Category Manager (UAE National Only)
Date: 20 Jan 2026
Location: Abu Dhabi, AE
Company: Etihad Airways
Synopsis
We are looking for a UAE National procurement professional to join our Team! This purpose of the role is to manage the ground handling category to deliver best value for Etihad in terms of price/savings, service, supply chain reliability and Local Content objectives - delivered in line with governance, policy & compliance requirements. In addition, liaise with business users to review and challenge work scopes/specifications bringing commercial perspectives on supply market standards and benchmarks.
Responsible for the development of category plans, translating these into sourcing strategies, leading sourcing execution through to contract award and post contract management/supplier relationship management. Personally leads & delivers high value/complex projects.
Accountabilities
• Plan, deliver & update Category Strategies, including demand & supply market analysis, market innovation opportunities, Local Content targets, savings targets & best commercial approaches
• Develop & maintain Category & Sub-Category level Demand Plans, ensuring a ‘handshake’ with relevant end users, monitor & update plans to track expiring contracts & new requirements
• Lead the development and execution of Sourcing Strategies, ensuring appropriate work scope challenge and all relevant sourcing levers and commercial options are applied using suitable procurement channels, with Local Content fully considered and using financial analyses / TCO
• Develop & apply Negotiation Strategies & commercial discussions to extract best value
• Liaise daily with Procurement Operations Team to monitor ongoing planning and execution of sourcing transactions
• Take leading role in key aspects of high value sourcing transactions (eg complex scopes work, complex negotiations)
• Ensure Contract Documentation and systems records are accurate, fully reflect all relevant work scopes and commercial terms, utilizing standard contract types where possible
• Lead effective Supplier Relationship Management for strategic vendors and support the business in Contract Performance Management
• Liaise with Procurement Operations Teams , supporting the development of the Procurement Operations Teams. guiding and supporting capability development to enhance category expertise
Education & Experience
• Degree level qualification preferred, CIPS or other relevant professional qualification / certification / membership desirable
• At least 5 years relevant experience in the Category, or relevant procurement/supply chain experience
About Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways, the national airline of the UAE, was formed in 2003 and quickly went on to become one of the world’s leading airlines. From its home in Abu Dhabi, Etihad flies to passenger and cargo destinations in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia and North America. Together with Etihad’s codeshare partners, Etihad’s network offers access to hundreds of international destinations. In recent years, Etihad has received numerous awards for its superior service and products, cargo offering, loyalty programme and more. All this ties into Etihad’s ambitious Journey 2030 strategy. The airline plans to double its fleet size and triple the number of customers over the next six years as it sets out to be the airline everyone wants to fly!
To learn more, visit etihad.com
Recruitment Fraud Alert
Beware of fraudulent job offers from individuals or organizations claiming to represent the Etihad group. We will never ask for personal information, bank details, or payment during the recruitment process. Interviews are conducted face-to-face or via video/telephone before any formal offer. If you are asked for money, please treat it as fraudulent.