Procurement Officer NOB

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, established to save lives in emergencies and to use food assistance as a means to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of extreme weather. WFP operates globally, with a mission to ensure that no one goes hungry, and it has been recognized for its efforts, including being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 202

• WFP has a diverse workforce and is committed to creating an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued and respected. The organization has a presence in numerous countries, including a re-established office in Barbados since 2018, which supports 22 countries and territories across the Caribbean. WFP focuses on various programs, including vulnerability analysis, supply chain management, and climate risk financing, to enhance security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and resilience in the region.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Officer will play a vital role in the planning and implementation of procurement activities in line with WFP's procurement policies and standards. This position is crucial for ensuring the timely acquisition of goods and services necessary for WFP's operational and programmatic objectives. The officer will also be instrumental in emergency preparedness and response operations, ensuring that procurement processes are efficient, transparent, and compliant with regulations. The role requires proactive planning and market analysis to support WFP's ability to respond swiftly to humanitarian needs, particularly in crisis situations. The Procurement Officer will work independently and guide junior staff, contributing to the overall effectiveness of procurement services within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The key accountabilities for the Procurement Officer include: contributing to the development of procurement plans and processes; managing procurement programs and operational activities such as issuing tenders, evaluating offers, and negotiating contracts; tracking and analyzing procurement data to recommend process improvements; preparing accurate reports on procurement activities; collaborating with internal and external partners to align procurement with wider programs; training WFP staff on strategic procurement approaches; supervising junior staff and supporting them with complex analyses; ensuring emergency preparedness practices are followed; and acting in an emergency response capacity as needed. The officer may also be required to support emergency response activities and travel to affected countries as necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as Economics, Commerce, Business Administration, Engineering, Legal, or Accounting. Alternatively, a first university degree with additional relevant work experience and/or training may be acceptable. The position requires at least three years of progressively responsible professional experience in Supply Chain and Procurement, including experience with procurement activities, cost analyses, and vendor relations. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of procurement processes and compliance requirements.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in a relevant field. A first university degree may be acceptable if accompanied by additional relevant work experience or training. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of procurement and supply chain management in a humanitarian context.

Experience:
The role requires a minimum of three years of post-graduate professional experience in supply chain and procurement. Candidates should have hands-on experience with procurement activities, including purchasing and vendor research, as well as conducting cost analyses. Experience working with vendors or partners in a procurement capacity is also essential, as it contributes to the effectiveness of procurement operations within WFP.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, with a proficiency level of C. While fluency in Spanish is not required, it is considered an asset that could enhance the candidate's profile and ability to engage with diverse stakeholders in the Caribbean region.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a fixed-term contract of 12 months, subject to extension based on performance and operational needs. The role is open to nationals of Barbados and CARICOM member states. Candidates from CARICOM countries applying for positions outside their home country are responsible for their relocation and living expenses. A CARICOM Skilled National Certificate is required for successful candidates not from Barbados. The position may involve travel across the Caribbean region and requires full medical clearance. The compensation package includes competitive salary, annual leave, pension entitlement, health and life insurance, and various leave options. WFP is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.