Procurement Officer

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 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 for its work in combating hunger and promoting peace.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Officer position at WFP is crucial for ensuring the timely and compliant procurement of food commodities and non-food goods and services. The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the Head of Procurement and will coordinate closely with various functional units, including Programme and Logistics. This role is designed for a highly independent individual who can execute procurement actions while adhering to WFP's rules and ethical standards. The officer will be responsible for collecting, analyzing, and reporting information to maximize the efficiency of procurement operations, which is essential in a complex environment characterized by multiple stakeholders and frequent emergency responses. The position also involves supporting the training of WFP staff to adopt a strategic approach to procurement, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of WFP's operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Procurement Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: developing procurement plans and processes in compliance with WFP standards; managing procurement programs and operational activities such as issuing tenders, evaluating offers, and negotiating contracts; executing end-to-end procurement actions for both food and non-food portfolios; coordinating with inspection firms and internal quality counterparts to ensure compliance with specifications; producing timely category dashboards and market intelligence; tracking and analyzing procurement data to provide recommendations for process improvements; preparing accurate reports of procurement activities; collaborating with internal and external partners to align procurement activities with wider programs; supporting the training of WFP staff; guiding and supervising junior staff; and acting as Officer-in-Charge during the absence of the Head of Procurement.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Economics, Commerce, Business Administration, Engineering, Legal, Accounting, or a related field. Alternatively, a first university degree with an additional two years of relevant work experience and/or training/courses is acceptable. The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant postgraduate experience related to procurement activities, demonstrating a solid understanding of procurement processes and compliance.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as Economics, Commerce, Business Administration, Engineering, Legal, or Accounting. Candidates with a first university degree must also have two additional years of related work experience or training to qualify for the role. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of procurement operations and ensuring compliance with WFP standards.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of three years of relevant postgraduate experience in procurement activities. This experience should include conducting cost analyses, managing vendor relationships, and executing procurement processes. Familiarity with emergency response procurement is also advantageous, as the role may involve responding to urgent needs in crisis situations.

Languages:
Fluency in English (level C) is mandatory for this position. Additionally, candidates should have intermediate knowledge (level B) of a second official UN language, which may include Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish, or Portuguese. Proficiency in these languages is beneficial for effective communication within the diverse WFP environment.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in the Palestine Country Office and operates within WFP’s Supply Chain function. It is a full-time role that may involve temporary delegation of responsibilities as Officer-in-Charge during the absence of the Head of Procurement. The WFP offers a highly inclusive and multicultural working environment, along with an attractive compensation package. The organization is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. Candidates are encouraged to apply without regard to race, gender, or other personal characteristics, as WFP values diversity and equal opportunity.