Procurement Expert for Operations

Context  

MSF consists of 6 Operational Centers (OCs), 3 European Supply Centers (ESCs) and 22 partner sections (PS). OCB (Operational Center of Brussels) is one of the 6 operational centers. 

Driven by MSF’s goals, the OCB Supply chain’s purpose is to enable humanitarian action and provide reliable supply chain solutions.  

The Supply Chain Department covers the entire supply chain management at international and local levels of the operations of OCB. 

As part of this, the Procurement unit is responsible for OCB headquarters, regional and local (in-country of operations) procurement of goods and services, looking after a total of around 200million EUR of procurement budget, which represents approximately half of MSF OCB’s expenses.  

We aim to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of OCB operations, and increase compliance and risk management of OCB procurement, by increasing the level of expertise, operational support and the spent coverage, as well sharing goods practices of procurement, through a comprehensive and cross-functional approach, while ensuring the alignment between different entities/departments (OCB Supply, MSF Supply, OCB Procurement, GPU (Global Procurement Unit).  

In order to achieve this objective, we are looking for a Procurement Expert for Operations. 

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES 

Under the supervision of the Head of Procurement and in close collaboration with the Supply Front Officers representing operational needs, the Procurement Expert for Operations will provide key support to countries through the following: 

• Expertise in procurement-related areas, such as procurement strategy definition, market assessments, contract negotiations, risk management, Supplier Relationship Management (SRM), and more 

• Design and deliver customized procurement training, along with providing mentoring and coaching, to support supply managers, procurement managers, officers, and purchasers in enhancing their skills and performance 

• Representing procurement in transversal initiatives, including, but not limited to, Collaborative Demand Supply Planning (CDSP), DARA (Diversity and Anti-Racism Action), CEH (Climate, Environment, Health) and MSF E-Procurement Portal 

• Developing procurement processes, guidelines, and procedures to reinforce procurement competency and capacity across the organization. (example: construction, energy, medical equipment, fuel, spare parts, rental, insurance, and other service-related categories) 

• Leading the development of Communities of Practice (CoP) within the procurement domain to foster knowledge sharing and best practices 

• Providing support to countries that lack regional procurement coverage, ensuring consistent and efficient procurement practices 

• Briefing and debriefing international mobile staff and key stakeholders as needed, ensuring they are informed on procurement processes and challenges 

• Defining and developing relevant tools, indicators, guidelines, policies, and procedures to strengthen procurement operations

Requirements  

Education & Experiences 

• Master’s degrees in supply chain management, procurement, or equivalent areas of study are considered assets
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a procurement manager position is required
• MSF project procurement experience is required
• Purchasing / procurement specialization is an asset
• Purchasing experience in Africa or Asia is an asset
• Good knowledge of an ERP systems and analytical tools such as PowerBI is an asset  

Competencies 

• Ability to work in a multi-cultural environment
• Proven diplomatic and listening skills
• Pedagogical skills / teamwork
• Methodical, analytical & structured

Languages 

• Proficiency in English, both spoken and written is mandatory
• Good knowledge of French is an asset
• Good command of Spanish, Portuguese or Arabic is an asset 

CONDITIONS 

• Expected starting date: As soon as possible
• Location: Brussels (Belgium)
• Contract type: Open-ended contract - full time
• Mobility: at least 30% in MSF projects
• Salary according to the MSF-OCB HQ salary grid – Meal vouchers - Hospital insurance (DKV) – Pension plan – 100% reimbursement for public transport cost
• Adhere to the MSF principles and to our managerial values: Respect, Transparency, Integrity, Accountability, Trust and Empowerment
• Adhere to the MSF Behavioral Commitments 

Deadline for applications: 28 May 2025  

How to apply?  

➢ Submit your application via the 'Apply here' button on the vacancy page  
➢ You will be directed to the online application form for this position  
➢ It should take 5-10 minutes to complete. Thank you in advance for having your CV and motivation letter ready to upload  

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.  

MSF values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive working environment. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of disability, gender identity, marital or civil partnership status, race, color or ethnic and national origins, religion or belief, or sexual orientation.  

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