Head of Supplier Relationship Management

Job description

Suppliers are critical enablers of Etihad's growth, transformation, and operational resilience. As Head of Supplier Relationship Management , you will lead the design and execution of Etihad's enterprise-wide SRM strategy, transforming how the airline collaborates with its most strategic suppliers to create value, drive innovation, and protect business performance. This is a high-impact leadership role responsible for establishing a business-led, procurement-enabled SRM model, creating an SRM Centre of Excellence, and leading a large-scale transformation programme across approximately $8bn of annual spend and a multi-billion-dollar capital investment pipeline. You will drive supplier governance at executive level, embed robust performance and risk management frameworks, and leverage digital, data, and AI capabilities to shape the future of supplier partnerships across the group. Key Responsibilities Lead Etihad's enterprise-wide SRM transformation programme and SRM Centre of Excellence. Design and implement a business-led, procurement-enabled SRM framework that supports the airline's growth strategy. Establish supplier segmentation, performance, risk, and governance frameworks that maximise value and minimise value leakage. Lead executive-level engagement and strategic reviews with critical suppliers and internal stakeholders. Drive supplier performance through clear KPIs, governance, and disciplined review cadences. Own the SRM digital ecosystem, including Supplier 360, data analytics, and AI-enabled insights. Build organisational capability and lead a high-performing team to embed world-class SRM practices across the business. About You You are a senior procurement, supplier management, or transformation leader with a proven track record of delivering enterprise-wide change in complex global organisations. You bring deep expertise in Supplier Relationship Management, executive stakeholder engagement, digital enablement, and value creation through strategic supplier partnerships. You have significant experience within an airline, aviation, aerospace, airport, MRO, OEM, aviation services provider, or broader aviation ecosystem environment , with a strong understanding of the strategic supplier landscape, operational dependencies, regulatory requirements, and complexities of a global aviation network. You have successfully led large-scale transformation programmes, established governance and performance frameworks, and influenced senior stakeholders to deliver measurable commercial and operational value. At least 10 years of relevant experience, with at least 3 years in leadership roles, in the aviation industry Demonstrated ability to design and run enterprise-wide SRM, procurement or transformation programmes Master of Business Administration or related post-graduate qualification; certification in Lean Six Sigma or Programme and Project Offices (P3O) desirable Demonstrated ability to influence executive leadership (CXOs within Etihad and external organisations) and secure optimal outcomes in a complex, operational environment Strategic, analytical and commercially astute, with strong contract negotiation and financial management skills Experience embedding digital, data and AI into core procurement or SRM ways of working desirable Strong people leadership and relationship-management skills, able to influence at all levels to drive outcomes Etihad Airways is more than the UAE’s national airline - we’re shaping the future of global aviation. From our hub in Abu Dhabi, we connect people across continents and cultures, while driving our “Journey 2030” ambition to double our fleet, expand our network and grow our people for a new era of excellence. Join us and become part of a vision where the world is your workplace and extraordinary experiences take flight. To learn more visit Recruitment Fraud Alert Beware of fraudulent job offers from individuals or organizations claiming to represent the Etihad group. We will never ask for personal information, bank details, or payment during the recruitment process. Interviews are conducted face-to-face or via video/telephone before any formal offer. If you are asked for money, please treat it as fraudulent.