[Hiring] Procurement Consultant @IFDC- International Fertilizer Development

Role Description

The overall objective of this consultancy is to ensure that IFDC's procurement systems meet IFAD's standards and that the project is equipped to implement procurement activities in a transparent, efficient, and accountable manner. Specific objectives may include but are not limited to:

• Rapid Systems Assessment:
  • Conduct a rapid but structured review of IFDC’s current procurement management infrastructure, including:
  • Review of existing procurement manuals, policies, and standard operating procedures;
  • Assessment of the current procurement planning process, including methods for scheduling purchases, advertising tenders, and evaluating bids;
  • Evaluate supplier/vendor management practices, including pre-qualification, performance monitoring, and contract management;
  • Review of internal controls, segregation of duties, and oversight mechanisms;
  • Assess staff capacity and training needs related to procurement;
  • Benchmark against IFAD's procurement guidelines and Procurement Handbook requirements;
  • Review of mechanisms to ensure the highest ethical standards are observed by all personnel involved in procurement and contract execution.
• Gap Analysis and Guidance:
  • Prepare a detailed gap analysis mapping current practices against IFAD minimum requirements;
  • Develop a prioritized action plan with concrete, time-bound recommendations for system improvements;
  • Provide guidance on establishing a transparent Procurement Management System that includes:
  • Clear and documented procedures for planning of purchases;
  • Tender processes that guarantee high-quality and cost-effective outcomes;
  • Mechanisms for ensuring sufficient, high-quality supply of goods and services to end consumers within required timeframes;
  • Conflict-of-interest declarations and codes of ethical conduct for procurement staff;
  • Advise any required updates to IFDC's organizational policies or governance documents.
• Procurement Plan Preparation:
  • The consultant will support IFDC and the project Procurement Manager in preparing and finalizing the project Procurement Plan, ensuring it meets IFAD standards and is ready for submission within 30 days of project contract signature. This includes:
  • Support drafting of the initial Procurement Plan covering all planned goods, works, and services for at least the first 18 months of project implementation;
  • Ensure the plan reflects the appropriate procurement methods, estimated costs, review procedures, and timelines.
• Follow-On Support (As Needed):
  • Subject to satisfactory performance and project needs, the consultant may be engaged for follow-on support including:
  • Develop or revise procurement manuals and templates aligned to IFAD standards;
  • Build capacity building workshops for IFDC procurement and project staff;
  • Review and assure quality of procurement packages prior to tender launch;
  • Review periodic compliance through project implementation.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in procurement, supply chain management, business administration, law, or a related field;
• Minimum 7 years of professional experience in procurement management, with at least 3 years on IFAD funded or comparable multilateral development bank contracts;
• Demonstrated knowledge of IFAD procurement guidelines, policies, and fiduciary requirements;
• Proven track record in developing procurement plans, manuals, and institutional capacity building;
• Experience working with government counterparts and national institutions in developing countries;
• Strong analytical and report-writing skills in English;
• Familiarity with the agricultural development sector is an advantage;
• Experience in South Sudan/East Africa preferred.

Key Deliverables

• The consultant will conduct a rapid assessment of IFDC's current procurement systems, provide targeted guidance, and support the preparation of foundational procurement documents required within 30 days of contract signature.

Location and Duration

• This is a short-term consultancy to be conducted either in Juba, South Sudan or remotely.
• The assignment is expected to span approximately four to six weeks.

Reporting and Work Relationship

• The role will report to the Project Manager and will work closely with IFDC Procurement Team and project staff.

Payment Fees and Terms

• The consultant will receive payment for his work in accordance with the terms of the contract.

Diversity Clause

IFDC is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We believe in the value of bringing together people with a broad range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. All employment decisions at IFDC are made on the basis of ability, performance, and organizational need, in alignment with our values of fairness, respect, and opportunity for all.