Procurement and Logistics Assistant

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Position Title: Procurement and Logistics Assistant
Location: Lusaka
Country: Zambia
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and malnutrition. Established in 1945, FAO's mission is to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. The organization operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff members worldwide, working towards the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. FAO's country office in Zambia focuses on assisting the government in developing policies, programs, and projects aimed at achieving food security and reducing hunger and malnutrition, while promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

Job Overview:
The Procurement and Logistics Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the FAO's mission in Zambia by managing procurement and logistics operations. This position requires a proactive approach to ensure that procurement actions are completed efficiently and in compliance with FAO regulations. The incumbent will be responsible for operational functions related to procurement, including the preparation of documents, issuance of tenders, evaluation of bids, and maintaining accurate records. Additionally, the role involves analyzing logistical challenges and managing end-to-end logistical systems to optimize operations. The assistant will work closely with various stakeholders, including project managers and service providers, to ensure effective logistics support for FAO's initiatives in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Procurement and Logistics Assistant include:

• Performing operational functions related to the procurement process, including preparing documents for procurement actions, issuing tenders and purchase orders, evaluating bids, and following up with suppliers.
• Reviewing purchase requisitions, orders, contracts, and tenders to ensure technical completeness and conformity with FAO rules.
• Ensuring timely completion of procurement actions in accordance with established rules and procedures.
• Maintaining and monitoring database records related to procurement actions and ensuring accuracy of information.
• Preparing and analyzing periodic monitoring reports and making recommendations.
• Supporting knowledge sharing through training staff on procurement applications.
• Analyzing regional/country context to design and manage logistical systems for warehousing and delivery.
• Coordinating management of service providers and deliveries to promote efficient operations.
• Monitoring supply dashboards to mitigate logistical bottlenecks. 1
• Leading the development of internal procedures for logistical processes. 1
• Ensuring effective logistical management practices are in place. 1
• Preparing logistics support plans and deployment timelines. 1
• Supervising the logistics team and facilitating high-quality results through effective work planning and performance management.

Required Qualifications:
The minimum requirements for this position include:

• A Bachelor's degree in Procurement, Supply Management, or related fields.
• A minimum of 3 years of experience in procurement and logistics or related disciplines, preferably with an international NGO, Development Agency, Government of Zambia, or UN Organization.
• A working knowledge of English.
• Nationality of Zambia is required. Candidates should also demonstrate FAO core competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Procurement, Supply Management, or related disciplines. It is essential that the educational qualifications are obtained from an institution accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in procurement and logistics or related fields. This experience should ideally be gained in a multi-cultural office environment, particularly within international organizations or NGOs.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The position may involve full-time work and is subject to security clearances.