Category Manager - Facility Management

About the role

The Procurement Category Lead for Facilities Management leads strategic procurement across several business units, managing an AED 800M third-party spend. The role covers hard services (mechanical, electrical and plumbing) and soft services (cleaning, landscaping and security), and develops strategies aligned with the organization's objectives while delivering cost-effective solutions. The Lead mentors a team of Sourcing Managers, oversees third-party vendors, tracks their performance and drives cost savings and efficiency improvements.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement category strategies with measurable objectives, using market data, stakeholder input and organizational needs
• Run scenario planning, including total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis, should-cost modelling and value chain mapping
• Ensure adherence to procurement policies, budgets and regulatory requirements, and plan and manage procurement projects with clear objectives, timelines and resources
• Ensure 100% completion of talent development plans for team members
• Balance business needs with procurement strategy, establish preferred suppliers and consolidate the supplier base
• Lead the source-to-contract process, including supplier identification, selection and negotiation, and build strong supplier relationships
• Work with internal stakeholders to optimize specifications and influence decision-making

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree preferred
• CIPS or equivalent qualification highly desirable
• 7-10 years of procurement experience, preferably in category management and/or supplier management
• Proven project management experience and use of procurement tools
• Proficiency in spoken and written English; additional languages advantageous
• Ability to influence decisions, manage cross-functional teams and build long-term relationships

Required skills

• Category strategy development and implementation
• Supplier relationship management and negotiation
• Total cost analysis, ecosystem mapping and supplier lifecycle management
• Budget management and procurement KPIs
• Monitoring compliance and implementing risk mitigation plans