Global Indirect Strategic Buyer

Global Indirect Strategic Buyer

Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)

June 11, 2025July 26, 2025BrusselsBelgium
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an international, independent, medical humanitarian organization that delivers emergency aid to people affected by armed conflict, epidemics, healthcare exclusion, and natural disasters. Established in 1971, MSF operates in over 70 countries and employs thousands of staff members worldwide. The organization is committed to providing assistance based solely on need, without regard to race, religion, gender, or political affiliation. MSF International serves as the legal entity that binds MSF’s 24 sections, 6 operational entities, 27 associations, and 18 branch offices together, providing political oversight, coordination, information, and support to the MSF Movement, as well as implementing international projects and initiatives as requested.

Job Overview:
The Global Indirect Strategic Buyer plays a crucial role within the Global Procurement Unit (GPU) of MSF International. This position is responsible for managing global procurement activities that align with the needs of the headquarters and the Global Indirect procurement action plan. The buyer will optimize procurement spending within their scope of work, ensuring that procurement activities are efficient, pertinent, and responsive to the global needs of MSF. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including department heads and budget holders, to ensure that procurement strategies are effectively implemented and that the organization’s social mission is supported through efficient procurement practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Build a comprehensive analysis of the scope of work and a strategy that responds to the needs of MSF entities and aligns with the strategic objectives of the Global Procurement Unit. This includes establishing communication channels and processes to capture needs from different entities and formulating strategic priorities based on analysis.
  • Perform procurement activities in line with the needs of the HQs and the Global Indirect procurement action plan. This involves gathering needs, analyzing spend, leading tenders, defining procurement strategies, guiding departments in needs analysis, launching tenders, negotiating with suppliers, and monitoring key performance indicators.
  • Ensure smooth collaboration between procurement stakeholders across different HQs by facilitating regular meetings, ensuring alignment on procurement strategies, and providing technical support to staff to develop procurement best practices.
  • Develop and maintain close links with various departments and focal points to understand multiple entities' needs and lead strategic procurement activities autonomously.
  • Operationalize procurement strategies into actionable plans in coordination with all MSF entities and platforms involved.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong analytical skills, excellent negotiation abilities, and a deep understanding of procurement processes. They should have experience in managing procurement activities in a complex organizational environment and be able to work collaboratively with diverse teams. Strong communication skills and the ability to engage with various stakeholders are essential. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a commitment to MSF's humanitarian principles and values.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in business administration, supply chain management, or a related field is required. A master's degree or additional certifications in procurement or supply chain management is preferred. Candidates should have a solid understanding of procurement regulations and best practices, as well as experience in strategic sourcing and supplier management.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of experience in procurement or supply chain management, preferably in an international or humanitarian context. Experience in managing complex procurement projects and working with diverse stakeholders is essential. Familiarity with the procurement needs of humanitarian organizations is a plus.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in French or Spanish is highly desirable. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to MSF's operational contexts is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract at 100% for a duration of 12 months, starting on the 1st of September 202
  • The successful candidate will be offered a contract in the MSF office of their country of residence at the time of application. Compensation and benefits will be in accordance with MSF's practices and the conditions current in the MSF entity establishing the contract.
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