Job Details

Job Description

About Focus Africa: Focus Africa is a dynamic development organization dedicated to driving positive change in Africa’s key industries, including Agriculture, Agribusiness, Policy, and Strategic Management. We are committed to empowering businesses and governments to navigate complex challenges and unlock growth opportunities across the continent.

About the Project: In recent years, rural communities in Zambia have faced increasing vulnerability due to the rising frequency and intensity of climate hazards, such as droughts and floods. With over 95% of farmers relying on rainfed agriculture, the impacts of these climate challenges are particularly severe. The situation is compounded for women and people with disabilities who face heightened vulnerability. Recognizing the urgent need to address these challenges, Focus Africa proposes a comprehensive project aimed at improving the adaptive capacity of rural communities in Zambia, with a focus on Monze and Kalomo Districts.

Objective: The main objective of this project is to enhance the adaptive capacity of rural communities in dealing with climate impacts, not only by strengthening mitigation efforts but also by promoting sustainable practices that contribute to the restoration of degraded areas.

Specific Objectives:

1. To support communities in implementing targeted mitigation activities aimed at minimizing the impact of climate change.
2. To improve the adaptive capacity of communities in rural Zambia.
3. To improve the institutional capacity of government and traditional structures in climate mitigation and adaptation.

Description of Role: The Procurement Officer will be based at the Lusaka office and will be responsible for managing the procurement process for project-related goods and services. They will ensure compliance with organizational procurement policies and procedures and support the efficient and effective implementation of project activities.

Key responsibilities include:

1. Procurement Planning: Develop and implement procurement plans in coordination with project managers and other stakeholders, ensuring timely and cost-effective acquisition of goods and services.
2. Supplier Management: Identify, assess, and select suppliers/vendors based on criteria such as price, quality, and delivery time, and maintain positive relationships with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of goods and services.
Bid Management: Prepare and issue requests for quotations (RFQs), requests for proposals (RFPs), and invitations to bid (ITBs), evaluate bids and proposals, and recommend contract awards based on established criteria.
3. Contract Management: Draft and negotiate contracts and purchase orders with selected suppliers/vendors, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements and organizational standards.
4. Documentation and Reporting: Maintain accurate procurement records and documentation, including contracts, purchase orders, and procurement files, and prepare procurement reports as required.
5. Compliance: Ensure compliance with organizational procurement policies and procedures, as well as relevant laws and regulations, and conduct regular procurement audits to identify areas for improvement.
6. Capacity Building: Provide guidance and support to project staff on procurement-related matters, including procurement planning, contract management, and compliance with procurement policies and procedures.

Qualifications:

1. Bachelor’s degree in Procurement, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
2. Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in procurement, preferably in the development sector.
3. Professional certification in procurement or supply chain management (e.g., CIPS, CPIM) is an added advantage.
4. Knowledge of procurement regulations and best practices.
5. Strong negotiation and contract management skills.

6. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Application Requirements: Suitably qualified applicants are invited to submit their applications, including a cover letter and resume, to [email protected] by 27 February 2024.

Duration: This is a 1-year contract position with the possibility of extension based on performance and business needs.