Supply and Logistics Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, is a United Nations agency responsible for providing humanitarian and developmental aid to children worldwide. The organization operates in over 190 countries and territories, with a mission to promote the rights of every child, everywhere, in everything it does. UNICEF focuses on equity, ensuring that the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families receive the support they need to survive, develop, and reach their full potential. The organization emphasizes the importance of addressing inequity in health, education, and protection to foster sustained growth and stability in nations. UNICEF's work aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those aimed at ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting gender equality.

Job Overview:
The Supply and Logistics Specialist position involves managing the supply chains of a medium-sized country office or elements of a larger supply operation. The role requires overseeing various supply chain operations, including planning, procurement, contracting, customs clearance, warehousing, in-country transport, and distribution. The incumbent will collaborate with program management to define supply interventions that meet programmatic needs and achieve results for children. This position also entails providing technical and advisory support to governments and partners on supply chain management, ensuring that UNICEF's programs are effectively supported through efficient supply chain operations. The specialist will be expected to integrate the UN Volunteers program mandate within their assignment, promoting voluntary action and community engagement.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The key functions of the Supply and Logistics Specialist include:

• Supply Chain Service Delivery and Emergency Response: Provide input to the Country Programme Action Planning, ensuring appropriate planning and evaluation of supply chain operations. Analyze supply plans and develop procurement strategies, ensuring timely customs clearance and effective vendor management. Develop emergency supply and logistics strategies based on risk assessments and participate in high-level emergency coordination meetings.
• Collaboration with Programme and Implementing Partners: Work closely with program sections to integrate supply components into design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and implementation. Support donor dialogue and develop supply components of proposals, ensuring accountability frameworks are established.
• Technical and Advisory Support: Promote supply chain strengthening initiatives with governments and partners, providing input to capacity development initiatives. Offer advisory support in defining supply solutions for children, including procurement services and local market development.
• Innovation, Products, and Markets: Contribute to the rollout of new products and services, promoting innovative approaches to supply chain management. Analyze supply spending and run initiatives to develop local markets where relevant.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of supply chain management principles and practices, with a focus on humanitarian and development contexts. They should demonstrate ethical awareness and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders. Strong analytical skills are essential for assessing supply chain bottlenecks and driving improvements. The role requires excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, to effectively engage with partners and stakeholders. Candidates should also exhibit a commitment to UNICEF's mission and values, particularly in promoting children's rights and addressing inequities.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in supply chain management, logistics, business administration, or a related field is required. A master's degree in a relevant discipline is preferred and may be advantageous for candidates seeking to enhance their qualifications for this role. Additional certifications in supply chain management or logistics are also beneficial.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 3-5 years of professional experience in supply chain management, logistics, or procurement, preferably within a humanitarian or development context. Experience working with international organizations or NGOs is highly desirable. Familiarity with emergency response operations and the ability to manage complex supply chains in challenging environments are critical for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the working language of UNICEF. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Zimbabwe is an asset and may enhance communication with local partners and communities. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the region can also be beneficial.

Additional Notes:
This is an International UN Volunteer assignment, and the volunteer will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials. The contract duration is subject to funding availability and satisfactory performance, with no expectation of renewal. A Volunteer Living Allowance will be provided monthly to cover housing, utilities, and living expenses. Life, health, and permanent disability insurance are included, along with a settling-in grant if applicable. In hardship duty stations, a Well-Being Differential will be provided monthly.