Procurement Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
CIMMYT, the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center, is a global leader in agricultural research and development. Established in 1966, CIMMYT operates in over 50 countries and employs more than 1,000 staff members. The organization is dedicated to improving the livelihoods of farmers and ensuring security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security through innovative research and sustainable agricultural practices. CIMMYT's mission is to enhance the productivity of maize and wheat systems while promoting sustainable farming practices and improving the nutritional quality of food. The organization values diversity and inclusivity, fostering a multicultural work environment that respects gender equality and teamwork.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Specialist position is crucial for managing sourcing, purchasing, and supplier management activities across various operational categories. The role involves leading supplier selection processes, conducting commercial negotiations, managing purchase orders, and ensuring timely delivery of goods and services while adhering to organizational policies. The ideal candidate will possess strong procurement expertise, analytical thinking, and excellent stakeholder management skills to support efficient and cost-effective operations. This position requires a proactive approach to identifying and developing new suppliers, as well as maintaining effective communication with internal clients and external partners to ensure a smooth procurement process.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Procurement Specialist will conduct sourcing and evaluation of qualified local and international providers for assigned procurement categories, applying market knowledge and procurement best practices. Specific duties include managing competitive bidding and tendering processes, preparing solicitation documents, conducting commercial evaluations of proposals, and recommending suppliers. The specialist will lead commercial negotiations with suppliers to secure optimal pricing and delivery conditions while ensuring compliance with institutional policies. Additionally, the role involves creating purchase orders in the Institutional ERP system, coordinating with IMPEX specialists on imported items, and supporting periodic vendor evaluations. The specialist will also maintain knowledge of assigned supplier markets and identify opportunities for service quality improvement and cost-effectiveness.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in International Trade, Business Administration, Finance, or Logistics. A minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in procurement, sourcing, purchasing, or supply chain functions is required, including experience with competitive bidding processes and supplier negotiations. Advanced proficiency in MS Office and a strong command of English (both written and conversational) are essential. Candidates will be tested on their English proficiency, with a minimum score of B2 on the CEFR required. The selected candidate should demonstrate competencies in organization, critical thinking, teamwork, client orientation, problem-solving, decision-making, negotiation, and conflict resolution. Knowledge of insurance matters will be considered an advantage.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as International Trade, Business Administration, Finance, or Logistics is required for this position. This educational background provides the necessary foundation for understanding procurement processes, supplier management, and the financial aspects of purchasing.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of progressively responsible experience in procurement, sourcing, purchasing, or supply chain functions. This experience should include a strong background in competitive bidding processes and supplier negotiations, demonstrating the candidate's ability to manage complex procurement activities effectively.

Languages:
Advanced proficiency in English is mandatory, with both written and conversational skills being essential for the role. Candidates will be required to demonstrate their English proficiency through testing. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of additional languages may be considered beneficial but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
CIMMYT offers an attractive remuneration package that includes benefits in accordance with Mexican Labor Law, such as a year-end bonus equivalent to 40 days of salary, a vacation premium of 56%, life and medical insurance, supermarket coupons, and a savings fund. The organization also provides social benefits under Mexican law (IMSS, SAR / Infonavit). Foreign national candidates must possess legal documents to work in Mexico. The position is open until filled, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. CIMMYT is committed to equal opportunity employment and fosters a multicultural work environment that values diversity and gender equality.