Principal Inclusive Procurement Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is an international financial institution founded in 199

• Its mission is to foster the transition towards open market-oriented economies and to promote private and entrepreneurial initiative in the countries where it invests. The EBRD operates in over 30 countries across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, employing approximately 2,000 staff members. The organization focuses on various sectors, including infrastructure, energy, and financial institutions, and aims to support sustainable development and economic growth in its regions of operation.

Job Overview:
The Principal Inclusive Procurement Expert will play a crucial role within the Gender and Economic Inclusion Team, focusing on the development and implementation of the Inclusive Procurement Policy workstream across six Western Balkans countries. This position is part of the Inclusive and Socially Responsible Program (ISRP), which is funded by the Western Balkans Infrastructure Fund (WBIF). The expert will assess inclusive procurement policies and pilot implementation in the Solid Waste Sector in North Macedonia, aiming to create training and job opportunities for underrepresented groups. The role involves engaging with public procurement authorities, conducting legal and regulatory assessments, and disseminating lessons learned to enhance inclusive procurement practices across the region. The expert will also be responsible for managing consultants, ensuring timely delivery of outputs, and fostering collaboration with various stakeholders, including the EU and other international financial institutions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Principal Inclusive Procurement Expert will lead the implementation of Inclusive and Socially Responsible Procurement (ISRP) approaches at both project and policy levels. Key responsibilities include reviewing existing evidence to support effective ISRP implementation, delivering procurement system assessments for the six Western Balkans countries, and coordinating closely with public procurement authorities to agree on recommendations. The expert will manage all workstreams related to ISRP, ensuring strong internal coordination with relevant EBRD departments. Additionally, the role involves developing standard language for procurement documents, enhancing visibility for the ISRP agenda, and contributing to knowledge products and events that promote inclusive procurement practices. The expert will also engage with a wide range of stakeholders to advance the ISRP agenda and identify new partnership opportunities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a postgraduate degree in Law (public procurement), Economics, International Development, or relevant Social Sciences from a leading university. A strong knowledge of public procurement, economic inclusion, and human capital development is essential, along with post-graduate professional experience in international organizations, governmental institutions, or consultancy. Experience in leading policy-level interventions in procurement, particularly in the Western Balkans, is highly desirable. Strong stakeholder management skills, a client-oriented approach, and excellent oral and written communication skills in English are required. Knowledge of Macedonian or other Western Balkans languages is a significant advantage.

Educational Background:
The position requires a postgraduate degree in relevant fields such as Law, Economics, International Development, or Social Sciences. Candidates should have a strong academic background from a recognized institution, demonstrating expertise in public procurement and economic inclusion.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have substantial experience in public procurement processes, particularly in the infrastructure sector. Experience in implementing inclusive procurement approaches in both public and private sectors is highly valued. The candidate should also have a proven track record of leading policy dialogue and interventions in the Western Balkans, with the ability to manage complex projects and engage with diverse stakeholders effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent oral and written communication skills. Knowledge of Macedonian and/or other Western Balkans languages is considered a strong advantage, as it will facilitate engagement with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of the role.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract for a duration of 2 years. The EBRD promotes a flexible working environment, expecting employees to work in the office 50% of the time. The organization values diversity and encourages applications from qualified candidates regardless of their background. The role involves significant interaction with various stakeholders, including public procurement authorities and international partners, and offers opportunities for professional growth within a dynamic and inclusive work culture.