Job Description

Procurement Specialist

Department: Administration

Employment Type: Contract / Temp

Location: Africa

Allied Talent Partners (ATP), a Three Cairns Group initiative, is a mission-driven, not-for-profit talent marketplace focused on solving the human capital bottlenecks slowing down sustainable development efforts in emerging economies, with an initial focus on Africa. ATP connects vetted, experienced, context-relevant professionals to high-impact opportunities in energy access and sustainable development – strengthening local capacity and fuelling economic vitality. We specialize in fixed-term, deliverable-driven engagements – from interim leadership and generalist projects to niche technical expertise – handling project scoping, talent vetting and matching, contracting, payroll, and compliance so that our clients can focus on impact.

High-Level Overview

The client is seeking a Procurement Specialist to support the implementation of the ASCENT-REAF programme, a multi-country World Bank-funded initiative aimed at accelerating access to sustainable and affordable energy across Eastern and Southern Africa. The role will be critical in strengthening procurement and contract management capacity to ensure efficient, compliant, and timely delivery of project activities in line with World Bank regulations. The ideal candidate will bring deep experience in managing end-to-end procurement processes within multilateral-funded programmes, alongside strong contract oversight and governance capabilities.

Role and Responsibilities

Role: Procurement Specialist
Direct Report: Associate Group Executive, POD/CSA Departments (or designate)
Candidates Required: 1

Key Deliverables:

Procurement Planning & Advisory

• Develop and update Procurement Plans, ensuring alignment with World Bank regulations and project priorities
• Monitor implementation of approved procurement plans and flag delays or risks
• Provide advisory support on procurement policies, procedures, and sourcing strategies
• Support capacity building and training of internal staff involved in procurement processes

Procurement Process Execution

• Prepare and issue compliant bidding documents in line with Standard Procurement Documents and World Bank guidelines
• Manage tender processes including publication, bid receipt, and coordination of bid openings
• Support evaluation of bids, quotations, and proposals in accordance with defined criteria
• Manage clarifications, amendments, and extensions during procurement processes
• Prepare contract award documentation, including notifications and contract agreements

Procurement Governance & Compliance

• Ensure all procurement activities adhere to World Bank regulations and internal controls
• Manage STEP system updates and ensure timely submission of procurement documentation for review and approval
• Handle bidder communications, including complaints and debriefing processes
• Identify and escalate risks, including unethical procurement practices
• Ensure transparency and consistency across all procurement activities

Monitoring, Reporting & Documentation

• Prepare and consolidate monthly, quarterly, and annual procurement performance reports
• Maintain a centralized procurement filing system ensuring completeness and audit readiness
• Ensure all procurement documentation is properly archived and easily retrievable
• Support internal and external audits, including World Bank post-procurement reviews

Contract Management & Administration

• Maintain and update the contract registry in line with approved formats
• Monitor contract implementation to ensure delivery against agreed terms and timelines
• Review and validate payment requests against contractual milestones
• Support resolution of contractual disputes and facilitate negotiations where required
• Ensure proper contract closure and documentation upon completion

Requirements

Experience Required:

• Demonstrated experience managing procurement for World Bank or similar multilateral-funded projects
• Proven track record in handling procurement across goods, works, and consulting services
• Experience supporting large-scale, multi-country or regional development programmes
• Background in procurement planning, implementation, and contract management oversight
• Experience in training or building capacity of internal teams on procurement processes

Technical Requirements:

• Strong knowledge of World Bank Procurement Regulations and Standard Procurement Documents
• Ability to manage full procurement lifecycle including compliance, evaluation, and contract award processes
• Experience with procurement systems such as STEP or similar digital platforms
• Strong contract management capability, including performance monitoring, dispute resolution, and payment validation
• Ability to ensure governance, transparency, and audit-compliant procurement processes

Other Skills:

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to compliance and ethical standards
• Ability to operate effectively across multiple stakeholders and functions
• Strong communication skills, particularly in managing bidder queries and procurement clarifications
• High level of integrity and sound professional judgment
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a structured and timely manner

Working Arrangement
Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (primary), with potential placement across TDB offices including Nairobi, Kinshasa, Port Louis, Bujumbura, Harare, or hybrid/remote by agreement

Language: English

Travel: Periodic travel to regional offices and project locations as required for procurement support and project implementation

Terms of agreement:
Start Date: ASAP
Contracting Period: Through 28 February 2028