Job Title: Logistics & Supply Cell Advisor
Organisation: Doctors Without Borders (Médecins Sans Frontières – MSF Ubuntu)
Job Location: Harare, Zimbabwe / Nairobi, Kenya / Johannesburg, South Africa (Initial duty station to be confirmed)
Closing Date: 14 August 2026
The successful candidate will provide strategic, technical, and operational logistics and supply chain support to humanitarian programmes, ensuring efficient, safe, and accountable delivery of medical assistance in diverse operational settings.
Start Date: As Soon As Possible
Contract: 3-Year Renewable Full-Time Contract (Maximum 6 Years)
Travel: 20%-50% Annually
Salary: In line with MSF reward policy and local conditions
Eligibility: Open to Local and International Applicants
The role is ideal for an experienced humanitarian logistics professional who thrives in complex environments and is passionate about improving healthcare delivery through effective logistics and supply chain systems.
About MSF Ubuntu
MSF Ubuntu is the newest Operational Directorate of Doctors Without Borders, inspired by the philosophy of Ubuntu – “I am because we are.” It focuses on community-centred humanitarian action while promoting collaboration, sustainability, interoperability, and operational excellence across the MSF movement.
Job Summary
- Type: contract
- Location: Harare
- Category: Logistics
- Closing Date: 2026-08-14
Key Responsibilities
- Provide technical logistics and supply support to field missions.
- Assist emergency response, mission start-ups, operational transitions, and surge activities.
- Identify logistics bottlenecks and implement practical solutions.
- Support logistics planning, budgeting, emergency preparedness, fleet management, procurement, WASH, facilities, and supply systems.
- Coordinate technical support across operational teams.
- Strengthen logistics and supply systems across programmes.
- Improve procurement, stock management, maintenance, reporting, compliance, and accountability.
- Support audits, risk management, quality assurance, and implementation of MSF logistics standards.
- Promote continuous improvement and operational efficiency.
- Mentor and coach logistics and supply staff.
- Support onboarding, training, learning, and professional development.
- Strengthen national staff capacity and promote knowledge sharing.
- Foster an inclusive, accountable, and collaborative working environment.
- Represent MSF Ubuntu at country level when delegated.
- Coordinate with operational partners, government stakeholders, and other MSF entities.
- Support institutional collaboration and operational alignment.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, Engineering, Operations Management, Humanitarian Affairs, or a related field.
- Fluency in English (French is a significant advantage).
- Strong knowledge of humanitarian logistics and supply chain management.
- Minimum of seven years’ progressive humanitarian logistics or supply chain experience.
- Experience working in complex or insecure environments.
- Experience providing logistics coordination, operational support, emergency response, coaching, and systems implementation.
- Previous MSF experience is strongly preferred.
Salary
In line with MSF reward policy and local conditions
How to Apply
About the Company
Doctors Without Borders (MSF) is an independent medical humanitarian organisation with an active presence in Zimbabwe. The organisation focuses on addressing critical gaps within the nation's healthcare system. In 2024, MSF continued its efforts in Zimbabwe to counter the effects of chronic underfunding, which has contributed to significant shortages. This ongoing commitment ensures vital medical humanitarian aid reaches communities impacted by these systemic issues.
Providing vital medical humanitarian aid and addressing healthcare gaps in Zimbabwe.
Website: https://www.msf.org.za/our-work/where-we-work/zimbabwe
Frequently Asked Questions
What educational background and professional certifications are typically required for a Logistics & Supply Cell Advisor role in Zimbabwe, especially within an NGO context like MSF?
Candidates usually require a degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Procurement, or a related field to be considered for this advisory position. Professional certifications like CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) are highly valued and often a strong advantage for such specialized roles. Significant practical experience in logistics and supply chain operations, particularly within humanitarian or public health sectors in challenging environments, is also crucial.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities and challenges for a Logistics & Supply Cell Advisor working in Zimbabwe?
Daily tasks often involve overseeing complex supply chain operations, ensuring procurement compliance, managing inventory, and coordinating transport for essential medical and non-medical supplies across various project sites. A significant part of the role also includes advising on logistical strategies, providing technical support to local teams, and addressing unique supply chain challenges prevalent in the Zimbabwean context. You would also be expected to contribute to reporting and ensure adherence to both organizational and national regulations.
What can I expect regarding the local work culture and professional expectations for an international NGO like MSF operating in Zimbabwe?
The work culture in international NGOs in Zimbabwe typically emphasizes professionalism, adaptability, and strong collaboration with local teams, partners, and communities. You would be expected to demonstrate cultural sensitivity, resilience in dynamic and resource-constrained environments, and a proactive approach to problem-solving while respecting local customs and practices. Strong communication skills, a commitment to humanitarian principles, and ethical conduct are highly valued.
What are the realistic career progression opportunities for a Logistics & Supply Cell Advisor within an organization like MSF in Zimbabwe or internationally?
Successful Logistics & Supply Cell Advisors can often progress into senior management roles such as Logistics Coordinator, Supply Chain Manager, or even country-level operational positions within MSF or other international NGOs. Opportunities also exist for specialization in areas like medical logistics, emergency preparedness, or field coordination, potentially leading to international assignments. Continuous professional development, demonstrated leadership, and consistent high performance are key to advancement.
What typical benefits, such as leave, medical aid, and pension, are usually provided for an Advisor-level role in an NGO in Zimbabwe?
Most reputable NGOs in Zimbabwe offer comprehensive benefits packages for advisor-level staff, typically including competitive annual leave, sick leave, and potentially study leave. Access to a robust medical aid plan for the employee and sometimes dependents is common, along with contributions to a pension fund in accordance with local labor laws. Specific benefits can vary based on the organization's internal policies and funding, so it's best to confirm during the interview stage.
What is the best way to apply for this type of role in Zimbabwe, and what specific qualities do employers look for in candidates?
Applications are typically submitted online through the organization's official website or reputable local job portals, requiring a detailed CV and a compelling cover letter tailored to the specific role's requirements. Employers in Zimbabwe, especially for advisory logistics roles, seek candidates with proven problem-solving skills, strong ethical conduct, excellent communication, and a deep understanding of local logistical challenges and compliance. Demonstrating adaptability, teamwork, and a genuine commitment to the humanitarian mission is highly valued.