JOB DETAILS:

Main Functions

The Procurement Specialist will serve as a technical advisor embedded within key national institutions, working to improve procurement systems, governance, and institutional efficiency. The Specialist will guide the development of policies, manuals, and capacity-building strategies, while supporting Africa CDC’s broader vision, including pooled procurement and local manufacturing under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Specific Responsibilities

• • Lead diagnostic reviews of existing procurement frameworks, identifying systemic gaps and opportunities for reform.
  • Develop or update comprehensive procurement manuals aligned with national and AU regulations.
  • Facilitate adherence to both Member State procurement laws and international procurement standards.
  • Analyze procurement trends (e.g., vaccines, diagnostics, therapeutics), identify challenges, and conduct SWOT analyses to guide national strategies.
  • Support efforts to design or optimize pooled procurement mechanisms, aligned with Africa CDC’s strategy and AfCFTA commitments.
  • Deliver targeted capacity-building workshops for procurement and finance teams.
  • Introduce contract negotiation, supplier evaluation, and risk mitigation practices into daily operations.
  • Establish internal controls, procurement KPIs, and performance monitoring tools.
  • Engage stakeholders across government and development partners to promote transparency and accountability.

Academic Requirements and Relevant Experience

• Master’s or Doctoral degree in Procurement, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field.
• Professional certification such as CIPS, CPSM, or equivalent is highly desirable.
• Minimum of seven (7) years of relevant experience in procurement, contract management, or policy development.
• Demonstrated experience in procurement planning, evaluation, and supplier management.
• Familiarity with public procurement regulations and institutional reform processes in Africa.
• Prior experience collaborating with ministries, government agencies, and policy- makers.
• Excellent writing, reporting, and communication skills.

Required Skills

Functional Skills

• Proven ability to conduct procurement gap analysis and lead strategic planning.
• Advanced knowledge of AU and international procurement standards.
• Capacity to draft high-quality procurement manuals and regulatory frameworks.
• Strong coordination and stakeholder engagement abilities.

Personal Abilities

• • Resilience,    adaptability,    and    emotional    intelligence    in    high-pressure environments.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
  • Ability to work autonomously while collaborating with cross-functional teams.
  • Demonstrated experience in multicultural and multidisciplinary settings.

Language Requirement:

• Proficiency in at least one AU working language (English, French, Arabic, Portuguese, Spanish, Swahili).
• Knowledge of two or more additional AU working languages is an asset.