Commodity Manager

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established in 1979, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries worldwide, partnering with communities to implement bold solutions that help people overcome adversity and build stronger communities. The organization has a significant presence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) since 2007, employing more than 300 national and expatriate staff. Mercy Corps works with over 40 partners to reach millions of people in various provinces, providing essential services in water, sanitation, hygiene, economic development, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security.

Job Overview:
The Commodity Manager is a pivotal role within Mercy Corps, responsible for the comprehensive management of Title II commodities as part of the Graduating to Sustainable Agriculture, Income, Nutrition, and Food Security (GAINS) Resilience Food Security Activity (RFSA). This position is crucial for managing the receipt, utilization, and tracking of U.S. food commodities, ensuring that vulnerable households and communities achieve and maintain food, nutrition, and economic security. The Commodity Manager will oversee all supply chain activities, including procurement, logistics, transportation, warehousing, distribution, and reporting, to guarantee effective and efficient delivery of goods and services to those in need. The role demands a proactive approach to anticipating supply chain needs and challenges, implementing improvement solutions, and ensuring compliance with donor regulations and organizational policies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Commodity Manager will be responsible for preparing strategies for food aid programs, establishing accurate commodity tracking systems, managing procurement and logistics needs, coordinating with freight forwarders and customs agents, ensuring accountability and transparency in supply chain operations, managing logistics infrastructure, overseeing inventory control, and conducting regular monitoring and evaluation of commodity management. The role also includes providing training to staff and local NGOs, fostering a respectful work environment, promoting capacity building, and ensuring compliance with donor requirements. The Commodity Manager will represent Mercy Corps in various forums, maintain relationships with stakeholders, and actively participate in coordination meetings.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as supply chain management or food science, along with seven years of relevant professional experience, including at least five years in field-based roles. Extensive experience in managing in-kind food supply chains in fragile contexts is essential, as is familiarity with product quality and safety, warehouse management, and transport coordination. Specific Title II experience is strongly preferred, along with strong networking and stakeholder engagement skills. Fluency in French is required, and professional proficiency in English is highly preferred. Experience with U.S. Government Title II regulations is desirable, as is the ability to work effectively in diverse teams.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant academic field is required, with a focus on areas such as supply chain management, food science, or related disciplines. Advanced degrees may be advantageous but are not explicitly required.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant professional experience, with at least five years in field-based roles. Candidates should have extensive experience managing food supply chains, particularly in fragile contexts, and demonstrate a strong understanding of logistics and commodity management.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken French is mandatory for this position, while professional proficiency in English is highly preferred. Knowledge of additional languages may be beneficial but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Kasai Province, which is classified as an unaccompanied and hardship duty station. Living conditions in Tshikapa, the capital of Kasai Province, are challenging, with limited infrastructure and services. Mercy Corps offers a competitive benefits package, and staff are expected to demonstrate professionalism and cultural sensitivity at all times. The role may involve travel to remote locations with basic living conditions, and staff must adhere to security protocols due to the heightened security risks in the region.