Job Purpose:

- Execute strategic procurement strategies for aircraft BFE, SFE, MRO, service providers, and related contracts aligned with Air India Group business goals.

- Lead RFPs, negotiations, and contract management.

- Drive cost optimization initiatives while ensuring quality and regulatory compliance.

- Build relationships with key aviation stakeholders to identify strategic partnership opportunities.

- Evaluate suppliers for alignment with Air India's standards and requirements.

- Monitor industry, market, and regulatory developments to identify risks and opportunities.

Key Accountabilities:

Strategic Procurement:

- Implement strategic procurement plans aligned with Air India's Group business objectives.

- Identify cost-saving and value optimization opportunities.

- Analyze market trends, supplier capabilities, competitor benchmarking, and industry dynamics to inform procurement strategies.

- Stay informed of industry developments and emerging technologies.

- Lead RFPs and contract negotiations for engineering items including components, base/line maintenance, wheels and brakes, landing gear, APUs, tyres, and ground handling services.

- Lead RFPs and negotiations for BFE and SFE requirements including seats, inflight entertainment systems, connectivity systems, avionics, galley equipment, safety equipment, and related aircraft requirements.

- Prepare reports and presentations for approvals.

Supplier Management:

- Manage supplier relationships and support contract negotiations.

- Monitor supplier performance against delivery, quality, and contractual commitments.

- Conduct supplier evaluations and drive performance improvement initiatives.

- Participate in industry events to identify suppliers, technologies, products, and services.

Financial Analysis and Negotiation:

- Develop supplier evaluation models, conduct commercial and financial analysis, assess competing technologies and products, and provide recommendations.

- Benchmark pricing, payment terms, and commercial conditions against market standards.

- Negotiate commercial terms with manufacturers, service providers, and MROs.

Compliance and Risk Management:

- Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, industry standards, and internal procurement policies.

- Collaborate with Legal, Finance, and user departments to finalize contracts.

- Additional responsibilities may be assigned from time to time as project-based or ongoing work, as agreed between the incumbent, reporting officer, and HR.

Skills/Qualities Required:

- Strategic Procurement Planning

- Supplier Relationship Building

- Negotiation and Contract Management

- Regulatory Compliance Assurance

- Financial Analysis and Modeling

- Risk Mitigation Strategy

Educational and Experience Requirements:

Minimum Education Requirements:

- Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Supply Chain Management, or related field.

- Master's degree, MBA, or CA preferred.

Experience:

- Minimum: 3 - 5 years of experience in procurement, engineering, MRO, aircraft contracts, or related aviation roles.

- Desired: 5 - 7+ years of procurement experience focused on aircraft contracts, including complex negotiations and supplier relationship management.