Procurement Specialist

About the Role and Organization

The World Bank Group, a global development cooperative owned by 189 member countries, provides financial and advisory support to middle and low-income nations. The MENAAP region, including countries like Pakistan, confronts significant challenges such as COVID-19 recovery, economic slowdown, geopolitical tensions, and climate change. The World Bank assists with resilient and inclusive development through customized strategies across 22 countries.

The Pakistan Country Management Unit, part of MENAAP, manages a portfolio of 53 active projects worth approximately US$16.4 billion financed by IDA and IBRD. The Procurement Specialist will be part of a team responsible for procurement functions at the CMU in Islamabad and Karachi, working under the guidance of the Hub Leader and Procurement Manager.

Key Responsibilities

• Independently manage procurement services within the Country Management Unit ensuring fiduciary standards and policy adherence.
• Review procurement components in key Bank documents such as project appraisals, legal agreements, and fiduciary assessments, preparing related reports and documents.
• Work collaboratively within the regional procurement team to maintain consistent procurement approaches.
• Offer technical advice on procurement and engage in policy dialogue to strengthen local systems.
• Support clients to achieve value-for-money and improve public procurement outcomes with integrity.
• Analyze procurement markets to devise effective procurement strategies.
• Participate in missions to solve practical procurement challenges and contribute to policy and operational improvements.
• Develop training materials and conduct capacity-building workshops for Bank staff and external stakeholders.
• Assist clients in developing Project Procurement Strategy for Development (PPSD) and conducting fiduciary assessments for Programs-for-Results (PforRs).
• Ensure procurement processes utilize electronic tools such as the STEP system for tracking exchanges and monitoring key fiduciary metrics.
• Support expanded implementation efforts within Pakistan and regional countries when required.

Requirements

• Advanced degree in relevant fields such as Engineering, Law, Procurement, Finance, Business, or Commerce.
• Minimum of 5 years' experience as a Procurement Specialist or equivalent procurement-focused responsibilities.
• Strong understanding of international procurement principles including Value for Money, sustainable procurement, strategic sourcing, and contract management.
• Experience with World Bank procurement procedures is favorable.
• Robust analytical skills including risk management and ability to derive insights from diverse data sources.
• Familiarity with procurement reforms and institutional environments in client countries and understanding of the World Bank’s product cycle.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, with ability to present and defend positions to various stakeholders including government officials and Bank management.
• High integrity and dedication to delivering quality and timely work outputs.
• Proven ability to work effectively in multicultural settings and maintain positive client and colleague relationships.

Work Environment and Culture

• Committed to equal opportunity and inclusiveness across gender, identity, religion, race, and other considerations.
• Encourages empowerment, accountability, thoughtful risk-taking, and a sense of urgency among staff.
• Offers comprehensive benefits including retirement plans, medical, life and disability insurance, and paid leave including parental leave.