Operational Logistics Advisor (FO)

As an FO, you serve as the functional manager for the Logistics Coordinators in the country programs and at HQ level you work as part of a cross-matrix team. The FO represents Logistics as a part of the Operational Support Team (OST) managed by an Operational Manager. The FO responsibilities include fostering strong relationships with country programs, understanding field operations and the role of Logistics support, and organizing necessary specialist support from the Field Support Unit (FSU). The FO ensures the adaptation of policies and procedures to local contexts while providing guidance to maintain acceptable standards of logistics, safety and technical support. An FO validates HQ trip reports and ensure the alignment between field support with HQ operations. Your tasks involve developing and implementing mission-specific logistics strategies, offering expert advice, and mentoring Logistics Coordinators. Additionally, you work closely with other team members and international partners to align strategies and contribute to the development of new tools and policies. Regular and timely field visits and potential gap-fill for Logistics Coordinators are also expected.

As this role is based in Amsterdam, the ideal candidate should either already be based in The Netherlands or willing to re-locate to The Netherlands.

Main responsibilities

• You are the focal point for Logistics Coordinators in assigned country programs, as well as the single point of contact for the Operations Manager, regarding logistics. You maintain an effective relationship with the missions you are assigned to, you are aware of the challenges in the field, and you organise the support to fulfil those needs. You keep yourself informed about development in the logistics/ technical area, inside and outside MSF.
• You steer and guide the tailoring of general policies, strategies, procedures and guidelines to the local situation. You provide advice and ensure the responsiveness, agility, quality, efficiency, and availability of logistics/technical support.
• You monitor the quality of the logistic processes and results in the country programs and ensure the appropriate level is attained.
• You validate all HQ trips reports and recommendations related to the field logistics in assigned portfolio.
• You work closely together with the other OST team members, securing alignment of all actions and keeping an overview.
• You represent Operations / Country Missions in the Logistics department, and Logistics department in Operations. You assure that HQ input and involvement in field support is well organized, functioning and aligned, and that, as a consequence, HQ speaks with “one voice”.
• You are expected to spend significant time in the field and replace LogCos when required.

Specific tasks

• Vision of Logistics within assigned portfolio of countries in regard to mission Operational & Technical Logistics / Supply Chain strategy, Missions specific Logistics policy framework: validation, development, implementation and compliance in collaboration with CMT and Log dept
• Mission specific expert advice including sharing of best practices, including transversal topics e.g., vaccination, NFI’s etc.
• Validation/ support in development and implementation of mission-specific policies, logistical strategies/ tactical approaches, support structuresand service level definition, in the area of logistics, made specific to the mission
• Coaching and mentoring of LogCo’s
• Advice to Operations regarding logistics, including proposed course of action in crisis situations
• Alignment of strategy and services with counterparts in other MSF sections and international organizations.
• Contribution to the development of new tools, equipment and/ or policies
• Reports and expert advice and enable decision making on Applied security, Air Operations, Technical Logistics and Supply chain management.
• Validation of all HQ trips reports and recommendations related to the field logistics in assigned portfolio.
• Expert advice and guidance on transversal operational logistics themes and / or topics.

Candidate Profile

• Higher vocational/ BSc/ MSc in (an area related to) Logistics.
• Current or previous MSF experience of 5-7 years’ experience as Logistics Coordinator or Head of Mission in the field (>5 missions in positions like Log team Leader, Log/Admin, Deputy LogCo, All-round Log).
• In-depth knowledge of the domains within logistics (including technical logistics (biomedical, IT, construction), SC management, air operations, operational logistics, water and sanitation).
• Strong data literacy skills, including proficiency in tools like Excel and Power BI for data analysis and visualization is a strong asset.
• Excellent communication skills in English & French (written and spoken) are essential.
• You are willing to travel up to 40% of the time for annual field visits, short-term gap-fills and emergencies.

Competencies

• Results and quality orientation
• Planning and Organizing
• People Management and Development
• Initiative and Innovation

We offer

A full-time appointment (based on a 40-hours workweek) for one year with renewal option based on satisfactory performance appraisal.

A gross monthly salary in scale 16 with a current salary range between € 4,085-5,624 gross per month. The exact salary depends on relevant work experience.

Other benefits:

• 30 paid vacation days annually, contingent upon full-time employment status.
• A premium free pension where MSF covers 100% of the monthly pension contribution
• 8% holiday allowance, paid out with the salary once a year in May
• Commuting allowance (terms and conditions apply) & work from home allowance
• Hybrid working option
• L&D will support you with a variety of learning and development opportunities with internal and external trainings and courses
• Discounted daily lunch at the office
• An environment that fosters diversity, with colleagues from around the world representing various cultures and background