Head of Logistics Department

Job Posting Organization:
Solidarités International (SI) is an international humanitarian aid association that has been operational for over 40 years. The organization focuses on providing assistance to populations affected by armed conflicts and natural disasters, addressing their basic needs for food, water, and shelter. SI is particularly committed to combating diseases linked to unsafe water, which is a leading cause of death globally. The organization operates in 26 countries and employs around 3,200 individuals, including expatriates, national staff, and volunteers. SI's interventions are characterized by professionalism and a commitment to respecting cultural norms, ensuring that aid is delivered effectively and sensitively.

Job Overview:
The Head of Logistics Department is responsible for defining, overseeing, and implementing the logistics strategy for the country office of Solidarités International. This role is crucial for ensuring the availability of goods, services, and resources necessary for the organization's operations. The Head of Logistics will lead the logistics function, advise the Country Management Team on logistics issues, set technical guidelines, and oversee logistics activities to ensure compliance with SI's policies and standards. The position requires strong planning, team management, problem-solving, and coordination skills to navigate the complex operational environment and ensure uninterrupted support for mission program implementation. The role also involves managing logistics operations across various locations, ensuring consistent standards and procedures, and addressing challenges such as procurement limitations and transportation logistics.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Head of Logistics Department will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Defining and implementing the logistics strategy for the country office.
• Advising the Country Management Team on logistics-related issues.
• Setting technical guidelines and overseeing logistics activities to ensure compliance with SI policies.
• Managing logistics operations across multiple locations, including Addis Ababa, Motta, Lalibela, and Adwa.
• Ensuring consistent logistics standards and procedures across geographically dispersed bases.
• Managing procurement processes while addressing supplier capacity and market fluctuations.
• Overseeing transportation logistics between Addis Ababa and field locations, ensuring last-mile delivery to project sites.
• Improving stock visibility and management between the main office and operational bases.
• Assessing and strengthening the logistics function within the first few months of employment. 1
• Updating the Logistics Budget Planning for the upcoming fiscal year.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in logistics, supply chain management, transport, general services, or humanitarian logistics, or an equivalent qualification. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of experience in the humanitarian sector, with at least 3 to 4 years in a similar position. Technical skills required include knowledge of institutional donor rules and procedures, expertise in logistics professions, particularly in supply chain management, and strong writing, analytical, and synthesis skills. Transversal skills such as planning, organizational, and coordination abilities, along with a sense of diplomacy and adaptability to work in an intercultural environment, are also essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced degree in logistics or a related field, such as supply chain management, transport, or humanitarian logistics. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of logistics operations in a humanitarian context and for effectively managing the logistics strategy of the organization.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in the humanitarian sector, specifically more than 5 years, with a minimum of 3 to 4 years in a similar logistics role. This level of experience is necessary to navigate the challenges of logistics management in a humanitarian setting and to effectively lead the logistics function within the country office.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of local languages, such as Amharic and Tigrigna, is considered a strong asset, as it can facilitate communication and enhance the effectiveness of logistics operations in the local context.

Additional Notes:
This position is a salaried role with compensation starting from EUR 2860 gross per month, which includes a base salary and an annual leave allowance. Additionally, a monthly per diem of USD 400 is provided. SI covers accommodation costs and travel expenses between the expatriate's country of origin and the place of assignment. The organization implements a system of alternating work and time off, allowing for breaks every three months, along with a break allowance. Expatriates benefit from a comprehensive insurance package covering healthcare expenses, including medical, surgical, dental, and repatriation costs. Living conditions include shared guesthouse accommodations, with internet and telephone services available in all offices. While social life in the bases is limited, basic food items are accessible, although there are strict limitations on food importation.