Job Description

Principal Category Manager - Transport & Transmission (Telecoms)
Dubai
We are looking for a Principal Category Manager to lead the Transport & Transmission strategic category within a dynamic telecom environment. This is a senior role focused on category strategy development, supplier negotiations, and procurement excellence, ensuring cost optimization and innovation across global markets.
As part of the Network POD - Radio & Transmission Squad, you will define, build, and execute category strategies for transport and transmission services. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, drive strategic negotiations, and implement best practices to deliver measurable business outcomes. This role requires strong analytical skills, market intelligence, and the ability to manage complex supplier relationships across regions.
Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement category strategies for Transport & Transmission, focusing on cost savings, innovation, and risk mitigation.
• Drive organizational commitment to procurement goals through stakeholder alignment and leadership engagement.
• Lead strategic negotiations with global suppliers, leveraging market intelligence and cost modeling.
• Perform benchmarking and spend analysis to identify opportunities for efficiency and value creation.
• Collaborate within agile squads to deliver outcome-based initiatives and track performance metrics.
• Segment supply markets by region and service type, analyzing market economics and supplier cost structures.
• Identify levers to minimize Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), including payment terms, SLA management, and streamlined specifications.
• Monitor category performance, report progress, and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Share expertise within Strategic Procurement chapters to upskill team members and promote best practices.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management or Telecom Network Engineering (Postgraduate preferred).
• 7-11 years of relevant experience, including 3-5 years managing Transport & Transmission categories.
• Strong procurement and sourcing expertise with exposure to global markets.
• Understanding of emerging telecom and supply chain trends.
• Experience with ERP systems (Oracle preferred) and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Certifications such as CSCP, MCIPS, or Professional Scrum Master (PSM) are advantageous.
• Excellent English communication skills are mandatory.
• Additional languages such as Arabic, French, Spanish, or Portuguese are highly advantageous.

Skills Required