Business Support Assistant (Shipping)

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world's largest humanitarian organization, dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who work tirelessly to ensure effective humanitarian assistance reaches millions globally. WFP is recognized for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, highlighting its significant contributions to humanitarian efforts worldwide. WFP's mission is centered around the values of Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion, fostering a healthy and inclusive work environment for its employees. To learn more about WFP, visit their official website and follow them on various social media platforms for updates and news.

Job Overview:
The Business Support Assistant (Shipping) position at WFP is crucial for ensuring effective and efficient shipment planning and execution. The role involves monitoring shipments within assigned geographical areas, maintaining accurate records, and facilitating communication between various stakeholders, including Country Offices, shipping lines, and port authorities. The assistant will be responsible for compiling and presenting information to support decision-making processes and ensuring that all shipping-related documentation is organized and accessible. This position plays a vital role in supporting emergency preparedness and response activities, contributing to the timely movement of food and humanitarian supplies during crises. The ideal candidate will be expected to work collaboratively within a diverse team, embodying WFP's values and commitment to humanitarian assistance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Business Support Assistant (Shipping) include:

• Performing standardized processes and activities to support shipment planning and execution.
• Monitoring shipments at load and discharge ports, updating corporate systems to record shipment progress, and escalating issues as necessary.
• Supporting communication and information exchange with Country Offices, shipping lines, freight forwarders, and port authorities to facilitate shipping operations.
• Researching, compiling, and presenting information in standard formats to support informed decision-making by Shipping Associates and Officers.
• Updating and maintaining databases and records related to contracts, shipments, payments, and pipeline activities.
• Supporting risk mitigation activities by reviewing shipment data and documentation, identifying discrepancies, and escalating issues.
• Responding to queries and requests for support, ensuring timely and accurate resolution.
• Maintaining an efficient filing system for shipping documents and records.
• Contributing to emergency preparedness and response activities. 1
• Carrying out any other related tasks as assigned by the Line Manager to support shipping and supply chain operations.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Business Support Assistant (Shipping) position include a post-secondary certificate or diploma in a relevant field, along with at least two years of relevant professional shipping experience. Candidates should possess strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment. Familiarity with logistics and supply chain operations, as well as experience in monitoring shipments and maintaining accurate records, is essential. Additionally, candidates should have experience in compiling data and preparing reports, as well as liaising with logistics service providers and internal stakeholders.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a post-secondary certificate or diploma in a relevant field. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate possesses the foundational knowledge required for the shipping and logistics operations involved in this role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have at least two years of relevant professional experience in shipping, logistics, customs clearance, or transport operations. Experience in monitoring shipments, maintaining accurate records, and providing administrative support in a logistics environment is highly desirable. Familiarity with corporate databases and systems used for tracking shipments and contracts is also important.

Languages:
Fluency in French (level C) and intermediate knowledge of English (level B) is mandatory, or fluency in English (level C) with intermediate knowledge of French (level B). Proficiency in both languages is essential for effective communication within the multicultural environment of WFP and for liaising with various stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is a Service Contract (SC4) for a duration of 12 months, based in Douala, Cameroon. WFP is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. The organization emphasizes an inclusive work environment and does not charge any fees during the application process. Candidates are encouraged to apply through the online recruiting system, ensuring that their profiles are complete and accurate. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stages of the recruitment process.