Supply Chain Analyst – UNDP Zimbabwe (Harare) – Comprehensive Job Overview & Career Guide
Understanding the Supply Chain Analyst Role at UNDP (Harare, Zimbabwe)
This position is a Supply Chain Analyst role within UNDP Zimbabwe, specifically supporting the Global Fund (GF) HIV, TB, and Malaria programs. The role involves overseeing and optimizing the procurement, storage, and distribution of essential health products across Zimbabwe. Below is a breakdown of the key aspects of the job:
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1. Job Context
About UNDP & the Global Fund Program
- The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) works globally to support sustainable development and strengthen health systems.
- In Zimbabwe, UNDP is the Principal Recipient (PR) for the Global Fund’s HIV grant and provides fund administration support for TB and Malaria programs run by the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC).
- A major responsibility of UNDP is ensuring that health products are procured, stored, and distributed efficiently to healthcare facilities nationwide.
Why is This Role Important?
- Managing the supply chain effectively prevents shortages and wastage of critical medicines and health products.
- Ensuring quality control and compliance with WHO guidelines helps maintain high standards in healthcare.
- Strengthening national supply chain systems, particularly at NatPharm (the national pharmaceutical warehouse), enhances service delivery.
2. Key Responsibilitieswordpress-6.7.1
(A) Ensuring Proper Storage & Distribution of Health Products
- Make sure HIV, TB, and Malaria medicines and health products are stored and distributed according to WHO guidelines and Global Fund policies.
- Monitor temperature and humidity in warehouses to prevent medicine damage.
- Ensure that pharmaceutical waste is disposed of safely using incinerators.
(B) Monitoring & Compliance
- Work closely with NatPharm to ensure they comply with their contract terms and national regulations.
- Help track Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and make sure reports are submitted correctly and on time.
- Assist in verifying inventory and financial records to ensure transparency.
(C) Coordinating with Logistics Partners
- Work with outsourced logistics agents like the World Food Programme (WFP) to ensure proper delivery of supplies.
- Follow up on audit recommendations to improve supply chain efficiency.
- Ensure proof of delivery (PODs) documents are properly archived and accessible.
(D) Reporting & Inventory Management
- Regularly update UNDP and MoHCC on stock levels, deliveries, and warehouse operations.
- Track stock values and prepare reports on inventory movements (e.g., receiving, storage, and distribution).
- Address audit findings and implement corrective actions.
(E) Supporting Supply Chain Improvement Initiatives
- Implement the Master Inventory Management Action Plan to enhance warehouse efficiency.
- Assist in responding to external audits and investigations (e.g., by Global Fund, UNDP, and government agencies).
- Participate in training, workshops, and committees to strengthen national supply chain systems.
3. Required Qualifications & Skills
Education
- Master’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, Pharmacy, or related fields with 2 years of experience; OR
- Bachelor’s degree in the same fields with 4 years of experience.
Work Experience
- Experience in pharmaceutical inventory management in a warehouse setting.
- Familiarity with Navision ERP software or similar inventory management systems.
- Project management experience in strengthening supply chain systems is an advantage.
- Previous experience in a UN or NGO environment is a plus.
Skills & Competencies
- Procurement & Supply Chain Management – Knowledge of warehouse operations, stock tracking, and logistics.
- Data Management – Ability to analyze stock reports, verify invoices, and track deliveries.
- Regulatory Compliance – Understanding of WHO guidelines, Global Fund policies, and national health regulations.
- Digital & ERP Systems – Experience using Navision, Excel, or related inventory management software.
- Reporting & Communication – Ability to document findings, present reports, and engage with stakeholders.
Languages
- Fluency in English is required.
- Proficiency in Shona and/or Ndebele is an advantage.
Certifications
- CIPS Level 3 (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) is highly desirable.
- If not held at recruitment, the certification must be obtained within one year of employment.
4. Additional Considerations
- Contract Type: National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA-9), meaning it’s open only to Zimbabwean nationals.
- Duration: 1-year contract with possible renewal.
- Mobility: No relocation required; the position is based in Harare, Zimbabwe.
- Equal Opportunity Employer: UNDP encourages applications from diverse backgrounds and does not tolerate harassment or discrimination.
- Multiple Candidates May Be Selected: UNDP may use this job listing to hire for similar roles in the future.
- Scam Alert: UNDP never charges fees for job applications.
5. Why Apply for This Role?
If you have experience in supply chain management, pharmaceutical warehousing, and logistics—particularly in the health sector—this is a great opportunity to:
✅ Work with an international organization impacting public health in Zimbabwe.
✅ Contribute to improving the efficiency of medical supply chains.
✅ Gain experience in UNDP and Global Fund project management.
✅ Enhance your career in procurement, logistics, and supply chain management.
