Procurement Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization that operates in over 40 countries, dedicated to the belief that a better world is possible. Established in 1979, Mercy Corps focuses on providing assistance in disaster situations and in areas of hardship. The organization partners with local communities to implement bold solutions that help people overcome adversity and build stronger communities from within. In South Sudan, Mercy Corps has been active since 2005, working to support displaced and disenfranchised populations affected by ongoing conflict. The organization has received funding from various donors, including the UK Department for International Development (DFID - FCDO), Swiss Development Cooperation (SDC), European Union, NORAD, and private foundations, enabling it to empower communities to recover from crises and improve their livelihoods.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Specialist will play a crucial role in managing all procurement activities under the Sustainable Agricultural Development Project (SADEP). This position requires ensuring that procurement processes are timely, transparent, and compliant with both donor and organizational policies. The Procurement Specialist will be responsible for developing procurement plans, managing contracts, and providing technical guidance on procurement strategies. The role also involves maintaining procurement documentation and ensuring adherence to regulations, which is vital for the successful implementation of the SADEP project. The position demands strong organizational and communication skills, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with project staff and partners to forecast procurement needs accurately and manage multiple contracts efficiently.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Procurement Specialist will be responsible for the following duties:

• Procurement Planning and Execution: Plan, manage, and execute all procurement activities under the SADEP project, ensuring alignment with project objectives and work plans. Develop and maintain procurement schedules to guarantee timely availability of goods, works, and services. Coordinate with project staff and partners to accurately forecast procurement needs. Prepare and submit the General Procurement Notice (GPN) to IFAD for review. Lead the preparation of all procurement documents for goods, works, and services. Handle procurement communications with IFAD throughout the procurement process. Maintain detailed bid opening records and ensure prompt dissemination of opening minutes to all bidders and IFAD. Facilitate the establishment and orientation of evaluation committees.
• Contract Management and Compliance: Manage contracts with suppliers and service providers, ensuring compliance with terms and conditions. Ensure adherence to donor regulations and organizational policies. Maintain proper documentation for audits and accountability.
• Capacity Building and Advisory Support: Provide guidance and training to project staff and partners on procurement procedures. Advise project management on procurement strategy and risk mitigation. Promote transparency and integrity in procurement activities.
• Reporting and Documentation: Prepare regular procurement reports for project management and donors. Ensure accurate documentation of procurement records for audits. Maintain an updated Procurement Risk Register and a central procurement filing system.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Procurement Specialist position should possess the following qualifications: A Master's degree in Purchasing and Supply, Economics, Finance, Law, or an equivalent management qualification. A minimum of 8 years of experience in procurement and contract management, particularly in government-implemented projects funded by international donors such as AfDB, IFAD, and the World Bank. A sound understanding of procurement processes within the South Sudanese context and the relevant protocols for internationally financed programs. Advanced proficiency in MS Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Access. Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills are essential for success in this role.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a Master's degree in a relevant field such as Purchasing and Supply, Economics, Finance, Law, or an equivalent management qualification. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of procurement processes and contract management in an international context.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in procurement and contract management, specifically in projects funded by international donors. Candidates should have a strong understanding of procurement processes and regulations applicable in South Sudan, as well as experience in managing contracts and ensuring compliance with donor requirements.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for communication with international partners and stakeholders. Knowledge of local languages may be beneficial for engaging with local communities and stakeholders effectively.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Juba, South Sudan, and may require up to 40% field travel to support project delivery, including travel to insecure locations. The role is full-time, and Mercy Corps is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants. The organization emphasizes the importance of safeguarding and ethical conduct, requiring team members to adhere to a professional code of conduct and participate in mandatory training on safeguarding and ethics.