Category Manager - Ground Operations

Summary

The Category Manager – Ground Operations Services & Equipment is the strategic procurement leader for all ground operations-related categories. This role owns the full procurement lifecycle for critical services and equipment, including ground handling, passenger wheelchair assistance, aircraft deicing, on-call maintenance, cleaning, and GSE. The mission is to assure that all airports have the services and equipment needed for safe and efficient operations while obtaining the best possible terms, conditions, and cost for the airline.

The role is both tactical and strategic: ensuring critical operational services run smoothly day-to-day while continually seeking improvements and savings that benefit the airline’s bottom line and operational reliability.

• Bachelor’s Degree in business, supply chain, finance, or related discipline.
• Authorized to work in the U.S. and must pass a criminal background check.
• Minimum five (5) years of procurement, contract negotiations, or a clear understanding of ground operations in aviation or transportation.
• Capacity to establish goals, measure performance, and maintain a safety and customer service focus.
• Excellent written and oral English skills and strong planning and organizational skills.

• MBA or advanced degree.
• Previous experience in airline or ground operations.
• Proven ability to set goals, measure vendor performance, and ensure service standards are met.
• Commitment to safety and customer service excellence.
• High proficiency in Microsoft Office and general IT ability.

• Develop and implement comprehensive procurement strategies for all Ground Operations Services & Equipment categories.
• Analyze spending patterns and market trends; identify cost reduction opportunities and risk mitigation.
• Set annual and multi‑year cost reduction targets and service level goals; drive supplier consolidation and long‑term agreements.
• Maintain procurement strategies aligned with operational forecasts and lifecycle management plans for GSE.
• Balance long‑term strategic initiatives with immediate operational demands and use Total Cost of Ownership principles.

• Lead major sourcing projects and execute RFPs for services and equipment.
• Prepare and negotiate high‑value or strategic contracts; evaluate proposals using financial and operational assessments.
• Maintain competitive pressure using market research; manage contract execution and renewals proactively.

• Own relationships with key suppliers; implement structured Supplier Performance Management processes.
• Define and monitor performance metrics; conduct business reviews and ensure swift corrective action.
• Prepare contingency arrangements and partner with Safety and Compliance teams for compliance and audit readiness.

• Act as the bridge between procurement and Ground Operations departments.
• Engage stakeholders early to gather requirements; communicate regularly about sourcing plans and project timelines.
• Advocate for strategic procurement value and provide consultative support on budgeting and cost forecasting.

• Lead a team of procurement professionals; set clear goals and performance expectations.
• Provide coaching, training, and mentorship to build team skills and encourage proactive, solution‑oriented approaches.
• Identify high‑potential talent and develop succession plans; create development plans aligned with organizational needs.

• Drive continuous improvement in procurement processes and ensure all activities adhere to company policies and industry regulations.
• Implement process enhancements, advocate for technology and data use, and incorporate Supplier Diversity and ESG objectives into category strategy.

• Deep understanding of category management, RFX development, bid analysis, and data analysis using advanced Excel and visualization tools.
• Hands‑on experience with procurement/ERP systems (SAP, Ariba) and e‑procurement software.

• Solid…