Supply and Logistics Officer, Malawi

Purpose:

Under the direct supervision of Supply/Logistics Specialist, the incumbent administers the supply operations of a relatively simple nature and limited impact, requiring basic professional technical expertise in support of operations and programme objectives. Responsible for effective planning, contracting, procurement, distribution, and inventory management of UNICEF's supplies, in support of the Country Programmes and operations.

Qualification:

University degree in Business Administration, Management, International Economics, Engineering, International Development, Contract/commercial Law or in directly related areas of specialization, including credited courses in supply, logistics, purchasing or contracting. Or, a recognized qualification in procurement and contracting. Educational qualification in relevant areas (transport or logistics operations/management, supply change management, etc.) Two years of relevant professional work experience. Both national and international work experience in supply, logistics, purchasing, contracting and administration and/or other related fields. Work experience in emergency duty station. Fluency in English and another UN language.

Key Expected Results:

1.Provide rapid and relevant assistance and support to evolving supply needs and situations facing children and families, including emergency situations, with a priority on achieving value for money.

Support the logistics and supply planning process through active coordination with Programme Sections. The incumbent shall provide input and technical support throughout the supply planning and implementation cycle, facilitating cost-effective efficient procurement, clearance, storage and distribution of supplies and equipment to implementing partners, in support of the country programme.

Assist in the Country Programme strategy planning review to recommend on supply requirements and to provide support in the preparation of Plan of Operations and Plans of Action.. Assist in the implementation of supply/logistics component of the Country Programme, including systems for storage and distribution of supplies to all project sites.

The incumbent shall also support the Emergency Specialist in emergency preparedness planning to ensure that sound logistics arrangements are in place. Contributes to the development and maintenance of emergency contingency stock lists, as well as to implementation of replenishment and pre-positioning strategies

2.Implement sound, accurate supply/logistics management systems, procedures and documentation as well as regular, accurate reporting to maintain the highest level of integrity, standards and accountability.

Ensure effective contract management of vendors/agents providing logistics and supply chain services to UNICEF Malawi. The incumbent shall oversee daily management of existing contracts for clearing and forwarding, warehousing and in-country distribution. This includes systematic assessment of vendor performance, regular benchmarking and monitoring of market conditions, and daily troubleshooting for smooth programme delivery.

Maintain effective working relations and contact with the Supply Division, Copenhagen, to confer on supply procurement and shipping policies and procedures. Advise the country office on policies and procedures impacting on offshore and local procurement and delivery. Maintain link with Copenhagen on transnational shipments, deliveries, claims and appropriateness of supplies.

Establish and maintain a system of contact with customs and port/airport authorities at national ports of entry on the clearance of UNICEF supplies, in keeping with established protocol.

Participate in the preparation/compilation of the supply status reports required for donor reports, budget reviews, programme analysis, annual reports, appeals, etc.

Oversees the receipt, storage and issue of goods under control of UNICEF Malawi. Maintains information systems that enable regular and accurate reporting of inventory positions, stock aging and incoming pipeline.

3.Support UNICEF as well as Government capacity-building in order to enhance efficient, effective and timely supply delivery,

Assists in the identification of training needs, planning of training activities and their timely implementation, with an aim to strengthen national partners' capacity in supply chain areas that are critical to ensure improved access to essential commodities in the country. Undertake field visits to project sites and monitor inventory and supply inputs. Proposes corrective actions to improve logistical procedures used by partners.

4.Support the effective delivery of Procurement Services Supports the Procurement Specialist (PSM) in the coordination of all activities required for the provision of Procurement Services to national partners. Communicates with Supply Division to facilitate smooth supply of goods, and provides guidance to partners on the purpose, framework and procedures for UNICEF Procurement Services mechanism.

5.Collaboration and Partnership Coordinate with the Programme Section on supply planning, providing technical support on procurement specifications and supply administration as well as providing advice on supply requirements in the development of the supply component of the Country Programme.

Team with the Programme Section and other members of the Operations Section to facilitate procurement as well as efficient customs clearance, storage and distribution of supplies and equipment.

Assists the Supply & Logistics Specialist in the daily management of the procurement, supply and logistics functions within Malawi Country Office. Supervises the staff in the execution of procurement and logistics procedures, so that all transactions are conducted in line with UNICEF Rules and Regulations. Ensures appropriate documentation is available, and works with relevant players to streamline work processes.

Maintain partnership and collaborative relations with UNICEF, Government, UN, and bilateral counterparts in supply and logistics activities, including distribution, and monitoring supply inputs and inventory.

Competencies:

Communicates effectively.

Sets high levels of quality and productivity for self.

Able to work effectively in a multi-cultural environment.

Demonstrates good skills and relevant knowledge in own area.

Accepts changes in circumstances when presented with them.

Ensures that team or department follows relevant company policies and procedures.

Sets clearly defined objectives and plans activities for self, own team or department.

UNICEF is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages qualified female and male candidates from all national, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities, to apply to become a part of our organisation. If you want a challenging career while improving the lives of children around the world UNICEF, the leading children's rights organization, would like to hear from you.

Visit us at www.unicef.org/about/employ to register in our new e-Recruitment system and apply to this and other vacancies, quoting E-VN-2011-001172. Applications must be received by 19 August 2011. Please note that only candidates who are under serious consideration will be contacted.

In the selection of its staff, UNICEF is committed to gender balance and diversity without distinction as to race, sex or religion, and without discrimination of persons with disabilities: well qualified candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.