Category Manager - Construction and fit‑out projects

Date: 13 Feb 2026

Location: Abu Dhabi, AE

Company: Etihad Airways

 

Synopsis

The role is responsible for leading sourcing and procurement for construction and fit‑out projects, including associated consultancy services. It requires a strong technical background (MEP preferred, or Civil with solid MEP knowledge), hands‑on site and estimating experience, and at least five years managing construction tenders end‑to‑end. The position demands robust project, commercial, and contract management skills, including negotiation and administration under FIDIC Yellow and Red Book, handling variations, EOTs, and cost claims. The role also focuses on delivering best value through cost optimization and strong governance, selecting appropriate procurement strategies, and setting KPIs, milestones, and SLAs to manage contractor performance.

Accountabilities

 

  • Lead and manage end‑to‑end construction tender processes, including bid evaluation, commercial negotiations, and award recommendations.
  • Own contract administration and governance, ensuring risks are identified, mitigated, and the company is protected from financial and contractual exposure.
  • Develop and execute robust contract management plans in collaboration with business contract owners, ensuring compliance, performance, and value delivery.
  • Establish and maintain schedule of rates and commercial benchmarks to support cost analysis, variation negotiations, and ongoing project pipeline management.

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 functional experience in PSM roles

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

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