Procurement Officer SC8

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 work tirelessly to ensure effective humanitarian assistance reaches millions of people globally. WFP's mission is centered around the belief that no one should go hungry, and it strives to create a world where everyone has access to the food they need to live a healthy and active life. WFP is also a 2020 Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, which underscores its commitment to addressing hunger and promoting peace through its initiatives. The organization values diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply for positions within its ranks.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Officer SC8 position at WFP in N'Djamena involves supporting the procurement programs and operational activities of the organization. The successful candidate will work under the supervision of the Head of the Procurement Unit in Chad and will closely collaborate with experienced professionals within the unit. The role requires active engagement in daily procurement operations, including launching tenders, evaluating bids, negotiating and awarding contracts, and ensuring compliance with WFP's standard procedures. The Procurement Officer will also be responsible for gathering and analyzing data related to food quality and safety, contributing to risk management, and ensuring that procurement activities align with WFP's overall food assistance programs. This position is crucial for ensuring that WFP can respond effectively to food emergencies and provide timely assistance to those in need.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Procurement Officer will have a range of responsibilities, including but not limited to: supporting procurement programs and operational activities by launching tenders, evaluating offers, negotiating and awarding contracts; gathering and analyzing data to prepare reports on food quality and safety; collaborating with colleagues from other WFP units to ensure that procurement activities are aligned with the overall food assistance program; monitoring standard emergency preparedness practices to enable rapid response to crises; acting swiftly to address food emergencies as needed; providing support for food quality assurance, ensuring compliance with specifications in tender documents and contracts; gathering data and preparing timely reports for procurement activities to facilitate informed decision-making; monitoring food suppliers regarding food quality issues, including the issuance of quality and compliance certificates; conducting performance evaluations of food suppliers and inspection companies; and supporting the program team on food technology aspects of food assistance programs, ensuring compliance with WFP's food safety and quality standards.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a master's degree in economics, logistics, business administration, engineering, food technology, or a related field. Additionally, they should have at least one year of professional experience in procurement, with a proven track record in routine food procurement transactions, quality management of food products, and coordination of procurement processes with other units such as logistics and administration. Strong analytical skills and the ability to prepare reports and manage supplier relationships are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The minimum educational requirement for this position is a master's degree in a relevant field such as economics, logistics, business administration, engineering, or food technology. This advanced degree is crucial for understanding the complexities of procurement processes and food safety standards that WFP adheres to.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of one year of professional experience in procurement, specifically in the area of food and non-food items. Experience in managing food quality and safety, as well as familiarity with procurement processes and supplier management, is highly desirable. Candidates should also demonstrate experience in coordinating procurement activities with various teams and units within an organization.

Languages:
Proficiency in French at a level C is mandatory, and candidates should also be able to communicate in English at a level B. This bilingual capability is essential for effective communication within the diverse and multicultural environment of WFP.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in N'Djamena, Chad, and is a full-time role. WFP offers an attractive compensation package, which includes various benefits and opportunities for professional development. The organization is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. All applications must be submitted through WFP's online recruiting system, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further steps in the recruitment process. WFP emphasizes its commitment to diversity and inclusion, encouraging candidates from all backgrounds to apply.