Would you like assistance in applying for this job? I can help with writing a cover letter, refining your CV, or preparing for an interview. Let me know how I can support you! 🚀
Sure! Below is a detailed, in-depth breakdown of the Supply Chain Analyst position at UNDP Zimbabwe, covering every aspect of the job, including role responsibilities, required skills, the impact of the job, and career benefits.
Supply Chain Analyst – UNDP (Harare, Zimbabwe) – Comprehensive Guide
1. Introduction to the Role
The Supply Chain Analyst position at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Zimbabwe plays a vital role in strengthening the country’s health supply chain system, specifically for HIV, TB, and Malaria health products. This position requires expertise in pharmaceutical logistics, inventory management, and regulatory compliance to ensure that life-saving medicines and medical supplies reach patients efficiently.
The Global Fund (GF) program, in partnership with UNDP and the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC), aims to eliminate stockouts, enhance distribution efficiency, and maintain high standards of pharmaceutical storage and supply chain integrity. As the Principal Recipient (PR) of the HIV grant, UNDP Zimbabwe is responsible for overseeing the end-to-end supply chain, including procurement, storage, and last-mile distribution of essential health products.
2. Background on UNDP and the Global Fund (GF) Partnership
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global development organization working in 170+ countries to tackle global and national development challenges. UNDP plays a significant role in health system strengthening by managing Global Fund grants in multiple countries, ensuring that health commodities are delivered on time, in the right quantity, and at the right quality standards.
Why is This Job Important?
- Critical Role in Public Health: Efficient supply chain management ensures that patients receive life-saving medicines without delays.
- Improving Zimbabwe’s Healthcare System: By strengthening warehouse operations, stock management, and logistics coordination, this role helps build a resilient national health system.
- Supporting National and Global Health Goals: Aligning with Zimbabwe’s National HIV Strategic Plan (2021–2025) and WHO health guidelines, ensuring compliance with international health regulations.
3. Detailed Job Responsibilities
The Supply Chain Analyst has a diverse range of responsibilities, primarily focused on:
- Ensuring Efficient Storage & Distribution of Health Commodities
- Monitoring and Strengthening Supply Chain Compliance
- Coordinating with Logistics and Audit Partners
- Providing Regular Reporting and Inventory Management Updates
- Implementing the Master Inventory Management Action Plan
A. Ensuring Efficient Storage & Distribution of Health Commodities
The analyst is responsible for overseeing warehousing, inventory tracking, and distribution logistics for HIV, TB, and Malaria medicines.
- Ensures that all health commodities are stored according to WHO guidelines and Global Fund quality assurance standards.
- Monitors temperature and humidity levels in pharmaceutical storage facilities to prevent product degradation.
- Supports NatPharm (Zimbabwe’s national pharmaceutical warehouse) in adhering to Good Storage and Distribution Practices (GSDP).
- Tracks and reports quarantine stock and ensures proper handling of pharmaceutical waste disposal.
B. Monitoring and Strengthening Supply Chain Compliance
The analyst plays a key role in ensuring compliance with:
- Global Fund policies
- UNDP procurement guidelines
- Zimbabwe’s national regulations on pharmaceutical supply chains
Key tasks include:
- Monitoring NatPharm’s performance against agreed Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
- Ensuring timely submission of supporting documentation for supply chain operations.
- Conducting regular warehouse inspections and compliance audits to verify that stock records are accurate.
- Investigating any discrepancies between reported stock levels and actual inventory.
C. Coordinating with Logistics and Audit Partners
UNDP Zimbabwe collaborates with outsourced logistics partners, such as the World Food Programme (WFP), independent audit firms, and MoHCC teams. The analyst is responsible for:
- Coordinating with WFP to track and verify deliveries through Proof of Delivery (POD) documents.
- Assisting in stock reconciliation processes to identify and resolve discrepancies.
- Ensuring compliance with recommendations from external audits conducted by the Global Fund, UNDP, and the Office of Audit & Investigation (OAI).
- Implementing corrective actions based on audit findings and monitoring progress on action plans.
D. Providing Regular Reporting and Inventory Management Updates
Accurate reporting is critical to maintaining efficient supply chain operations. The analyst must:
- Generate monthly and quarterly reports on stock movements, distribution patterns, and warehouse conditions.
- Track stock values and ensure that inventory reports align with financial statements.
- Work closely with NatPharm, UNDP, and MoHCC to provide timely and accurate data on supply chain performance.
- Maintain an up-to-date electronic database for warehouse transactions, audit reports, and supplier invoices.
E. Implementing the Master Inventory Management Action Plan
UNDP has a long-term strategy to improve warehouse efficiency, pharmaceutical logistics, and overall supply chain performance. The analyst will:
- Assist in rolling out new warehouse management technologies to enhance tracking and visibility of stock.
