Procurement Internship Opportunity – 2024 – APPLY TODAY

Procurement Internship Opportunity

Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Job Level: Intern
Contract Type: Internship

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Company Description

About SNV

At SNV, we are driven by a mission to foster global development, deeply embedded in the communities we serve. Guided by the transformative principles of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we are dedicated to building resilient agri-food systems, enhancing water and sanitation infrastructure, and advancing access to sustainable energy worldwide. Our work extends to strengthening institutions, fostering market development, and promoting effective governance across agri-food, energy, and water sectors. Committed to reducing gender disparities, promoting social inclusion, and mitigating climate and biodiversity challenges, we strive to maximize positive, enduring impacts.

With a diverse team of over 1,600 professionals, predominantly indigenous to the regions we serve, SNV operates in more than 20 countries across Africa and Asia. We prioritize resource stewardship, evidence-based practices, and collaborative partnerships to achieve sustainable outcomes. Rooted in our core values of people-centeredness, equity, diversity, and inclusion, we are guided by our vision, mission, and strategic objectives, shaping our trajectory towards 2030.

To learn more about SNV’s operations in Kenya and globally, visit our website: www.snv.org

SNV in Kenya

Presently, SNV Kenya oversees 15 local and multi-country projects spanning Agri-Food, Energy, and Water sectors. Our country office, headquartered in Nairobi, is complemented by field offices in Eldoret, Nanyuki, and Kakuma.

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Job Description

Position: Procurement Intern

SNV Kenya is in search of a dedicated procurement intern to bolster our procurement operations. The incumbent will play a pivotal role in executing day-to-day procurement tasks while upholding SNV’s procurement policies. Key responsibilities include:

• Facilitating Procurement Requests: Assist in processing procurement requests across various projects within the organization.
• Supplier Engagement: Solicit and negotiate quotations from suppliers, ensuring cost-effectiveness and timely delivery.
• Quotation Evaluation: Assess supplier quotations and provide recommendations for procurement awards.
• Purchase Order Management: Prepare and disseminate purchase orders in adherence to SNV Kenya policies.
• Supplier Due Diligence: Conduct basic due diligence checks for potential suppliers.
• Framework Agreement Renewal: Support in renewing framework agreements with suppliers.
• Document Management: Maintain meticulous records via SharePoint and ensure document trails for all procurement activities.
• Logistics Coordination: Coordinate timely delivery and dispatch of items to SNV Kenya offices.
• Ad Hoc Tasks: Undertake any additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in procurement/supply chain management.
• Familiarity with procurement processes; prior procurement experience preferred but not mandatory.
• Registration with relevant professional bodies such as CIPS/KISM advantageous.
• Proficiency in SAP By Design desirable.
• Eagerness to learn and comply with organizational procurement policies.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).
• Strong team player with the ability to work independently.
• Proactive problem solver with initiative and accountability.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Goal-oriented, dynamic, and self-motivated individual of integrity.
• Proficient in English and Kiswahili, both written and spoken.

Additional Information

Duration:
This internship spans a duration of 6 months with potential for extension.

Remuneration:
SNV Kenya offers a monthly stipend and covers all field-related costs during the internship, in line with SNV policies.

How to Apply

If you meet the outlined qualifications and are enthusiastic about joining our team, please click on the APPLY button at the end of the page.

We do not entertain third-party mediation based on this advertisement.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

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Expert Tips To Be A Successful Applicant for Procurement Internship

1. Demonstrate Procurement Understanding: Showcase your comprehension of procurement processes, even if you lack direct experience, by highlighting relevant coursework or projects.
2. Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasize proficiency in Microsoft Office and any experience with procurement software, indicating your readiness to navigate procurement tools effectively.
3. Illustrate Team Collaboration: Provide examples of successful collaboration in academic or professional settings, underscoring your ability to contribute to a team environment.
4. Showcase Problem-Solving Skills: Detail instances where you’ve demonstrated proactive problem-solving abilities, indicating your capacity to handle challenges independently.
5. Exhibit Eagerness to Learn: Express enthusiasm for learning and adapting to new environments, demonstrating a willingness to absorb organizational policies and procedures.
6. Emphasize Communication Skills: Highlight instances where you’ve effectively communicated with diverse stakeholders, underscoring your interpersonal skills crucial for procurement roles.
7. Detail Organizational Abilities: Provide examples of managing tasks efficiently and prioritizing workload, showcasing your organizational acumen essential for procurement responsibilities.
8. Exude Proactivity: Describe initiatives you’ve taken independently or projects you’ve initiated, illustrating your proactive approach to tasks and projects.
9. Align with Company Values: Showcase alignment with SNV’s values of equity, diversity, and inclusion, demonstrating your commitment to fostering a positive organizational culture.
10. Be Authentic: Be genuine and transparent throughout your application process, ensuring your application reflects your true capabilities and aspirations.

