Senior Procurement Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a prominent global partnership consisting of five institutions dedicated to addressing the most pressing development challenges faced by countries around the world. Established with the mission to end extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity, the organization has grown to include 189 member countries and operates over 120 offices globally. The World Bank Group is recognized as one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing nations, leveraging data, research, and technology to implement innovative solutions. The organization is committed to sustainable development and works closely with both public and private sector partners to invest in transformative projects that drive economic growth and improve living standards.

Job Overview:
The Senior Procurement Specialist position is a critical role within the Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) Region Procurement Unit of the World Bank. This position is designed for a full-time, locally recruited professional who will be based in Kingston, Jamaica. The primary responsibilities of the Senior Procurement Specialist include overseeing procurement operations conducted by Borrowers and their implementing agencies across 33 client countries in the region. The role involves providing hands-on support to Borrowers in reforming their public procurement systems to achieve better value for money. The Senior Procurement Specialist will be integral to the ambitious Operational Procurement Change Program, which aims to enhance procurement practices and foster sustainable engagement with the private sector. The position requires a proactive approach to managing procurement tasks, engaging with stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with the Bank's fiduciary standards and obligations. The Specialist will also be involved in project preparation, implementation support, and supervision, making this a dynamic and impactful role within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Procurement Specialist will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: working independently on procurement matters, employing methodologies for handling procurement tasks, supporting Borrowers in engaging with suppliers, identifying procurement processes for early business engagement, reviewing technical, commercial, and legal aspects of procurement, providing operational advice to clients, participating in missions as the sole procurement expert, conducting country procurement assessments, negotiating and resolving procurement issues, designing and conducting workshops for procurement professionals, preparing procurement-related documents and reports, establishing interactions with country counterparts, and providing guidance and training to junior staff. The role requires frequent interaction with various stakeholders, including managers, technical specialists, and external partners, to ensure effective procurement practices are upheld throughout the project lifecycle.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in a relevant discipline such as Law, Engineering, Procurement, Finance, Business, or Commerce, or an equivalent academic qualification. Additionally, a minimum of eight years of direct relevant professional experience in procurement operations and contract management within International Financial Institutions is required. Strong oral and written communication skills in English are essential, along with the ability to prepare and edit technical reports. Proven experience working in Latin America and the Caribbean as a procurement expert is highly valued. Candidates should have a solid understanding of international procurement concepts, principles, and practices, as well as the ability to translate these into operational work. Excellent interpersonal skills, flexibility, and the ability to work in a multi-cultural environment are also critical for success in this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in a relevant field such as Law, Engineering, Procurement, Finance, Business, or Commerce. This advanced degree should provide the candidate with a strong foundation in the principles and practices of procurement, contract management, and financial operations, which are essential for effectively navigating the complexities of procurement within the context of international development.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of eight years of direct relevant professional experience in procurement operations and contract management, specifically within International Financial Institutions. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing procurement processes, engaging with stakeholders, and delivering results in complex environments. Experience in the Latin America and Caribbean region is particularly advantageous, as it demonstrates familiarity with the unique challenges and opportunities present in these markets.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, as it is essential for communication and documentation within the World Bank and with Borrowers. Additionally, proficiency in Spanish, Portuguese, or French is preferred, as these languages can enhance the Specialist's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders and clients in the region.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a contract duration of four years, as per the Bank's policy. The recruitment type is local, meaning that candidates must be residents of Jamaica or have the legal right to work in the country. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life, and disability insurance, as well as paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all employees are treated fairly and equitably, regardless of gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability. The selected candidate may be required to travel frequently as part of their role.