- Support training programs for NatPharm staff on best practices in pharmaceutical storage and inventory control.
- Participate in steering committees, workshops, and stakeholder engagement meetings to promote supply chain improvements.
4. Key Qualifications & Experience
A. Educational Requirements
- Master’s Degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, Pharmacy, or a related field with at least 2 years of experience, OR
- Bachelor’s Degree in the same fields with 4 years of experience.
B. Work Experience
- Strong background in pharmaceutical inventory management and supply chain logistics.
- Experience with ERP systems like Navision for warehouse and inventory tracking.
- Prior experience in the UN/NGO sector is a plus but not mandatory.
C. Essential Skills
- Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills – Ability to assess risks, track inventory discrepancies, and implement corrective actions.
- Procurement & Logistics Management – Experience in warehouse operations, stock tracking, and last-mile distribution.
- Regulatory Compliance – Understanding of WHO, Global Fund, and Zimbabwean health regulations.
- Strong Communication & Reporting Abilities – Ability to prepare reports and engage with multiple stakeholders.
D. Language Requirements
- Fluency in English is mandatory.
- Proficiency in Shona and/or Ndebele is highly desirable.
E. Professional Certifications
- CIPS Level 3 (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) certification is highly desirable.
- If not already obtained, the certification must be completed within one year of employment.
5. Career Benefits and Growth Opportunities
A. Professional Development
- Gain expertise in global supply chain best practices and pharmaceutical logistics.
- Work with international partners (Global Fund, UNDP, WHO, MoHCC, and NGOs).
- Access UNDP training programs on procurement, logistics, and health system strengthening.
B. Networking & Exposure
- Collaborate with global and national health experts.
- Gain experience working with UN agencies and international donors.
- Participate in conferences, workshops, and professional development programs.
C. Impact on Zimbabwe’s Healthcare System
- Directly contribute to eliminating medicine shortages.
- Improve efficiency in public health supply chain management.
- Enhance access to HIV, TB, and Malaria treatment for vulnerable populations.
Table of Contents
6. Application Process & Next Steps
- Application Deadline: April 1, 2025
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe (No mobility required)
- Apply via: UNDP Careers Website
7. Final Thoughts
This role is ideal for professionals passionate about supply chain management in the healthcare sector. If you are interested, I can help you with a tailored CV, cover letter, or interview preparation. Let me know how I can assist you! 🚀
Certainly! Below is an even more detailed explanation of the Supply Chain Analyst role at UNDP Zimbabwe, with additional insights into supply chain optimization, industry challenges, case studies, career advancement, and global trends in pharmaceutical logistics.
Supply Chain Analyst – UNDP Zimbabwe (Harare) – An In-Depth Guide
1. Introduction to the Role
The Supply Chain Analyst at UNDP Zimbabwe plays a critical role in managing the end-to-end pharmaceutical supply chain for HIV, TB, and Malaria health products. This role ensures that vital medicines and healthcare supplies reach health facilities on time and in optimal condition, preventing stockouts and ensuring continuous patient care.
This position is part of the UNDP’s collaboration with the Global Fund (GF) and the Zimbabwe Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC), designed to strengthen the country’s public health supply chain system. The ultimate goal is to enhance logistics efficiency, prevent medicine shortages, and improve overall health outcomes.
Why Is This Role Important?
- Patient Impact: Efficient supply chains save lives by ensuring timely access to essential medicines.
- Global Health Commitment: This position supports Zimbabwe’s commitment to achieving universal health coverage (UHC) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Supply Chain Innovation: The role involves leveraging technology, data analytics, and process improvements to optimize supply chain performance.
2. UNDP’s Role in Global Health & Supply Chain Management
A. The Global Fund Partnership
Since 2003, UNDP has been a Principal Recipient (PR) of Global Fund grants in over 50 countries, working to enhance supply chain systems in low- and middle-income countries. The partnership focuses on:
- Improving national procurement and distribution systems
- Enhancing supply chain transparency and compliance
- Preventing medicine stockouts through efficient inventory management
In Zimbabwe, UNDP has been leading supply chain reforms, particularly in the management of HIV, TB, and Malaria commodities, in collaboration with NatPharm, the World Food Programme (WFP), and local health authorities.
B. Challenges in Zimbabwe’s Health Supply Chain
Despite progress, Zimbabwe’s healthcare system faces several logistical and supply chain challenges, including:
- Unreliable Distribution Networks: Transporting medical supplies to remote areas is difficult due to poor road infrastructure and fuel shortages.
- Stock Discrepancies: Variations between reported stock levels and actual inventory can lead to medicine shortages or surpluses.
- Lack of Real-Time Data: Delayed reporting from regional warehouses makes it difficult to track inventory in real time.
