Procurement Consultant – SADEP – Office of Programs

International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC); Fjord; On-site; NOK 513,811 - 1,027,623; Full time

Job summary

International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC) is seeking a consultant for a short-term procurement consultancy based in Norway, Møre og Romsdal, Fjord. The role involves a rapid assessment of IFDC’s procurement systems, development of procurement manuals, and preparing necessary procurement documents. Candidates should have an advanced degree and at least 7 years of procurement experience, with specific knowledge of IFAD’s guidelines preferred. The consultancy will last approximately four to six weeks and can be conducted remotely or in Juba, South Sudan.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years of professional experience in procurement management.
• At least 3 years on IFAD-funded contracts or similar.
• Demonstrated knowledge of IFAD procurement guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Conduct rapid assessment of IFDC’s procurement systems.
• Prepare foundational procurement documents.
• Support drafting of initial Procurement Plan.

Skills

Procurement management

Analytical skills

Report writing

Understanding of agricultural development

Education

Advanced degree in procurement or related field

Job description

About IFDC

The International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC) is a public international organization that advances soil health and strengthens agricultural systems through science‑based innovation. For over 50 years, IFDC has translated research into practical solutions that improve nutrient use efficiency, restore degraded soils, strengthen local agricultural markets, and expand opportunities for smallholder farmers, especially women and youth.

Core Values

• Collaborate – We work across teams, countries and partners to create lasting impact.


• Innovate – We apply evidence and continuous learning to design practical and responsible solutions.


• Include – We promote equity and meaningful participation for women, youth, and under‑represented groups.


• Act with Integrity – We steward resources responsibly, uphold transparency, and remain accountable to the communities, partners, staff, and donors who place their trust in us.

Scope of Services

Rapid Systems Assessment

The overall objective 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.

• Review of existing procurement manuals, policies, and standard operating procedures.


• Assessment of current procurement planning process – scheduling purchases, advertising tenders, evaluating bids.


• Evaluation of supplier/vendor management practices – pre‑qualification, performance monitoring, and contract management.


• Review of internal controls, segregation of duties, and oversight mechanisms.


• Assessment of staff capacity and training needs related to procurement.


• Benchmark against IFAD’s procurement guidelines and Procurement Handbook requirements.


• Review 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 purchases.
  
  
  • Tender processes that guarantee high‑quality and cost‑effective outcomes.
  
  
  • Mechanisms 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 on required updates to IFDC’s organizational policies or governance documents.
  
  
  
  

Procurement Plan Preparation

• 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 appropriate procurement methods, estimated costs, review procedures, and timelines.

Follow‑On Support (As Needed)

• 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.

Requirements

• 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 is 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

Short‑term consultancy to be conducted either in Juba, South Sudan or remotely, expected to span approximately four to six weeks.

Reporting and Work Relationship

Reports to the Project Manager and works closely with IFDC Procurement Team and project staff.

Payment Fees and Terms

Payment in accordance with the terms of the contract.

Diversity Clause

IFDC is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. All employment decisions are based on ability, performance, and organizational need, in alignment with values of fairness, respect, and opportunity for all.