Procurement Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank is a global development cooperative established to provide financial and technical assistance to developing countries. Founded in 1944, it is owned by 189 member countries and is the largest development bank in the world. The organization aims to reduce poverty and support development by providing loans, guarantees, risk management products, and advisory services. The World Bank operates in various regions, including the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, addressing a wide range of development challenges. The organization is committed to advancing inclusive, sustainable, and resilient development through strategic initiatives that respond to crises while promoting structural reforms and job creation.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting the Country Management Unit's (CMU) work program in Pakistan. This position requires a strong understanding of economic and public-sector governance issues, as well as extensive operational experience. The specialist will engage with various stakeholders, including government counterparts and international organizations, to ensure effective procurement practices. The role involves organizing procurement services, conducting reviews of procurement documents, providing technical advice, and supporting clients in achieving value for money in public procurement. The specialist will also be responsible for developing training modules and capacity-building workshops, ensuring that procurement strategies are effective and aligned with the World Bank's objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Procurement Specialist will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Organizing and delivering procurement services within the CMU, ensuring adherence to fiduciary and quality controls.
• Conducting independent reviews of procurement aspects of Bank documents, such as Project Appraisal Documents and Legal Agreements.
• Collaborating with procurement colleagues to ensure consistency in procurement approaches across the region.
• Providing technical fiduciary advice on procurement activities and engaging in policy dialogue to enhance procurement systems.
• Supporting clients in achieving value for money in public procurement, enhancing service delivery and development outcomes.
• Analyzing relevant procurement markets to define effective procurement strategies.
• Participating in missions and developing practical approaches to procurement while addressing policy and operational issues.
• Preparing high-quality procurement reports and operational directives.
• Developing and executing training modules on procurement topics. 1
• Conducting Fiduciary Assessments and maintaining an up-to-date procurement portfolio. 1
• Utilizing electronic tools to track exchanges with clients and performance metrics. 1
• Designing and delivering capacity-building workshops for Bank staff and stakeholders. 1
• Providing Hands-on Expanded Implementation Support when requested.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in a relevant discipline such as Engineering, Law, Procurement, Finance, Business, or Commerce. Additionally, a minimum of 5 years of experience as a Procurement Specialist or in a role with substantial procurement responsibilities is required. Candidates should have a strong understanding of international procurement principles and practices, including concepts such as Value for Money, sustainable procurement, and strategic sourcing. Experience with World Bank procurement procedures is advantageous. Candidates must demonstrate analytical skills, effective communication abilities, and a high level of integrity.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree in a relevant field is required for this position. This could include degrees in Engineering, Law, Procurement, Finance, Business, or Commerce. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in the principles and practices governing procurement, as well as an understanding of economic and public-sector governance.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience as a Procurement Specialist or in a similar role with significant procurement responsibilities. Candidates should have experience in international procurement and a strong understanding of the World Bank's business objectives and project cycle. Experience in engaging with government officials and stakeholders in a multi-cultural environment is essential.

Languages:
The mandatory language requirement for this position is oral and written mastery of English. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required for this role.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 4 years. The role is based in Islamabad, Pakistan, and involves working closely with a team of procurement specialists and analysts. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including a retirement plan, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates.