Role Summary:
The Senior Category Manager - Construction acts as the Procurement subject matter expert for an assigned category, leading the development and execution of category strategies and initiatives.
The role is responsible for managing procurement planning and pre-contract activities across AD Airports and its subsidiaries, ensuring compliance with organizational policies and procedures. The position focuses on delivering commercially valuable outcomes by driving cost savings, improving efficiency, reducing risks, and enabling timely procurement of goods, services, concessions, and works. This includes building strategic partnerships and establishing framework agreements to support long-term business objectives.
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.
Required Education, Experience, Qualifications and Skills
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!
