African Parks (AP) is a not-for-profit conservation organization that secures mandates through Public-Private Partnerships with governments and communities for the rehabilitation and long-term management of protected areas across Africa. In Malawi, African Parks manages Majete Wildlife Reserve, Liwonde National Park, Mangochi Forest Reserve and Nkhotakota Wildlife Reserve.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for the position of Procurement Officer based at Majete Wildlife Reserve, Chikwawa.
African Parks is seeking a highly motivated, dynamic and academically strong individual with a passion for conservation and a desire to develop a long-term career within protected area management.
This position is being offered as a Graduate Development Opportunity and is intended to identify talented individuals with strong potential who can be trained and mentored within African Parks systems and procedures. Previous procurement experience may be advantageous but is not essential. We are primarily seeking candidates with the right attitude, aptitude, integrity and willingness to learn.
Recent graduates and early-career professionals are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Procurement Officer will report directly to the Finance Manager and work closely with all departments across the reserve. The successful candidate will support and coordinate procurement activities while developing a comprehensive understanding of procurement, logistics, inventory management, compliance and operational support within a conservation environment.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for the position of Procurement Officer based at Majete Wildlife Reserve, Chikwawa.
African Parks is seeking a highly motivated, dynamic and academically strong individual with a passion for conservation and a desire to develop a long-term career within protected area management.
This position is being offered as a Graduate Development Opportunity and is intended to identify talented individuals with strong potential who can be trained and mentored within African Parks systems and procedures. Previous procurement experience may be advantageous but is not essential. We are primarily seeking candidates with the right attitude, aptitude, integrity and willingness to learn.
Recent graduates and early-career professionals are strongly encouraged to apply.
The Procurement Officer will report directly to the Finance Manager and work closely with all departments across the reserve. The successful candidate will support and coordinate procurement activities while developing a comprehensive understanding of procurement, logistics, inventory management, compliance and operational support within a conservation environment.
Job Summary
- Type: contract
- Location: Lilongwe
- Category: Procurement
- Closing Date: 2026-07-24
Key Responsibilities
- Coordinate purchase requisitions, generate PRs, and ensure completeness in line with African Parks procurement SOPs.
- Track approved procurement requests, follow up on progress, and provide status updates to relevant departments.
- Source quotations, support bid evaluations, compile quotation analyses, and prepare procurement recommendations within approved thresholds.
- Prepare, issue and monitor Purchase Orders for approved procurements, ensuring supplier confirmations are obtained.
- Facilitate procurement approvals in line with delegated authority levels and segregation-of-duties requirements.
- Maintain accurate procurement records and assist with supplier agreements and service contracts using approved templates.
- Maintain the Approved Supplier Register and supplier records, including statutory documentation and due diligence information.
- Support supplier onboarding, evaluations and performance monitoring against quality, delivery, responsiveness and compliance standards.
- Escalate supplier performance concerns and support negotiations on pricing, delivery schedules and contract terms.
- Conduct periodic benchmarking and identify opportunities for cost savings and procurement efficiencies.
- Capture procurement transactions in MyStock and ensure inventory, consumables and asset classifications are accurate.
- Maintain complete, accurate and audit-ready procurement documentation and tracking records.
- Prepare procurement compliance reports and support internal, donor and external audit processes.
- Support Electronic Invoicing System requirements with MRA and coordinate with Stores personnel on stock movement reconciliations.
- Verify that goods received conform to approved specifications and support preparation of Goods Received Notes.
- Resolve discrepancies, shortages, quality concerns and supplier returns in coordination with Stores and user departments.
- Ensure procured assets, including donor-funded assets, are properly recorded, tagged and registered in MyStock.
- Support compliance with donor procurement requirements, approvals, reporting obligations and project documentation standards.
- Uphold African Parks’ Anti-Corruption Policy, declare and avoid conflicts of interest, and maintain confidentiality of procurement information.
- Report suspected fraud, irregularities or unethical conduct through appropriate channels and promote transparent, accountable procurement practices.
