Senior Procurement Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Bank Group is a prominent global institution established to provide financial and technical assistance to developing countries. Its mission is to end extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity. The organization comprises five institutions and has 189 member countries, with over 120 offices worldwide. The World Bank Group focuses on investing in innovative projects and utilizing data, research, and technology to address urgent global challenges. The Eastern and Southern Africa (AFE) Region is a key area of focus, encompassing 26 countries and home to approximately 700 million people. This region faces significant development challenges, including conflicts and gaps in education and health, but also presents opportunities for collaboration with various stakeholders to foster growth and development.

Job Overview:
The Senior Procurement Specialist position is crucial for enhancing procurement systems in client countries, particularly in the Eastern and Southern Africa region. The role involves providing technical fiduciary advice on procurement activities, engaging in policy dialogue, and supporting clients in achieving value for money (VFM) in public procurement. The specialist will utilize analytical tools to define effective procurement strategies and assist Borrowers in market research and procurement planning. This position requires a proactive approach to developing practical solutions to complex procurement issues while ensuring compliance with operational directives and policies. The specialist will also be responsible for training and capacity building, leading procurement reforms, and implementing e-procurement systems, thereby contributing to improved service delivery and development outcomes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Procurement Specialist will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Providing technical fiduciary advice on procurement activities and engaging in policy dialogue to strengthen procurement systems.
• Supporting clients in achieving value for money in public procurement.
• Conducting market research and early market engagement to define optimal procurement approaches.
• Preparing Project Procurement Strategy for Development and developing procurement plans.
• Leading the preparation of OPRC case reports and conducting initial reviews.
• Participating in missions and developing practical approaches to procurement.
• Preparing and commenting on draft operational directives and policy papers.
• Producing major and complex reports.
• Developing and executing training modules on procurement topics. 1
• Providing hands-on support to Borrowers in preparing bidding documents and procurement strategies. 1
• Leading procurement reforms and implementing e-procurement systems. 1
• Conducting capacity building activities and interacting with various stakeholders, including government officials and counterparts in the Bank.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as business administration, engineering, commerce, law, or procurement. A minimum of 8 years of direct relevant experience in public procurement, particularly in Donor/MDB financed projects, is required. Candidates should have a strong understanding of international procurement concepts and practices, with the ability to translate these into operational work. Additionally, candidates must demonstrate the ability to work sensitively in a multi-cultural environment and build effective relationships with clients and colleagues. High levels of integrity, proactivity, and strong writing skills are essential, along with an excellent command of English and Portuguese. Experience in supporting country procurement reforms, particularly in e-procurement, is also necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as business administration, engineering, commerce, law, or procurement. This advanced education is essential for understanding the complexities of procurement systems and practices, as well as for effectively engaging in policy dialogue and providing technical advice.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in public procurement, particularly in the context of Donor/MDB financed projects. This experience should include a strong understanding of international procurement principles and practices, as well as practical experience in implementing procurement strategies and reforms. Experience working in at least two countries as a consultant or staff member with a development organization is also required, demonstrating the ability to navigate diverse procurement environments and challenges.

Languages:
The mandatory languages for this position are English and Portuguese, as effective communication in both languages is crucial for interacting with stakeholders and clients in the region. Proficiency in these languages will enable the specialist to engage in policy dialogue, prepare reports, and provide training effectively. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This position is a local recruitment opportunity with a term duration of 3 years. The role is based in Luanda, Angola, and involves frequent interaction with various stakeholders, including government officials and counterparts in the World Bank. The World Bank Group offers a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, medical and life insurance, paid leave, and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, or disability.