Procurement Officer at Save The Slum Initiative

Position Overview

• The Procurement Officer will lead strategic acquisition of specialized equipment, supplies, and services totaling for this innovative agricultural biodiversity project.
• This role requires exceptional expertise in international procurement standards, vendor management, and logistics coordination while supporting groundbreaking beekeeping and soil microbiome restoration activities across rural Ogun State.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Procurement Planning: Develop and execute comprehensive procurement strategies for major equipment categories including beekeeping supplies scientific instruments, soil enhancement materials ($8,500), and monitoring equipment. Balance cost-effectiveness with quality requirements while supporting local economic development through strategic vendor selection and capacity building initiatives.
• Vendor Management: Cultivate relationships with diverse suppliers ranging from international scientific equipment manufacturers to local artisan beehive fabricators. Establish clear performance expectations, monitor vendor compliance, and maintain contingency supplier networks ensuring project continuity. Support local capacity building by working with Ogun State carpenters to fabricate 250 climate-appropriate beehives while ensuring quality standards.
• Quality Assurance: Implement comprehensive inspection procedures ensuring all procured items meet technical specifications, particularly for scientific equipment including microbial inoculant production kits, soil testing equipment, and pollinator monitoring supplies. Coordinate with technical specialists to establish acceptance criteria and conduct thorough testing of all deliveries.
• Logistics Coordination: Manage complex supply chain operations involving transportation of equipment across diverse geographical locations in rural Ogun State. Coordinate customs procedures for imported scientific equipment, manage documentation requirements, and ensure proper handling of sensitive materials including laboratory reagents and biological specimens.
• Contract Management: Develop comprehensive purchase agreements protecting organizational interests while ensuring vendor compliance with terms and conditions. Negotiate favorable payment terms, establish performance guarantees, and implement dispute resolution procedures while maintaining efficient procurement processes and legal compliance.
• Budget Control: Monitor procurement expenditures against approved allocations while identifying cost-saving opportunities through bulk purchasing, volume discounts, and transportation optimization. Work closely with Finance Officer to ensure accurate financial reporting and compliance with donor requirements while managing foreign exchange transactions.
• Documentation Management: Maintain detailed procurement records supporting audit requirements and donor reporting obligations. Implement systematic filing procedures ensuring all documentation is accessible and properly organized while coordinating with external auditors and providing comprehensive procurement documentation.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Procurement, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field with professional certifications (CIPS, CPSM) representing significant advantages.
• Minimum 5 years' experience in international procurement, preferably with NGO or development organizations, including understanding of agricultural equipment and scientific instruments.

Technical Competencies:

• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills with understanding of Nigerian commercial practices and international trade regulations.
• Knowledge of laboratory equipment procurement, beekeeping supplies, and biological materials handling.
• Experience with quality control procedures, contract development, and logistics coordination in challenging environments.

Personal Qualities:

• Excellent analytical and organizational skills with attention to detail and ability to work under pressure.
• Strong communication abilities for coordination with diverse stakeholders including international suppliers, local vendors, technical specialists, and community representatives.
• Commitment to transparency, ethical procurement practices, and value for money.