- Limited Cold Chain Capacity: Certain HIV and malaria medicines require temperature-controlled storage, which is not always available.
The Supply Chain Analyst plays a key role in addressing these challenges by introducing efficiency-driven solutions.
3. Core Responsibilities of the Supply Chain Analyst
The job covers multiple supply chain functions, including warehousing, distribution, procurement, compliance, and data analytics.
A. Warehouse & Inventory Management
- Ensure that NatPharm warehouses store health commodities according to Good Storage and Distribution Practices (GSDP).
- Monitor temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals, ensuring that vaccines and HIV/AIDS treatments are stored at correct conditions.
- Implement stock rotation techniques (First Expiry, First Out – FEFO) to minimize waste due to expired medicines.
B. Distribution & Last-Mile Logistics
- Oversee the distribution of Global Fund-procured health commodities to over 1,600 health facilities nationwide.
- Work with outsourced logistics providers (e.g., WFP) to ensure timely and complete deliveries.
- Use data-driven forecasting models to predict demand at different locations, preventing shortages.
C. Procurement & Compliance
- Ensure that procurement aligns with Global Fund, WHO, and Zimbabwean regulatory standards.
- Verify that proof of delivery (POD) documents are properly documented and stored.
- Assist in risk management assessments to identify vulnerabilities in the supply chain.
D. Data Analytics & Performance Reporting
- Develop real-time dashboards to track inventory, warehouse performance, and stock movements.
- Conduct monthly data analysis on supply chain efficiency, highlighting risks such as pipeline delays and procurement bottlenecks.
- Present reports to MoHCC, UNDP, and Global Fund stakeholders.
4. Key Skills & Qualifications Required
A. Educational Background
- Master’s Degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Pharmacy, Business Administration, or a related field (with at least 2 years of experience).
- OR Bachelor’s Degree in the same fields (with 4 years of experience).
B. Essential Work Experience
- Prior experience in pharmaceutical logistics, procurement, or public health supply chain management.
- Experience with ERP software such as SAP, Navision, or QuickBooks for warehouse and inventory tracking.
- Familiarity with WHO and Global Fund procurement policies.
C. Critical Soft Skills
- Analytical Thinking: Ability to analyze large datasets and identify trends in supply chain performance.
- Problem-Solving: Capability to address real-world challenges like stock shortages and logistical delays.
- Communication: Ability to coordinate with multiple stakeholders (NatPharm, UNDP, MoHCC, etc.).
- Attention to Detail: Ensuring that inventory records, procurement orders, and compliance reports are 100% accurate.
D. Professional Certifications (Preferred but Not Required)
- CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) Certification
- APICS (Association for Supply Chain Management) Certification
5. Career Growth & Future Opportunities
A. Career Paths After This Role
A Supply Chain Analyst at UNDP Zimbabwe can progress into higher roles such as:
- Supply Chain Manager (leading national supply chain initiatives).
- Pharmaceutical Procurement Lead (specializing in high-value medicine procurement).
- UNDP Regional Supply Chain Specialist (overseeing supply chains in multiple African countries).
B. Skills Development & Training
- UNDP offers on-the-job training in supply chain risk management, ERP software, and procurement.
- Employees get access to global supply chain summits and professional networking events.
- Opportunities to earn supply chain certifications while working with UNDP.
6. Case Studies: Success Stories in UNDP-Led Supply Chains
A. Reducing HIV Medication Stockouts in Zimbabwe
In 2019, Zimbabwe faced a severe HIV medication shortage, affecting thousands of patients.
- UNDP, in collaboration with NatPharm, introduced a real-time stock monitoring system.
- By 2021, stockouts were reduced by 85%, ensuring uninterrupted access to ARVs (antiretroviral drugs).
B. Last-Mile Distribution in Rural Zimbabwe
Transporting medicines to remote areas posed a major challenge.
- UNDP introduced drones for emergency deliveries in hard-to-reach locations.
- The project cut delivery times from 3 days to just 5 hours, improving access to malaria treatments.
7. Final Thoughts – Is This Job Right for You?
The Supply Chain Analyst role is ideal for professionals who:
✅ Have a passion for healthcare logistics and public health supply chains.
✅ Enjoy problem-solving and data analysis to improve efficiency.
✅ Want to make a tangible impact in Zimbabwe’s health sector.
Next Steps
- Application Deadline: April 1, 2025
- Apply via: UNDP Careers Portal
8. Additional Resources
🔹 Book: Supply Chain Management for Humanitarian Organizations – Deep dive into humanitarian logistics.
🔹 Course: Global Health Supply Chain Management (Johns Hopkins University, Coursera).
🔹 Website: Global Fund Supply Chain Hub
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