Procurement Category Lead - Automotive | Group Procurement | Corporate Services

Job Requisition ID: 176453

Established in the 1930s as a trading business, Al-Futtaim Group today is one of the most diversified and progressive, privately held regional businesses headquartered in Dubai, United A”rab Emirates. Structured into five operating divisions; automotive, financial services, real estate, retail and healthcare; employing more than 35,000 employees across more than 20 countries in the Middle East, Asia and Africa, Al-Futtaim Group partners with over 200 of the world's most admired and innovative brands. Al-Futtaim Group’s entrepreneurship and relentless customer focus enables the organisation to continue to grow and expand; responding to the changing needs of our customers within the societies in which we operate.

By upholding our values of respect, excellence, collaboration and integrity; Al-Futtaim Group continues to enrich the lives and aspirations of our customers each and every day.

Overview Of The Role:

The Procurement Category Lead for Automotive is responsible for leading strategic procurement initiatives across business units, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives. The role focuses on developing category strategies for both Direct and Indirect Spend within the automotive sector. This position also involves leading supplier relationship management, ensuring compliance, and driving cost savings initiatives. Success in this role is measured by achieving defined procurement objectives, such as cost reductions, compliance adherence, and stakeholder satisfaction.

What You Will Do:

Strategic Procurement Leadership

• Develop and implement comprehensive category strategies for both Direct and Indirect Spend in automotive procurement.

• Conduct scenario planning, including total cost of ownership analysis, should-cost modelling, and value chain mapping.

• Ensure compliance with procurement policies, budgets, and regulatory requirements.

• Plan and manage procurement projects with clear objectives and timelines.

• Drive talent development and achieve 100% completion of individual development plans for team members.

Demand Management

• Collaborate with stakeholders to align procurement strategies with business needs.

• Identify cost-effective methods and establish Preferred Suppliers to optimize resources.

• Build a project pipeline to support business requirements.

Supplier Relationship Management

• Lead the Source-to-Contract process, ensuring efficient supplier identification, selection, and negotiation.

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to optimize performance.

• Manage supplier performance and ensure they meet delivery, quality, and responsiveness targets.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Engage with internal stakeholders to align procurement activities with organizational goals.

• Influence decision-making processes through sustainable relationships and political astuteness.

• Create cross-functional Stakeholder Committees to enhance collaboration.

Required Skills To Be Successful:

• Strong skills in strategic category management and total cost analysis.

• Proficiency in managing supplier relationships and procurement lifecycles.

• Excellent communication and influencing skills across cross-functional teams.

• Ability to lead procurement projects and drive organizational change effectively.

What Qualifies You For The Role:

• Bachelor's degree required; a Master's degree is preferred.

• CIPS qualification or equivalent is highly desirable.

• 7 to 10 years of procurement experience, with a focus on automotive category management.

• Expertise in automotive procurement strategies, total cost analysis, and supplier lifecycle management.
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