Programme Operations Intern

Meta Description: Join Mary’s Meals as a Programme Operations Intern in Turkana County, Kenya. Learn more about this exciting opportunity to make a real impact while gaining valuable experience in logistics and fleet management.

About Mary’s Meals

Mary’s Meals (MM) is a global movement dedicated to a singular mission: ensuring that every child receives a nutritious daily meal within an educational setting. With the collective support of individuals from all walks of life, we’re currently changing the lives of over 2 million children who receive Mary’s Meals every day. At Mary’s Meals Kenya (MMK), we operate a Primary School and Early Childhood Development center feeding program, guided by our core values: Confidence in the innate goodness of people, Respecting the dignity of every human being and family life, and good stewardship of entrusted resources.

In addition to these values, safeguarding children and vulnerable adults is at the heart of how we work. We strive for all who are part of Mary’s Meals to embody our three values: Simplicity, Service, and Stewardship.

Position Overview

We are excited to announce an internship opportunity in Lodwar, Turkana County, Kenya. As a Programme Operations Intern, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of our fleet, logistics, warehouse processes, and vendor management. You’ll work under the guidance of the Programme Operations Lead to make a meaningful impact on our mission.

Key Responsibilities

Programme Operations

• Training Records: Maintain records of MMK drivers and riders’ training in collaboration with the Learning and Development Officer.
• Adherence Monitoring: Follow up on driving staff adherence to key processes and procedures post-training.
• Documentation: Track the expiration of insurance covers and driving licenses, and oversee the renewal process.
• Vehicle Management: Assist in the issuance of vehicle keys, ID tags, and fuel cards, maintaining accurate records.
• Inspections: Inspect MMK vehicles for cleanliness before and after journeys, preparing reports as needed.
• Financial Records: Maintain and update all fuel and maintenance transaction documents.
• Insurance Claims: Complete insurance claim forms and oversee claims reporting.
• Data Analysis: Analyze fuel transactions and repairs on a monthly basis.
• Maintenance Coordination: Coordinate requests for vehicle maintenance and prepare job cards.
• Vehicle Assignments: Assist in vehicle allocation to facilitate movement plans.
• Contract Database: Maintain a database of contracts for all transport service providers.
• DVIR Assistance: Assist drivers in completing Daily Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs).
• Interdepartmental Coordination: Liaise and coordinate with other departments regarding their transportation needs.
• Visitor Transportation: Organize transportation for visitors, including airport transfers.
• Maintenance Scheduling: Track and schedule routine vehicle maintenance as per manufacturer guidelines.
• Post-Service Inspection: Ensure post-service inspection of vehicles to manufacturer recommendations.
• Document Compliance: Confirm that all required vehicle documents (e.g., insurance, COF) are displayed appropriately.

Fleet Management and Compliance

• Fleet Manual: Learn, understand, and apply the MMI Fleet Manual, SOPs, and local driving laws.
• Software Utilization: Learn and utilize FMS & GEOTAB software to support fleet operations.
• Data Management: Enter accurate data into the FMS as required by the Fleet Manual.
• Reporting: Assist in preparing monthly reports and variance analysis on vehicle usage and fuel consumption.

Warehouse Management and Compliance

• Warehouse Maintenance: Help maintain a clean, orderly, and safe warehouse following MMK policies.
• Inventory Management: Maintain detailed and accurate records of stock receipt, storage, and dispatch to schools.
• Labor Coordination: Coordinate hired casual labor for warehouse operations and review invoices.
• Stock Control: Assist in monthly physical counts, reconcile variances, and update records.
• Stock Dispatch: Support the receiving and dispatching of stocks according to approved plans and SOPs.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders for efficient warehouse operations.

Other

• Ad-Hoc Tasks: Be prepared for any other responsibilities assigned from time to time.

Essential Qualifications, Skills, and Experience

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Procurement and Logistics Management, Commerce, Business Management, or Administration with an International Diploma in Logistics and Transport.
• Nationality: A citizen of Kenya.
• Recent Graduate: Graduated no earlier than 2021 from a recognized University.
• Technical Skills: Practical knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel & Word.
• Communication: Strong communication skills with cultural sensitivity, able to work well with diverse individuals.
• Organization: Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and implement actions effectively.
• Interpersonal Skills: Well-developed interpersonal skills, with the ability to network, persuade, and influence others.
• Adaptability: Ability to learn quickly, work independently, meet deadlines, and provide practical solutions.
• Analytical Thinking: Ability to think critically, analyze complex information, and offer effective solutions.
• Resilience: Highly resilient, self-reliant, motivated, and attentive to detail.
• Proactive: A proactive, flexible, and results-driven approach.

Desirable Qualifications, Skills, and Experience

• Driving License: Possession of a clean valid BCE driving license will be an advantage.
• Experience: Previous experience in a warehouse and logistics management role is a plus.

How to Apply

If you’re seeking a role that combines learning with impactful work, and if our mission, vision, and values resonate with you, we would love to hear from you. Please email your application, including your expected stipend and CV (with contact information for three referees), to jobs.kenya@marysmeals.org. In the subject line, indicate the position title and your name.

Application Deadline: Tuesday, 26th September 2023 at 16:30 hours. Early applications are encouraged, as we will review them on a rolling basis. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

At Mary’s Meals, we never ask candidates to pay any money or fees for tests at any stage of the interview process.

Expert Tips To Be A Successful Applicant

1. Tailor Your Application: Customize your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the specific responsibilities of this role. For example, if you’ve previously managed warehouse operations, emphasize that expertise.

2. Show Your Commitment: Demonstrate a strong alignment with Mary’s Meals’ mission and values in your cover letter. Share examples of how you’ve supported similar causes or worked in environments with similar values.

3. Excel in Communication: Given the emphasis on communication skills, provide clear and concise examples in your CV or cover letter that showcase your ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with diverse teams.

4. Detail Orientation: Showcase your attention to detail, an essential quality for this role, by ensuring your application materials are error-free and well-organized.
5. Proactive Attitude: Highlight instances where you’ve taken initiative and demonstrated a proactive approach, as this trait is highly valued in our team.

By following these expert tips, you’ll enhance your chances of becoming a successful applicant and contributing to our mission of providing nutritious meals to children in need. Good luck with your application!