Head of Supply Chain

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 delivering food assistance and improving security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and nutrition for vulnerable populations. WFP's mission is to ensure that no one goes hungry, and it actively promotes diversity and inclusion within its workforce, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

Job Overview:
The Head of Supply Chain position at WFP Nepal is a pivotal role that leads the Supply Chain unit within the WFP Nepal Country Office. This position reports directly to the Deputy Country Director and is responsible for defining and implementing the supply chain strategy in alignment with WFP policies and procedures. The role is crucial in enhancing the operational effectiveness of supply chain and logistics-operations" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">logistics operations, particularly in the context of WFP Nepal’s Country Strategic Plan (2024-2028). The consultant will provide technical expertise and operational support to strengthen the government’s logistics capacity, focusing on optimizing supply chain processes for social protection programs such as the Home Grown School Feeding initiative. The consultant will also ensure that logistics operations meet operational requirements while adhering to WFP policies and international best practices, thereby contributing to the overall mission of WFP in Nepal.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Head of Supply Chain will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including:

• Defining the supply chain strategy for the WFP Nepal Country Office, ensuring effective integration of logistics and procurement operations.
• Strengthening the capacities of staff and partners in logistics and supply chain management through coaching, training, and career guidance.
• Leading coordination efforts with government ministries, humanitarian partners, and service providers for emergency preparedness and response.
• Conducting assessments of existing supply chain and logistics systems and leading the design and implementation of operational plans.
• Analyzing supply chain risks and recommending mitigation measures.
• Overseeing the operations of Humanitarian Staging Areas (HSAs) to ensure compliance with WFP logistics procedures.
• Supporting logistics preparedness activities and developing contingency plans for emergency operations.
• Liaising with various stakeholders, including government ministries and humanitarian agencies, to facilitate information sharing and coordination.
• Conducting training sessions for WFP staff and partners and developing standard operating procedures and training materials.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Transport Economics, Supply Chain, Logistics, Business Management, or a related field. Alternatively, a first university degree with additional years of relevant work experience and/or training may be acceptable. Candidates should have proven skills and knowledge in corporate country capacity strengthening approaches and tools, particularly in relation to government and private sector partnerships. Project management experience across the entire project cycle, including resource mobilization and development partner liaison, is essential. Candidates should demonstrate collaborative problem-solving skills, the ability to prioritize in high-pressure environments, and possess behavioral competencies such as action management, client orientation, and teamwork.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in a relevant field such as Transport Economics, Supply Chain, Logistics, or Business Management is required. A first university degree may be acceptable if accompanied by additional relevant work experience and training. Continuous professional development through training and courses related to supply chain management is also beneficial.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of post-graduate professional experience in capacity strengthening for supply chain and emergency preparedness and response, or related fields. Experience in leading project teams and supervising staff is highly desirable, along with proven fundraising and partnership expertise in Nepal. Candidates should also have experience in managing logistics operations and emergency response initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in English (level C) is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly local languages relevant to the operational context in Nepal.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a Regular Consultant Level II with a contract duration of 11 months, which is extendable based on performance and organizational needs. The duty station for this role is Kathmandu, Nepal. WFP is committed to providing an inclusive work environment and encourages applications from female candidates and individuals with disabilities. The organization offers an attractive compensation package and invests in the personal and professional development of its employees through various training and mentorship programs.