Procurement Associate

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 extreme weather. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who are committed to the mission of alleviating hunger and improving nutrition. WFP is recognized for its efforts and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, highlighting its significant contributions to global humanitarian efforts. The organization values diversity and inclusion, encouraging individuals from all backgrounds to apply for positions within its ranks. WFP is committed to creating a work environment that is inclusive and supportive, where employees can thrive and contribute to the organization's mission.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Associate position is crucial for providing specialized support in the procurement of goods and services, particularly in the logistics-operations" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">logistics operations related to health commodities. This role involves ensuring the effective planning, movement, and distribution of essential items, thereby contributing to the overall supply chain management within the organization. The incumbent will be responsible for overseeing end-to-end supply chain activities, ensuring compliance with organizational standards, and maintaining the availability of commodities across Liberia. The position requires a proactive approach to operational coordination, ensuring that procurement and delivery processes are executed efficiently and cost-effectively. The Procurement Associate will play a key role in facilitating the timely acquisition and delivery of goods and services, which is vital for the success of WFP's mission in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Procurement Associate include:

• Logistics and Distribution Management: Coordinating and supervising the distribution of medicines and health commodities across Liberia, supporting transport planning, route scheduling, and delivery monitoring. The incumbent will also monitor transporter performance, verify proof of delivery, and maintain traceability of commodities throughout the supply chain.
• Procurement Operations: Reviewing and prioritizing procurement requests, supporting sourcing activities, preparing solicitation documents, and contributing to negotiations with suppliers. The role involves compiling and analyzing supplier quotations and preparing purchase orders and contracts.
• Supply Chain Planning and Coordination: Coordinating with various teams to ensure effective supply chain execution, facilitating information sharing, and supporting the implementation of supply chain improvement initiatives.
• Performance Monitoring and Reporting: Maintaining accurate procurement and logistics records, collecting and analyzing operational data, and preparing various reports to monitor supply chain performance.
• Risk Management and Compliance: Monitoring procurement and logistics risks, ensuring compliance with organizational requirements, and supporting audit exercises.
• Team Leadership and Capacity Strengthening: Supervising logistics support staff, providing technical guidance, and promoting a culture of safety and accountability within the team.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a university degree in Supply Chain Management, Procurement, Logistics, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field. Candidates must possess a minimum of six years of progressively responsible professional experience in procurement, logistics, supply chain, transportation, warehousing, or distribution operations. Experience in supplier management, procurement processes, and contract administration is essential, along with experience in coordinating field operations and supervising support staff. Familiarity with ERP and supply chain information management systems is desirable.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a university degree in a relevant field such as Supply Chain Management, Procurement, Logistics, Business Administration, or Operations Management. This educational background is critical for understanding the complexities of procurement and logistics operations within a humanitarian context.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least six years of relevant professional experience in procurement, logistics, supply chain management, or related fields. This experience should include a strong focus on supplier management, procurement processes, and contract administration, as well as experience in coordinating field operations and supervising logistics support staff. Familiarity with ERP systems and supply chain information management is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders and partners in the field.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and is based in Monrovia, Liberia. The role involves significant responsibilities in managing logistics and procurement operations, and the successful candidate will be expected to contribute to the effective delivery of health commodities across the country. WFP offers an attractive compensation package, and the organization is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive work environment. The recruitment process is open to qualified candidates from diverse backgrounds, and WFP emphasizes the importance of equal employment opportunities.