PROCUREMENT OFFICER
Position Summary
The Procurement Officer is responsible for planning, coordinating, and managing the procurement of goods, services, and works for the school. The officer ensures that procurement processes are transparent, cost-effective, timely, and compliant with the school’s procurement policies and applicable laws.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Mzuzu
- Category: Procurement
- Closing Date: 2026-08-14
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare and implement the school’s annual procurement plan.
- Source quotations and conduct competitive procurement processes.
- Coordinate tendering and supplier selection processes.
- Evaluate supplier quotations and prepare procurement recommendations.
- Issue purchase orders and monitor deliveries.
- Ensure that procured goods and services meet the required specifications and quality standards.
- Maintain an updated supplier database.
- Negotiate prices, delivery schedules, and contract terms with suppliers.
- Monitor supplier performance and recommend improvements.
- Ensure compliance with the school’s procurement policies and financial procedures.
- Work closely with the Finance Department in budget implementation.
- Coordinate with user departments to determine procurement needs.
- Maintain procurement records and documentation for audit purposes.
- Prepare periodic procurement reports for management.
- Monitor inventory levels and coordinate replenishment with the Stores Officer.
- Ensure value for money in all procurement activities.
- Perform any other duties assigned by the School Management.
Requirements
- Diploma in Procurement and Supply Chain Management, Purchasing and Supply, Logistics Management, Business Administration, or a related field from a recognized institution.
- Professional qualification from a recognized procurement body (e.g. CIPS or equivalent) will be an added advantage.
- Membership with a recognized professional procurement association is desirable.
- Minimum of 3 years’ relevant experience in procurement, purchasing, or supply chain management.
- Experience in a school, educational institution, NGO, church institution, or corporate environment will be an added advantage.
- Proven experience in tendering, contract management, inventory control, and supplier management.
- Knowledge of Procurement and supply chain management principles.
- Knowledge of Tendering and competitive bidding procedures.
- Knowledge of Contract management and supplier relationship management.
- Knowledge of Inventory and stores management.
- Knowledge of Budgeting and cost control.
- Knowledge of Procurement ethics and best practices.
- Knowledge of Relevant procurement laws and regulations.
- Knowledge of Computerized procurement and inventory management systems.
- High level of integrity and professionalism.
- Excellent negotiation and communication skills.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Good report writing and record management skills.
How to Apply
All applications should include contact numbers and addresses of at least three traceable referees and a current Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Closing date for receiving applications is 14th of August 2026. Only shortlisted candidates will be called for interviews.
Applications should be sent to:
The Education Coordinator
Diocese of Mzuzu
P.O. Box 2
MZUZU
Email: education@mzuzu.org
About the Company
Marymount Catholic Secondary School stands as one of Malawi's most respected and oldest girls' secondary institutions. Founded in 1961 by the Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of Africa, this esteemed boarding school is situated in Mzuzu, within the Northern Region of Malawi. It is renowned for its consistent academic excellence, rigorous discipline, and commitment to the holistic formation of young women. Operating under the Catholic Diocese of Mzuzu's Education Commission, the school provides an education deeply rooted in Catholic values. Its mission is to develop academically strong and morally upright young women who will drive positive change across Malawi.
Holistic Catholic education and academic excellence for girls in Malawi.
Website: https://www.marymount.mw/
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical educational and professional qualifications expected for a Procurement Officer role in Malawi?
Candidates usually need a Diploma or Degree in Procurement and Supply Chain Management or a related business field. Professional certifications like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) are highly advantageous and often preferred by employers in Malawi.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for a Procurement Officer at a secondary school in Malawi?
Daily tasks involve sourcing quotations, negotiating with suppliers for goods and services required by the school, and processing purchase orders. You would also manage supplier relationships, monitor inventory levels, and ensure compliance with procurement policies and ethical standards.
What is the typical work culture and what are key expectations for a Procurement Officer in a Malawian educational institution?
The work culture often values strong interpersonal skills, integrity, and the ability to work collaboratively within a community setting. Expectations include transparency in all dealings, adherence to budgetary constraints, and a proactive approach to cost-saving and efficiency.
What are the realistic career progression opportunities for a Procurement Officer in Malawi, especially starting in a school setting?
Starting as a Procurement Officer, one can progress to roles like Senior Procurement Officer or Procurement Manager within larger organizations or the public sector. Continuous professional development and acquiring further certifications can significantly enhance growth prospects.
What are the typical benefits offered for a Procurement Officer role in Malawi, such as leave or medical aid?
Standard benefits often include annual leave, sick leave, and potentially compassionate leave, aligned with Malawian labour laws. Some employers might offer a contribution towards medical aid schemes or a pension fund, though these can vary significantly by institution.
How should one best apply for a Procurement Officer role in Malawi, and what do employers typically look for in candidates?
Applications usually require a detailed CV and cover letter highlighting relevant experience and qualifications. Malawian employers often look for candidates with proven integrity, strong negotiation skills, meticulous record-keeping, and a good understanding of local market dynamics and suppliers.