HQ Procurement Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an international, independent, medical humanitarian organization that was established to deliver emergency aid to individuals affected by armed conflict, epidemics, healthcare exclusion, and natural disasters. MSF operates globally, with 24 sections, 28 associations, and 19 branch offices, providing assistance based solely on need, without regard to race, religion, gender, or political affiliation. Registered in Switzerland, MSF International serves as the legal entity that binds the various sections and offices together, offering coordination, information, and support to the MSF Movement while implementing international projects and initiatives as required.

Job Overview:
The HQ Procurement Advisor position is situated within the Global Procurement Unit (GPU) of MSF International. This role is critical as procurement of products and services constitutes approximately half of MSF's operational expenses. The GPU has been established to enhance procurement functions, streamline activities, and improve compliance, efficiency, and risk management across the organization. The advisor will be responsible for fostering the professionalization of procurement activities at the headquarters level, ensuring that procurement processes are efficient, accountable, and aligned with MSF's social mission. The advisor will provide technical and strategic support to HQs, adapt and monitor procurement processes, and participate in the development of the indirect procurement community.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The main responsibilities of the HQ Procurement Advisor include:

• Providing technical and strategic support to HQs, including assessing procurement maturity and advising on structuring procurement processes.
• Adapting and monitoring procurement processes and tools to support HQ activities, analyzing current practices, and liaising with the global procurement team for necessary adaptations.
• Participating in the development of the indirect procurement community by creating networks among HQs and indirect category buyers, sharing best practices, and facilitating access to resources.
• Performing procurement activities as needed, which includes analyzing spending, identifying strategic suppliers, leading tenders, guiding departments in needs analysis and sourcing, and supporting supplier relationships. The advisor will also be responsible for ensuring that procurement strategies align with the global indirect procurement strategy and the specific needs of the HQs.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong analytical skills, excellent communication abilities, and a deep understanding of procurement processes. They should be able to work collaboratively with various stakeholders and demonstrate a commitment to MSF's humanitarian mission. Additionally, candidates should have experience in procurement or supply chain management, with a focus on indirect procurement. Proficiency in using procurement tools and software is also essential, along with the ability to adapt to changing environments and requirements.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in business administration, supply chain management, or a related field is required. A master's degree or additional certifications in procurement or supply chain management would be advantageous. Candidates should have a solid understanding of procurement principles and practices, as well as relevant legal and regulatory frameworks.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 3-5 years of experience in procurement or supply chain management, preferably within a humanitarian or non-profit organization. Experience in managing procurement processes at a strategic level and familiarity with international procurement standards are highly desirable. The ability to work in a multicultural environment and adapt to diverse operational contexts is also important.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in French is highly desirable. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to MSF's operational contexts would be considered an asset, as it would enhance communication with various stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract until March 2027, with a starting date as soon as possible. The successful candidate will be offered a contract in the MSF office of their country of residence at the time of application. The role is full-time, and MSF offers a competitive compensation and benefits package in line with the practices of the MSF entity establishing the contract.