Category Manager Production Operations, Maintenance, Engineering & Projects (POMEP) at Sahara Group

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement category strategies for production, maintenance, and engineering materials and services, ensuring alignment with operational and corporate objectives.
• Develop and implement category strategies for projects, construction, and facilities procurement, aligned with corporate objectives and project timelines.
• Identify, qualify, and manage suppliers, including local and international vendors, to meet technical, quality, and Nigerian Content (NOGICD) requirements.
• Negotiate and administer contracts for mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, and civil engineering goods and services to secure optimal value.
• Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to understand technical specifications, maintenance schedules, and facility requirements.
• Monitor supplier performance and service delivery, implementing corrective actions where necessary to maintain reliability and compliance.
• Conduct market intelligence and cost benchmarking to optimize spend, evaluate bids, and support procurement decisions.
• Ensure compliance with procurement policies, HSE standards, and regulatory requirements, including NOGICD Act obligations.
• Maintain accurate data and reporting on spend, supplier performance, and category metrics for decision-making.
• Support maintenance planning and operational readiness by ensuring timely availability of materials, spares, and services.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and strengthen supplier relationships.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, electrical, instrumentation & control, or civil engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Postgraduate qualification (MSc/MBA) in Supply Chain Management, Procurement, or Engineering Management is advantageous.
• Professional certifications such as CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply), APICS/CPIM, or PMI are a plus.
• Minimum of 12 years of relevant experience in Mechanical, Electrical, or Instrumentation & Control Engineering with strong exposure to production, maintenance, and engineering procurement activities in the upstream oil and gas industry,
• Hands-on experience with local and international suppliers, including Nigerian Content (NOGICD) compliance.
• Experience in contract negotiation, cost optimization, and procurement governance in a regulated E&P environment.
• Familiarity with ERP procurement systems (SAP, Oracle) and asset integrity/maintenance planning is preferred.

Skills and Competencies

• Solid knowledge of production, maintenance, and engineering operations within infrastructure-intensive industries.
• Strong proficiency in applicable industry standards and regulatory reporting requirements.
• Demonstrated competence in cost engineering and cost management practices.
• Excellent command of the English language, both written and verbal.
• Proficient in standard business productivity tools, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Familiarity with enterprise and in-house systems such as Oracle Fusion and related platforms.
• Strong analytical rigor and critical thinking skills, with an open mindset and a commitment to knowledge sharing.
• Proven leadership capability with effective listening, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Sound negotiation skills, a collaborative team spirit, and the ability to work effectively across functions.
• Strong commercial awareness and business acumen.