Develop and implement efficient logistics and distribution systems to support the storage and movement of medical and non-medical supplies across Member States and Africa CDC warehouses.
Design and manage warehouse infrastructure, layouts, and workflows, ensuring effective storage, inventory control, and handling processes in line with safety and operational standards.
Establish warehouse management policies, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and quality assurance standards for storage, handling, distribution, cold chain maintenance, and stock control.
Lead planning and implementation of warehouse solutions for emergency response, including site selection, facility readiness, and transport logistics.
Evaluate and integrate appropriate technologies and automation solutions to improve warehouse performance, enhance operational efficiency, and ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
Specific Responsibilities
Analyse and manage warehouse operations under various scenarios and logistical contingencies.
Evaluate information flows across end-to-end warehouse processes, from order initiation to receiving, storage, and distribution.
Coordinate the resolution of equipment, infrastructure, and system issues to minimize operational downtime.
Develop and implement workplace safety and health (WSH) strategies to enhance operational procedures.
Assess and apply cargo consolidation solutions to optimize storage space, reduce costs, and improve efficiency.
Design cargo handling schedules that account for resource availability and operational timelines.
Evaluate handling and storage procedures for dangerous goods and temperature-sensitive materials.
Develop and execute efficient storage plans based on product characteristics and client profiles.
Identify and recommend technology and automation solutions to improve warehouse processes.
Oversee the development and implementation of warehouse layout and material handling equipment (MHE) strategies.
Monitor and evaluate warehouse operations in alignment with quality management system standards.
Stay abreast of technological developments and trends relevant to warehouse management.
Manage and improve warehouse planning methods, including storage and layout optimization.
Conduct safety and health risk assessments to mitigate operational hazards.
Design and implement cargo/material handling security protocols.
Lead continuous improvement initiatives and performance enhancement strategies for warehouse operations.
Plan and manage warehouse response procedures for incidents and crises.
Any other related assignments may be assigned by supervisors.
Academic Requirements and Relevant Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy, Health Supply Chain Management, or related fields with a minimum of 5 years of progressive professional experience in warehouse management, logistics operations, or related fields, preferably within public health, humanitarian, or development contexts.
Master’s degree in Pharmacy, Health Supply Chain Management, or related fields with a minimum of 2 years of progressive professional experience in warehouse management, logistics operations, or related fields, preferably within public health, humanitarian, or development contexts.
Demonstrated experience in the design, implementation, and evaluation of warehouse operations, including cold chain logistics, stock control, and layout optimization.
Proven ability to work with warehouse management systems (WMS), inventory tracking tools, and supply chain performance monitoring software.
Experience in managing emergency logistics operations, including the storage and distribution of medical and non-medical supplies under time-sensitive conditions.
Familiarity with international quality standards in warehousing (e.g., ISO 9001, GDP, GSP) and safety regulations related to handling sensitive or dangerous goods.
Prior experience working with multilateral organizations, international NGOs, or government agencies in Africa or similar regions is highly desirable.
Exposure to cross-border supply chain coordination and working in a multi-cultural, multi-disciplinary environment will be an added advantage.
Required Skills
Proficiency in one of the AU Official working languages (Arabic, English, French, Kiswahili, Portuguese, and Spanish) and fluency in another AU language(s) is an added advantage.
Ability to initiate and identify key strategic opportunities and risks.
Excellent planning and organizational skills.
Excellent negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
Capacity to work under pressure and multi-task within tight time constraints.
Ability to work in a multicultural environment and relate well with a broad array of individuals both within and outside of the AU.
Creative and strategic thinking structured towards an efficient approach to project implementation with a proven track record of leading cross-functional project teams.
Problem-solving aptitudes with excellent analytical, solution orientation, and risk management skills.