Logistics Officer - Consultant level I - CST I - Berbera

Vacancy Announcement No: JR113230

Job Title: Logistics Officer - Consultant level I

Contract Type/Grade: CST I

Duty Station: Berbera

Contract Duration: 6 months-Renewable.

Date of Issue: 9th June 2025      | Closing Date: 22nd June 2025

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE OF THE ASSIGNMENT:

Berbera is a critical strategic hub within WFP’s supply chain network in the Horn of Africa, serving as a key maritime entry point for humanitarian cargo destined for Somalia and neighboring countries, including Ethiopia. As WFP continues to optimize its supply corridors and regional response capacity, Berbera has emerged as a reliable and cost-effective alternative to traditional ports, offering proximity to drought-affected inland areas and landlocked zones.

In support to ongoing operations, WFP has recently completed the construction of a modern logistics compound in Berbera, including a new warehouse facility equipped with enhanced storage, handling, and security features. This investment is designed to improve throughput, reduce cargo dwell time, and support prepositioning.

WFP is seeking to engage a qualified Consultant to serve as Logistics Officer for the Berbera Hub, responsible for the full oversight of warehousing, transport operations, and Berbera Corridor management. The Consultant will report to the Head of Field Office and work under the technical supervision of the Country Office Supply Chain unit. As the second most senior WFP employee in the hub, the Consultant will also play a role in strengthening operational performance, partner coordination, compliance, and reporting across the corridor.

The Logistics Officer (Consultant) will be reporting to the Head of Field Office in Berbera and under the technical supervision of the Country Office Supply Chain unit, will be responsible for the operational management and strategic coordination of logistics activities across the Berbera Hub and Corridor. He/she will:

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES (not all-inclusive, within delegated authority)

•      Coordinate and manage daily logistics operations at the Berbera Hub, including port operations, warehouse management, inland transport, and corridor delivery performance.

•      Supervise and ensure the smooth functioning of the newly established WFP warehouse compound, applying corporate systems (e.g. LESS), warehouse best practices, and loss prevention measures.

•      Oversee shipping operations, including vessel discharge, port clearance, and coordination with shipping agents, port authorities, customs, and stevedores, ensuring compliance with WFP shipping standards.

•      Manage the Berbera Corridor, ensuring timely and cost-effective movement of humanitarian cargo to final delivery points in Somalia and across the border into Ethiopia.

•      Monitor and evaluate performance of service providers including transporters, warehouse operators, inspection companies, and port vendors; ensure contract compliance and resolve operational issues.

•      Collect and analyze technical and operational data to forecast logistics requirements, identify bottlenecks, and provide evidence-based recommendations for planning and optimization.

•      Lead preparation of transport plans, schedules, and contracting documentation in coordination with the Country Office, ensuring quality and timely service delivery.

•      Maintain accurate and timely logistics reports, including stock movements, transport reconciliations, cargo loss/damage reports, and performance indicators (KPIs).

•      Coordinate with government counterparts, UN agencies, NGOs, and private sector partners to strengthen operational alignment and promote shared logistics solutions.

•      Supervise, guide, and support junior staff and field personnel, ensuring task clarity, accountability, and adherence to WFP performance standards.

•      Identify and manage supply chain, operational, and contractual risks related to shipping, storage, and transport, applying mitigation measures and internal controls.

•      Support logistics innovation, emergency preparedness, process improvements, and knowledge-sharing activities at the hub level.

•      Perform any other duties as required in support of WFP’s humanitarian logistics operations.

DELIVERABLES AT THE END OF THE CONTRACT:

•      Operational Continuity: Full functionality of the Berbera Hub and corridor maintained, with uninterrupted logistics operations across port, warehouse, and inland transport.

•      Warehouse Management: The new WFP warehouse compound in Berbera is fully operational, with effective layout, inventory control systems, safety practices, and reporting mechanisms in place.

•      Corridor Performance: Timely and cost-efficient delivery of humanitarian cargo via the Berbera Corridor, with improved delivery lead times and minimized bottlenecks.

•      Vendor Oversight: Regular performance reviews conducted for logistics service providers (transporters, warehouse operators, port ser-vice vendors), with corrective actions documented and followed up.

•      Data and Reporting: Accurate, comprehensive, and timely logistics reports submitted to the Country Office, including vessel discharge summaries, stock movements, transport reconciliations, and loss/damage reports.

•      Compliance and Risk Mitigation: All logistics operations in Berbera conform with WFP procedures, food safety standards, and risk mitigation requirements, with no major compliance incidents.

•      Capacity Strengthening: Local logistics staff and contractors receive coaching and guidance; at least one structured knowledge-sharing session or on-the-job training completed.

Education: Advanced university degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Transport, Economics, or relevant fields OR First university degree with additional years of relevant professional experience and/or training may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. Certification in Port or Maritime Logistics, Certification in Humanitarian Logistics will be considered as an asset.

Experience: At least three (3) years of relevant professional work experience with advanced University Degree OR first University Degree with a minimum of five (5) or more years of relevant experience in supply chain management, logistics operations, or humanitarian logistics. Experience working with UN agencies, NGOs, or humanitarian partners is desirable.

Language: Fluency (level C) in English. Intermediate knowledge (level B) of a second UN language is a plus.

Knowledge & Skills:

•       Strong understanding of end-to-end supply chain operations, including shipping, port handling, warehousing, and last-mile delivery.

•       Proven ability to manage logistics operations independently, supervise staff, and coordinate across functions and locations.

•       Knowledge of international shipping documentation, vessel discharge processes, and port regulations.

•       Strong data analysis, operational planning, and reporting skills.

•       Experience with WFP systems (LESS, COMET, ITS, etc.) is an advantage.

•       Demonstrated capacity to work in high-pressure field environments, including remote supervision and contractor management.

•       Strong interpersonal and coordination skills to engage effectively with government entities, private sector service providers, and hu-manitarian partners.

•       Demonstrated experience in warehouse management, port operations, and inland transportation in complex or field-based environ-ments.

•       Experience in managing or supporting corridor operations, including cross-border cargo flows, customs clearance, and service provider performance monitoring.

This position is open to qualified international candidates. The candidates must be nationals of a country other than the country of assignment. Female candidates are particularly encouraged to apply. WFP offers female friendly spaces in the workplace.

Interested and qualified candidates are requested to submit online applications through Workday using the link below:

•       External Applicants: Click here!

•       Internal Applicants: Click here!

Applications that do not meet the above requirements will be disregarded. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

WFP seeks applicants of the highest integrity and professionalism who share our humanitarian principles.

WFP is an equal opportunity employer, and we are committed to promoting diversity and gender balance.

Selection of candidates is made on a competitive basis.

WFP does not charge any application fees to candidates.

@WFPSomalia