Procurement Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who are committed to the mission of alleviating hunger and improving nutrition. WFP's vision is to create a diverse, skilled, and high-performing workforce that operates in a healthy and inclusive environment, living by its core values of Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion. WFP has been recognized for its efforts, being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, and continues to strive for excellence in humanitarian assistance through collaboration with various partners.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Officer position at WFP is crucial for enhancing the efficiency of procurement operations and activities. The role involves collecting, analyzing, and reporting on procurement-related information to ensure that WFP can effectively meet its food assistance needs. The officer will support procurement programs and operational activities, including issuing tenders, evaluating offers, and negotiating contracts. This position requires a proactive approach to procurement, ensuring that food and non-food commodities are acquired in a timely and efficient manner. The officer will also contribute to the analysis of procurement data, providing recommendations for process improvements, and ensuring compliance with established rules and regulations. The role is based in Cotonou and reports directly to the Head of the Supply Chain Unit, making it integral to the overall success of WFP's mission in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Procurement Officer will be responsible for a variety of key accountabilities, including but not limited to: supporting procurement programs and operational activities by issuing tenders, evaluating offers, and negotiating and awarding contracts; contributing to the analysis of procurement data to provide recommendations for process improvements; collating data and preparing accurate and timely reports on procurement activities; supporting the auditing of procurement activities by gathering necessary information; collaborating closely with internal counterparts to align procurement activities with broader programs; training WFP staff on strategic procurement approaches; guiding and supervising junior staff; following emergency preparedness practices to ensure rapid response capabilities; and acting in an emergency response capacity as required. The role may also involve other duties as assigned to meet the needs of the organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Procurement Officer position must possess an advanced university degree in Economics, Commerce, Business Administration, Engineering, Legal, Accounting, or a related field. Alternatively, a first university degree with additional years of relevant work experience and/or training may be acceptable. The ideal candidate should have experience handling routine transactions related to the purchase of commodities, goods, and services, as well as experience in developing timelines and cost reports for suppliers. Demonstrated experience in coordinating procurement processes with other units or teams, such as logistics, ICT, and administration, is also essential. Candidates should be able to work collaboratively and effectively in a team environment, demonstrating strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as Economics, Commerce, Business Administration, Engineering, Legal, or Accounting. In cases where candidates possess a first university degree, they should have additional years of related work experience and/or relevant training or courses that enhance their qualifications for the role. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of procurement processes and the operational needs of WFP.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a solid level of experience in procurement and supply chain management. Specifically, candidates should have experience handling routine transactions related to the purchase of commodities, goods, and services. Additionally, experience in developing timelines and cost reports for suppliers, as well as coordinating procurement processes with other units or teams, is highly desirable. This experience is essential for ensuring that procurement operations are conducted efficiently and effectively, contributing to the overall success of WFP's mission.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with a proficiency level of C (advanced). Additionally, candidates should be fluent in the local language of the duty station, which is French in this case. Proficiency in other languages may be considered an asset, but English and the local language are the primary requirements for effective communication within the organization and with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role based in Cotonou, Benin, and is part of WFP's commitment to providing an inclusive work environment. The organization emphasizes the importance of diversity and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. WFP offers a competitive compensation package, which includes various benefits and opportunities for professional development. The recruitment process is designed to be fair and transparent, with a focus on merit and individual qualifications. Candidates are reminded to submit their applications exclusively through WFP's online recruiting system, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further stages of the recruitment process.