Category Buyer-Emirati Nationals

Job Title: Category Buyer
Company Name: Thales
Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Employment Type: FULL_TIME

Job Summary:
Thales is a global leader in aerospace, defense, security, transportation, and space, delivering innovative solutions that shape the future. Operating in the UAE for over 35 years with 300+ employees, Thales plays a key role in projects such as the Dubai Metro and advanced security systems at airports. We are seeking a Category Buyer (CB) to manage procurement categories, drive competitiveness, and strengthen supplier relationships, ensuring alignment with global and regional strategies.

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Support:

• Provide Business Analysts (BAs) with all necessary information to raise Purchase Orders efficiently.

Procurement Competitiveness:

• Conduct sourcing activities and market research for assigned categories, monitoring key players, industry trends, innovations, and regulations.

• Offer insights on enhancing competitiveness through alternative suppliers, methodologies, or technologies.

Governance & Performance Management:

• Apply appropriate governance using KPIs and corrective actions to ensure procurement excellence.

Supplier & Contract Management:

• Oversee supplier performance in line with Global Category Manager standards.

• Ensure supplier competitions are fair and aligned with governance processes.

• Lead contract activities, ensuring compliance with Thales policies and adoption of global frameworks.

• Support supplier development initiatives by providing resources and guidance to improve performance.

Work Experience Requirements:

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in engineering.

• Experience in project/program management, design, or product development with cross-functional teams.

• Exposure to bids, procurement, or negotiation processes is desirable.

Qualifications & Certifications:

• Diploma in Engineering (Electronics preferred).

• Experience or diploma in Procurement is a plus.

• Fluent in English; Arabic language skills desirable.

Preferred Skills:

Hard Skills:

• Engineering knowledge in electronics and associated products/services to support supplier negotiations.

• Experience in market surveys, sourcing, and operational supply chain strategy.

• Understanding of contracts, including framework agreements, liability, and insurance.

• Knowledge of best practices in procurement and acquisition processes.

Soft Skills:

• Strong teamwork skills for cross-functional and international environments.

• Open-minded, proactive, and able to contribute innovative ideas.

• Excellent analytical, prioritization, and communication skills.

• Ability to represent Thales professionally and uphold company values.

Why Join Thales:
At Thales, we offer careers—not just jobs. With 80,000 employees across 68 countries, our mobility policy encourages career growth locally and internationally. We embrace flexible working and provide opportunities to develop your expertise or explore new fields. Start your journey with us and shape the future!