Supply & Logistics Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of children worldwide. With a mission to ensure that every child has the opportunity to survive, develop, and reach their full potential, UNICEF operates in over 150 countries, focusing on the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families. The organization emphasizes equity and aims to address the inequalities that violate children's rights, as outlined in the Convention on the Rights of the Child. UNICEF's work encompasses various sectors, including health, education, protection, and emergency response, making it a vital player in global efforts to improve children's lives.

Job Overview:
The Supply & Logistics Specialist position is critical in managing supply chain activities for UNICEF's emergency response to the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This role involves overseeing logistics operations, ensuring the timely procurement, transportation, and distribution of essential supplies such as personal protective equipment (PPE), medical commodities, and emergency response kits. The specialist will work closely with implementing partners to assess their logistics capacities, identify gaps, and provide technical support to enhance their supply chain management. The position requires a proactive approach to ensure compliance with UNICEF policies and to maintain the availability of lifesaving supplies in challenging environments. The specialist will also be responsible for monitoring supply end-user accountability and conducting capacity-building initiatives for partners to strengthen their logistics operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Implementing Partner Supply & Logistics Capacity Assessment: Lead assessments of partners' logistics systems, identify gaps, and develop action plans to enhance their capacities. Monitor the implementation of corrective actions and provide ongoing technical support.
• Supply End-User Monitoring and Accountability: Design and implement monitoring activities for UNICEF-funded supplies, conduct field visits, verify stock records, and document findings to ensure accountability and reduce losses.
• Warehousing and Inventory Management Support: Assist in maintaining effective warehousing operations, promote compliance with management standards, conduct assessments, and ensure timely reporting on stock status and inventory accuracy.
• Capacity Building of Implementing Partners: Design and deliver training on logistics and supply chain management, develop tools and procedures, and mentor partner personnel to enhance their capabilities.
• Coordination and Programme Support: Facilitate coordination between Supply & Logistics and Programme Sections, participate in meetings, and contribute to logistics reports and updates.
• Emergency Supply Chain Support: Plan and monitor the delivery of essential Ebola response commodities, assist in tracking logistics indicators, and support emergency preparedness activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong leadership and coordination skills, particularly in emergency settings. They should demonstrate excellent stakeholder management and negotiation abilities, along with the capacity to provide technical guidance and capacity building to partners. Strong planning, prioritization, and decision-making skills are essential, as well as the ability to manage multiple operational priorities in rapidly changing contexts. Problem-solving and analytical skills are crucial, along with the ability to work independently in high-risk environments.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in logistics, supply chain management, business administration, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or certifications in relevant areas will be considered an asset.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in supply chain management, logistics, or related fields, with a focus on emergency response operations. Experience working in humanitarian contexts, particularly in complex emergencies, is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while proficiency in French is highly desirable. Knowledge of local languages spoken in the Democratic Republic of the Congo would be an advantage.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Beni, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and may involve working in challenging and potentially hazardous conditions. Candidates should be prepared for a high level of cultural awareness and flexibility, as well as the ability to adapt to physical hardships and limited comfort. The role is full-time and may require international recruitment.