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Sample Cover Letter for a Procurement Internship

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]

Hiring Manager
SNV Kenya
Nairobi, Kenya

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the Procurement Internship opportunity at SNV Kenya, as advertised. With a Bachelor’s degree in Procurement and a keen interest in sustainable development initiatives, I am excited about the prospect of contributing to SNV’s impactful projects.

During my academic pursuits, I have gained a comprehensive understanding of procurement processes, including supplier engagement, purchase order management, and contract negotiation. My coursework in supply chain management, coupled with hands-on projects, has equipped me with the necessary skills to thrive in a dynamic procurement environment.

Moreover, my proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, coupled with my ability to quickly adapt to new software systems, positions me as a technologically adept candidate ready to navigate procurement tools effectively. My proactive approach to problem-solving, demonstrated through my involvement in [specific examples], further underscores my readiness to tackle challenges independently.

I am particularly drawn to SNV’s commitment to fostering inclusive development and promoting sustainable practices. Aligning with SNV’s values of equity and diversity, I am eager to contribute to initiatives that drive positive change within communities.

Enclosed is my resume, which provides additional details about my academic background and relevant experiences. I am excited about the opportunity to further discuss how my skills and experiences align with SNV’s mission and vision.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to SNV’s impactful projects and learning from the diverse expertise within the organization.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the duration of the internship? The internship spans a period of 6 months with potential for extension based on performance and organizational needs.

2. Is prior procurement experience mandatory? While prior procurement experience is preferred, it is not mandatory. We welcome candidates with a strong academic background and a willingness to learn.

3. What professional bodies should I be registered with? Registration with relevant professional bodies such as CIPS/KISM is preferred but not mandatory.

4. Are there opportunities for career advancement after the internship? SNV Kenya values talent development and offers opportunities for career growth based on performance and organizational requirements.

5. How should I submit my application? Please click on the “I AM INTERESTED” tab on this page to submit your CV and cover letter in English before the specified deadline.

6. Will travel costs be covered during the internship? Yes, SNV Kenya will cover all field-related costs associated with assigned tasks during the internship period, as guided by organizational policies.

7. How will I be notified if I am shortlisted? Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly via email or phone.

8. Can I apply through a third-party mediator? We do not entertain third-party mediation based on this advertisement. Applicants should submit their applications directly through the provided portal.

9. Is proficiency in both English and Kiswahili necessary? Yes, proficiency in both written and spoken English and Kiswahili is required for effective communication within the organization.

10. Does SNV Kenya charge any application/recruitment fee? No, SNV Kenya is an equal opportunity employer and does not charge any application or recruitment fees.

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Possible Procurement Internship Interview Questions With Answers

1. Question: Can you provide an example of a challenging procurement situation you’ve faced in the past and how you resolved it? Answer: Certainly. In my previous role, we encountered delays in supplier deliveries due to logistical issues. I proactively engaged with the supplier to identify alternative shipping methods, ultimately resolving the issue and ensuring timely delivery of goods.
2. Question: How do you prioritize competing procurement requests within a tight timeframe? Answer: I prioritize procurement requests based on urgency, project timelines, and criticality. By effectively communicating with project stakeholders and utilizing project management tools, I ensure that high-priority requests are addressed promptly.
3. Question: How do you handle negotiation with suppliers to achieve cost-effective procurement outcomes? Answer: I approach supplier negotiations with a collaborative mindset, emphasizing long-term partnerships and mutual benefit. By conducting thorough market research and leveraging volume discounts, I negotiate favorable terms while maintaining vendor relationships.
4. Question: Can you discuss a time when you had to handle a disagreement with a team member regarding procurement decisions? Answer: In such situations, I prioritize open communication and constructive dialogue to resolve conflicts. By actively listening to my team member’s concerns, I seek common ground and work towards a mutually agreeable solution that aligns with project objectives.
5. Question: How do you ensure compliance with procurement policies and regulations? Answer: I adhere to procurement policies and regulations by staying informed about relevant legislation and organizational guidelines. Regular audits, documentation of procurement processes, and collaboration with legal and compliance teams ensure adherence to established protocols.

Wishing you the best in your application process! Remember, SNV is committed to attracting and retaining the best talents from diverse backgrounds, and we look forward to welcoming passionate individuals to our team.

THE KENYAN JOB FINDER