- Collaborate with departments to forecast procurement needs, participate in planning meetings and support urgent operational requirements.
- Provide guidance on procurement procedures and maintain procurement tracking tools, status updates and management reports.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized tertiary institution in Procurement and Supply Chain Management, Purchasing and Supply, Procurement Management, Supply Chain Management, Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Logistics Management, Commerce, Economics or a closely related field.
- Recent graduates and early-career professionals are encouraged to apply.
- Some practical experience in procurement, purchasing, logistics, inventory management, finance, accounting, stores administration, contract administration or a related administrative function will be an added advantage.
- Demonstrated exposure to procurement processes, supplier management, quotation analysis, inventory control systems or procurement compliance will be an added advantage.
- Professional qualification or progress towards a procurement-related professional certification such as CIPS will be an added advantage.
- Excellent written and spoken English.
- Strong analytical, numerical and problem-solving abilities.
- Good computer literacy, including Microsoft Office applications, particularly Microsoft Excel.
- Ability to learn and effectively use procurement, inventory and ERP systems.
- Demonstrated integrity, professionalism and willingness to learn.
- Valid driver’s licence will be an added advantage.
How to Apply
Applicants should submit their CV together with a covering letter clearly demonstrating how their qualifications, skills, and personal attributes meet the requirements of the position. At least three traceable referees should be included; however, copies of certificates are not required at this stage. no later than 16:00 hours on 24th July 2026. Only shortlisted candidates will be acknowledged.
Should you not hear from us within two weeks after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
APPLY NOW
africanparks.simplify.hr
Should you not hear from us within two weeks after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
APPLY NOW
africanparks.simplify.hr
About the Company
African Parks is a non-governmental organization (NGO) focused on biodiversity conservation through protected area management, established in 2000 and headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa. It was founded as the African Parks Management and Finance Company, a private company, then underwent structural changes to become an NGO called African Parks Foundation, and later renamed African Parks Network. The organization manages national parks and protected areas throughout Africa, in collaboration with governments and surrounding communities. African Parks manages 24 protected areas in 13 countries as of October 2025, and employs more than 5000 staff.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical educational qualifications needed for a Graduate Procurement Officer role in Malawi?
A bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field is generally required. For graduate development opportunities, employers prioritize a strong academic record, enthusiasm, and a keen willingness to learn over extensive prior work experience.
What would be the common day-to-day responsibilities for a Procurement Officer at a graduate level in Malawi?
You would typically assist in sourcing goods and services, preparing purchase orders, and managing supplier relationships. This involves conducting market research, negotiating prices, and ensuring compliance with established procurement policies and procedures.
What is the typical work culture like for a Procurement Officer in Malawi, especially within conservation organizations?
The work culture in Malawi often emphasizes respect for hierarchy, collaboration, and strong interpersonal relationships. You can expect a supportive environment that values resourcefulness and adaptability, especially when navigating logistical challenges in remote or diverse settings.
What are the realistic career progression paths for a Graduate Procurement Officer in Malawi?
Starting as a Graduate Officer, you can typically advance to a Procurement Officer, Senior Procurement Officer, and eventually a Procurement Manager role with experience. Pursuing professional certifications like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) is highly valued and can significantly accelerate your career growth in Malawi.
What kind of benefits can a Graduate Procurement Officer expect from employers in Malawi?
Beyond a competitive salary, typical benefits include annual leave, sick leave, and contributions to a pension scheme, as per Malawian labor laws. Some organizations may also offer medical aid coverage, life insurance, or specific allowances depending on company policy and the nature of the role.
What do Malawian employers typically look for when hiring for graduate procurement roles, and what's the best way to apply?
Employers seek candidates with strong analytical skills, meticulous attention to detail, and a proactive, problem-solving mindset. Highlighting your understanding of procurement principles and demonstrating genuine enthusiasm for the organization's mission, such as conservation, will strengthen your application.