Aldar Education is seeking an experienced and results-driven Manager – Procurement to lead its procurement operations across its educational institutions in Abu Dhabi. This on-site, full-time role involves managing procurement strategies, leading procurement teams, and ensuring compliance with corporate governance. The ideal candidate will have strong stakeholder engagement skills, knowledge of the education sector supply chain, and proven expertise in leading end-to-end procurement processes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage procurement activities across specific business categories.

• Develop and execute category-specific procurement strategies aligned with the annual procurement plan.

• Lead and manage a team of procurement specialists.

• Plan and oversee the procure-to-pay cycle to ensure efficiency and compliance.

• Lead RFQs/RFPs and ensure alignment with organizational objectives.

• Act as procurement lead on key strategic projects such as mergers or technology rollouts.

• Negotiate favorable terms with suppliers regarding pricing, quality, and service.

• Build and maintain relationships with preferred vendors for reliable, high-quality supply.

• Analyze supplier markets for cost-effective sourcing.

• Ensure purchasing practices meet internal corporate governance standards.

• Generate reports and dashboards to monitor procurement performance and trends.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Minimum graduate-level degree; Procurement-specific qualifications are highly desirable.

• CIPS Certification is an added advantage.

• Minimum of 10 years’ experience in procurement within the UAE/GCC region.

• Experience in the education sector is preferred.

Skills & Competencies:

• Fluent English communication skills; Arabic proficiency is a plus.

• Excellent negotiation, organizational, and time-management skills.

• Strong interpersonal and stakeholder management abilities.

• High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks under pressure.

• Proficiency in ERP systems and data analysis/reporting tools.