Head of Procurement Portfolio

Job Posting Organization:
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) was established in 1991 with the mission to foster the transition towards open market-oriented economies and promote private and entrepreneurial initiative in countries from Central Europe to Central Asia. The Bank has invested over EUR 215 billion in more than 7,600 projects across public and private sectors in its countries of operation. EBRD operates in 38 countries and employs a diverse workforce that reflects a broad range of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, enhancing its ability to serve clients effectively. The organization is committed to sustainability, equality, and digital transformation, and it prioritizes employee wellbeing and offers a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits.

Job Overview:
The Head of Procurement Portfolio is responsible for overseeing procurement-related activities and providing advisory operational support for the Bank’s public and private sector operations. This role includes ensuring compliance with the Bank’s Procurement Policies and Rules (PPR), guiding the appraisal of proposed procurement, and managing implementation arrangements during the project approval process. The Head of Procurement Portfolio serves as a guardian of the Bank’s policies and promotes best practices in international procurement and contracting. This position requires interaction with various stakeholders, including the PPD Heads of Procurement Unit and Project Implementation Advisers, and reports directly to the Director of Project Procurement. The role also involves leading a team of procurement professionals and ensuring that procurement risks are assessed and managed effectively throughout the project lifecycle.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Leadership and Team Management: Lead and manage a high-performing team of procurement professionals, ensuring capability development and accountability. Promote corporate behaviors and institutional values.
• Procurement Advisory and Portfolio Management: Manage the review of all New Transaction Notifications (NTNs), Concept Review Memorandum (CRMs), and other internal documentation related to public and private sector operations. Formulate official positions on procurement classifications and compliance with the Bank’s PPR.
• Governance, Risk, and Compliance: Identify and mitigate procurement risks, ensuring appropriate controls are in place. Provide structured feedback to operation teams regarding best practices and lessons learned.
• Procurement Reform and Change Management: Drive the design and implementation of procurement reforms and champion transformation initiatives to enhance efficiency and transparency.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build relationships with internal and external stakeholders, ensuring effective collaboration and alignment on procurement strategies.
• Performance Monitoring: Monitor procurement performance and report on risks and compliance to senior management.
• Communication and Documentation: Ensure procurement documentation is clear, well-structured, and compliant with institutional standards.

Required Qualifications:

• In-depth understanding of EBRD’s PPR or similar MDB procurement rules.
• Proven experience in developing project delivery strategies for complex infrastructure projects.
• Extensive experience in public and private sector procurement within an MDB environment.
• Strong knowledge of risk management and modern procurement best practices.
• Experience in policy development and knowledge dissemination regarding sustainable public procurement.
• Proven people and team management skills, preferably in a multicultural environment.

Educational Background:
A degree in Business, Finance, Law, Engineering, or a related field is required. Professional certification such as CIPS or equivalent is advantageous.

Experience:
Candidates should have substantial practical experience in procurement and project implementation, particularly in an MDB context. Experience in leading teams and managing procurement processes is essential, along with a track record of mitigating conflicts and demonstrating inclusive behavior.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in another working language of the Bank would be advantageous.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position with a regular contract type. The role involves leading a team of at least 5 procurement professionals and requires interaction with senior management and governance bodies. The EBRD promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages all qualified candidates to apply.