About Company
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an international, independent medical humanitarian organisation that provides aid in nearly 70 countries to people whose survival is threatened by violence, neglect, or catastrophe, primarily due to armed conflict, epidemics, malnutrition, exclusion from healthcare, or natural disasters. MSF offers impartial assistance, based on need alone, regardless of race, religion, gender, or political affiliation. Operating in challenging environments, MSF relies on robust logistical and procurement systems to ensure that essential medical supplies, equipment, and services reach those who need them most, efficiently and ethically. Join our dedicated team in Kolwezi and become a vital link in our humanitarian supply chain.
Job Description
We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Procurement Assistant to join our mission in Kolwezi, Lualaba Province. In this crucial role, you will provide essential support to the procurement department, ensuring the efficient and compliant acquisition of goods and services necessary for our humanitarian operations. This position is ideal for an individual with a strong commitment to humanitarian principles, excellent organizational skills, and a solid understanding of procurement best practices within a dynamic and often challenging environment.
As a Procurement Assistant, you will be instrumental in facilitating the timely delivery of medical supplies, logistical equipment, office necessities, and various services by adhering strictly to MSF’s internal guidelines, donor requirements, and local regulations. You will engage with local and international suppliers, manage purchase orders, track deliveries, and maintain comprehensive procurement records. Your ability to work collaboratively with various departments, manage multiple tasks under pressure, and ensure transparency will directly contribute to MSF’s capacity to provide life-saving assistance to vulnerable populations in Kolwezi and surrounding areas. This is more than just a job; it’s an opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of people facing dire circumstances.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist in the preparation of procurement plans, purchase orders, and contracts.
- Source and identify reliable local and international suppliers, ensuring value for money and compliance with MSF and donor procurement procedures.
- Receive and review purchase requests, ensuring all necessary documentation and approvals are in place.
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date vendor lists, supplier performance records, and procurement databases.
- Monitor the delivery of goods and services, ensuring timely receipt and quality adherence.
- Process invoices and coordinate with the finance department to ensure prompt payment to suppliers.
- Prepare regular procurement reports, detailing expenditures, supplier performance, and challenges.
- Support the Procurement Officer in conducting market surveys and negotiating favorable terms with suppliers.
- Ensure all procurement activities comply with MSF ethical guidelines, anti-fraud policies, and local laws.
- Contribute to the continuous improvement of procurement processes and systems within the mission.
Required Skills
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in procurement, supply chain, or a related field, preferably within an NGO or humanitarian context.
- Strong understanding of procurement principles, practices, and ethics.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).
- Excellent organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
- Strong communication and negotiation skills in English and French (written and spoken).
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced, multicultural environment.
- High level of integrity, accountability, and attention to detail.
Preferred Qualifications
- A Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Experience working with ERP systems or specific procurement software.
- Knowledge of local markets and suppliers in Lualaba Province.
- Proficiency in Swahili or other local languages relevant to Kolwezi.
- Certification in procurement or supply chain management (e.g., CIPS).
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Comprehensive health insurance for you and your dependents.
- Generous annual leave and sick leave provisions.
- Opportunities for professional development and training within a global organization.
- A challenging yet rewarding work environment where your contributions directly impact humanitarian aid.
- Being part of a dedicated and passionate team committed to saving lives.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to click on the application link below to submit their CV and a cover letter outlining their suitability for this role. Please ensure your application highlights your experience in procurement and your commitment to humanitarian work. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview. The deadline for applications is [insert specific date, e.g., two weeks from posting date].