Procurement and Supply Management Director

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), which is a regional office of the World Health Organization (WHO). PAHO was established in 1902 and has a mission to improve health and living standards in the Americas. The organization operates in 35 countries and territories across the Americas, employing a diverse workforce dedicated to public health. PAHO focuses on various health issues, including disease prevention, health promotion, and emergency response, and works closely with member states to enhance health systems and policies.

Job Overview:
The position of Procurement and Supply Management Director involves overseeing the procurement operations for PAHO, particularly in relation to vaccines and essential health-related products. The incumbent will be responsible for developing procurement strategies that align with organizational goals, ensuring competitive procurement practices, and managing vendor relationships. This role requires a deep understanding of market dynamics and the ability to negotiate effectively with suppliers to ensure the availability and affordability of health commodities. The director will also lead a team of strategic buyers and work collaboratively with various stakeholders, including technical units and country offices, to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of procurement processes. The position demands a proactive approach to identifying procurement needs and addressing potential challenges in supply chains, especially during emergencies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Procurement and Supply Management Director include:

• Managing the development of procurement goals and strategies in collaboration with technical units and stakeholders.
• Leading the execution of strategic procurement plans aligned with organizational objectives.
• Ensuring the quality and accuracy of work by strategic buyers.
• Defining negotiation strategies and leading negotiations with suppliers.
• Supporting supplier management with a focus on quality assurance and price competitiveness.
• Establishing partnerships across the organization and with external stakeholders.
• Leading procurement operations for the Regional Revolving Fund.
• Monitoring compliance with procurement quality management systems.
• Supervising the procurement team and fostering a learning environment. 1
• Providing technical cooperation to country offices and government authorities. 1
• Monitoring product quality and compliance with established standards. 1
• Offering advisory support on procurement strategic planning. 1
• Providing technical guidance during emergency situations. 1
• Performing other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for this position include a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in business administration, economics, public administration, or a related field. A professional certification in Supply Chain Management or Procurement is desirable. Candidates must have a strong ethical approach to work, demonstrate integrity, and possess excellent communication and teamwork skills. They should also have the ability to manage multiple priorities and navigate complex organizational environments.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from a recognized university in fields related to business administration, economics, or public administration. Additionally, a certification in Supply Chain Management or Procurement is considered an asset. The degrees must be from accredited institutions recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
Candidates should have at least nine years of combined national and international experience in strategic procurement, with expertise in category management, negotiation, and supplier relationship management. Experience in supervising teams and a proven track record of managing and developing staff is essential. Desirable experience includes working within a public health context or the international pharmaceutical market.

Languages:
Very good knowledge of English or Spanish is mandatory, with a working knowledge of the other language. Knowledge of French and/or Portuguese is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The position offers an annual salary of US $84,672.00, with a post adjustment of 55.8%, which may vary due to currency exchange rates. The role is subject to PAHO Staff Regulations and may involve international mobility. Benefits include 30 days of annual leave, dependency benefits, a pension plan, and health insurance. Candidates will be required to complete an online profile to be considered for the position, and only those under serious consideration will be contacted for interviews.