement or vendor management, preferably within UAE/GCC markets.
• Strong expertise in supplier negotiations, contract management, and vendor relationship management.
• Good understanding of UAE/GCC procurement regulations and compliance requirements.
• Strong stakeholder management, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Analytical mindset with ability to evaluate supplier performance and market trends.
• Experience working with cross-functional teams in a complex organizational environment.