Director, Procurement – MCA Zambia II

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Director, Procurement – MCA Zambia II
Location: Lusaka
Country: Zambia
Deadline Date: Friday, 29th November 2024

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Millennium Challenge Account (MCA) in Zambia is a collaborative initiative with the Government of the Republic of Zambia and the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) of the United States. Established to implement the $491.75 million Farm to Market Compact, MCA Zambia II focuses on enhancing agriculture and agro-processing through various projects, including the Roads and Access Project, Asset Finance Project, Agriculture Policy Reform and Institutional Strengthening Project, and the American Catalyst Facility for Development Project. The organization operates primarily in Zambia, with a mission to promote sustainable economic growth and poverty reduction through targeted investments in infrastructure and agriculture.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Director plays a crucial role in the MCA Zambia II, reporting directly to the Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Administration. This position is responsible for leading the procurement unit and ensuring that all procurement transactions adhere to MCC guidelines. The Procurement Director will manage the flow of procurement activities necessary for the successful implementation of the Compact, serving as the primary liaison between various stakeholders, including the Procurement Agent, MCA-Zambia II, MCC, and external entities. The role requires a strategic approach to procurement, ensuring that all activities are synchronized and compliant with established guidelines, while also fostering collaboration among all parties involved in the procurement process.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Procurement Director will lead the overall procurement function of MCA, managing the Procurement Agent and ensuring adequate support for operational and programmatic functions. Key responsibilities include reviewing solicitation documents and procurement plans, facilitating the preparation of procurement documents, analyzing operational needs, developing procurement plans and budgets, and building out the Procurement Unit through recruitment and onboarding. The Director will also be responsible for preventing fraud and corruption, representing MCA-Zambia II in procurement matters, developing procurement policies, monitoring planned procurements, overseeing quality delivery, advising on compliance with MCC standards, and implementing a Bid Challenge System. Additionally, the Director will consolidate records of procurement activity and report on progress, ensuring that all procurements align with MCC requirements.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Acquisition Management, Law, Contracting, Procurement, Public Administration, Social Sciences, Engineering, Business Administration, or a relevant field. An internationally recognized procurement qualification or certification is strongly desired. A minimum of eight years of executive management experience in procurement for multimillion-dollar projects is required, along with eligibility for professional membership with the Zambian Institute of Purchasing and Supply. Experience in drafting and reviewing procurement documents to international standards, as well as demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with stakeholders, is essential. Familiarity with international donor institutions’ procurement guidelines is preferred, along with experience in market outreach and managing project-based teams.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in a relevant field such as Acquisition Management, Law, Contracting, Procurement, Public Administration, Social Sciences, Engineering, or Business Administration is required. Additional qualifications such as internationally recognized procurement certifications (e.g., NIGP-CPP, CPPO, MCIPS, CPSM) are strongly desired, indicating a high level of expertise in procurement practices and principles.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of eight years of executive management experience in procurement, particularly in managing projects that involve the procurement of goods, works, and services. Relevant experience includes managing or supervising procurement professionals and operations in support of large-scale projects. Candidates should have a proven track record of delivering high-quality outcomes and managing project-based teams effectively.

Languages:
Fluent written and verbal communication skills in English are mandatory for this position. Proficiency in local languages is strongly desired, as it enhances communication with local stakeholders and contributes to effective project implementation.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and based in Lusaka, Zambia. MCA Zambia is committed to equal opportunities and encourages applications from women and minority candidates. The closing date for applications is Friday, 29th November 202

• Applications must be submitted through the online Tenderwell portal, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. The organization will assist candidates in securing membership with the Zambian Institute of Purchasing and Supply, covering associated fees if necessary.