Procurement Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a unique global partnership of five institutions established with the mission to create a world free of poverty on a livable planet. Founded in 1944, the organization has grown to include 189 member countries and operates more than 120 offices worldwide. The World Bank is one of the largest sources of funding and knowledge for developing countries, focusing on solving the world’s greatest development challenges. The Europe and Central Asia (ECA) region, which is part of the World Bank's operations, comprises 30 diverse countries with a population of nearly 500 million people. The ECA region has an active portfolio of 245 projects with a net commitment of around US$52 billion, emphasizing the importance of knowledge in lending and advisory services. The World Bank Group aims to enhance service delivery and development outcomes through effective public procurement systems.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Specialist position is crucial for providing technical fiduciary advice on procurement activities and engaging in policy dialogue with client countries. The role involves supporting client countries in achieving value for money in public procurement, which is essential for enhancing service delivery and development outcomes with integrity. The Procurement Specialist will utilize analytical tools and approaches to understand relevant procurement markets and define more effective procurement strategies. This position requires participation in missions and the development of practical approaches to procurement while addressing complex policy and operational issues. The specialist will also prepare and comment on draft operational directives and policy papers, develop relationships with senior government officials to advance procurement policy dialogue, and transform these dialogues into concrete proposals that strengthen national procurement systems. Additionally, the role includes mentoring other stakeholders and developing training modules on complex procurement topics.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Procurement Specialist will be responsible for providing technical fiduciary advice on procurement activities, engaging in policy dialogue with client countries, and supporting them in achieving value for money in public procurement. The specialist will analyze procurement markets and utilize analytical tools to define effective procurement strategies. Participation in missions is required, where the specialist will develop practical approaches to procurement while addressing policy and operational challenges. Responsibilities also include preparing and commenting on operational directives and policy papers, building relationships with senior government officials, and transforming policy dialogues into actionable proposals. The role involves mentoring stakeholders and developing training modules on complex procurement topics, ensuring effective knowledge transfer and skills enhancement.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate high levels of integrity and possess an excellent command of English. An advanced degree in a relevant discipline such as business administration, engineering, commerce, law, procurement, or public policy is required, with a preference for a Master’s degree. Knowledge of international procurement concepts, principles, and practices is essential, along with the ability to translate these concepts into operational work. Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of direct relevant experience in procurement, either within or outside the World Bank, with international experience being desirable. The ability to navigate a multi-cultural environment and build effective working relationships with clients and colleagues is crucial.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced degree in a relevant field, such as business administration, engineering, commerce, law, procurement, or public policy. A Master’s degree is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and understanding of the complexities involved in procurement processes.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of direct relevant experience in procurement, which can be gained through roles in public or private sectors. Experience within international organizations or in a multi-cultural environment is highly desirable, as it demonstrates the ability to navigate complex procurement landscapes and engage with diverse stakeholders effectively.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English, which is essential for communication and documentation. Knowledge of Kosovar is preferred, as it may facilitate better engagement with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of procurement activities.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 3 years. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave, including parental leave. The organization is committed to being an equal opportunity and inclusive employer, ensuring that all individuals are treated fairly and without discrimination based on gender, gender identity, religion, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or disability.