Logistics Assistant - Commodity Accounting

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 are committed to the mission of alleviating hunger and improving nutrition. WFP is recognized for its efforts and was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020 for its work in combating hunger and promoting peace.

Job Overview:
The Logistics Assistant - Commodity Accounting position at WFP is crucial for supporting the implementation of commodity accounting and funds management activities. The role involves maintaining accurate inventory records, monitoring commodity movements, validating transactions in corporate systems, and assisting in operational budget and fund tracking. The successful candidate will work closely with warehouse and field office staff to ensure compliance with WFP standards and will be responsible for preparing reports for management and donors. This position is based in the Sierra Leone Country Office and reports directly to the Senior Logistics Officer, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and collaboration in achieving WFP's mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The key accountabilities for this role include maintaining accurate commodity accounting records in WFP's corporate systems, monitoring inventory balances, conducting regular reconciliations of physical stocks against system records, and supporting warehouse staff in commodity accounting matters. The Logistics Assistant will also review warehouse reports for inconsistencies, monitor stock movements, support physical inventory exercises, and ensure timely completion of waybill confirmations and transport transaction closures. Additionally, the role involves assisting in monitoring logistics operational budgets, tracking fund utilization, preparing funding forecasts, reviewing invoices for compliance, and maintaining documentation for audits and donor reporting.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a secondary school education, with a post-secondary certificate in a related functional area being desirable. The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience in logistics, warehouse management, commodity accounting, finance, accounting, supply chain, or related operational support roles. Knowledge of corporate information systems such as LESS, SAP, COMET, or equivalent ERP systems is essential, along with experience in inventory management and reconciliation processes. Candidates should also have experience in preparing analytical and management reports and supporting budgeting and funds management activities.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position includes the completion of secondary school education. A post-secondary certificate in a relevant field is considered an asset, as it demonstrates a deeper understanding of the functional area related to logistics and commodity accounting.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 5 years of relevant experience in logistics, warehouse management, commodity accounting, finance, accounting, supply chain, or related operational support roles. This experience is crucial for understanding the complexities of commodity accounting and funds management within the context of humanitarian operations.

Languages:
Fluency in English (level C) is mandatory for this position. This role is specifically open to Sierra Leonean nationals, and while English is the primary language required, knowledge of additional languages may be beneficial but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role based in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The WFP emphasizes diversity and encourages qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply, particularly women. The organization is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. The application process requires candidates to submit their applications exclusively through the online recruiting system, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further stages of the recruitment process. WFP offers an attractive compensation package and invests in the personal and professional development of its employees.