Senior Category Manager - Construction (UAEN)

Senior Category Manager - Construction

Responsibilities

• Review business demand and prepare sourcing documentation, ensuring all approvals are secured in line with delegation of authority.
• Develop and present sourcing strategies based on business needs, category plans, market research, and risk analysis.
• Conduct spend analysis (e.g., TCO, EOQ), market research, and commercial modelling (e.g., SWOT, Porter’s Five Forces) to identify trends, risks, and opportunities.
• Oversee prequalification of bidders and preparation, issuance, and management of tender documents in compliance with company policies.
• Coordinate cross-functional feedback and finalize tender/contract documentation with stakeholders and legal teams.
• Manage bid processes including opening, compliance checks, technical and commercial evaluations, and post-tender clarifications.
• Lead negotiations with suppliers using data-driven strategies and ensure all risks are addressed in contracts.
• Prepare and present award recommendations and obtain necessary approvals.
• Identify and implement cost optimization opportunities through ongoing contract reviews.
• Resolve contractual disputes and claims in coordination with stakeholders.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders and understand business requirements.
• Support audits (internal/external) and manage related responses.
• Lead, manage, and develop procurement team members.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the reporting manager.

Education & Qualifications

• BSc in Civil Engineering or equivalent
• MCIPS or equivalent certification.

Experience

• **Minimum of 8 years’ experience in Construction Category Management or Strategic Procurement, preferably within large-scale construction, infrastructure, or engineering environments.**
• Proven experience managing end-to-end procurement cycles for construction-related categories, including materials, subcontracting, and services.
• Demonstrated experience working with vendors, contractors, and stakeholders in complex project-based settings.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing procurement strategies.
• Strong knowledge of procurement principles, processes, and tools.
• Experience in supplier negotiations (commercial and contractual).
• Experience leading and managing procurement teams.
• Ability to manage senior stakeholders and influence decision-making.
• Experience working in fast-paced, dynamic environments.
• Aviation or similar industry experience preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft tools and ERP/sourcing systems.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills.
• **Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams, including engineering, projects, finance, and legal.**
• Advanced negotiation skills.
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving ability.
• Strategic decision-making capability.
• Adaptability to changing business needs.
• Leadership and team development skills.
• **Strong understanding of construction contracts, sourcing strategies, and commercial negotiation practices.**
• **Familiarity with procurement systems (ERP, e-sourcing platforms) and contract management tools.**
• **At Abu Dhabi Airports, we are shaping the future of aviation in the region.
• Join a team where your expertise can make a real impact in ensuring world-class operational safety and efficiency.
• *Apply today and join our team!***