Supply Chain Specialist (System Strengthening Focus) 12mos. Fixed-Term Maternity Cover

Supply Chain Specialist (System Strengthening Focus) 12mos. Fixed-Term Maternity Cover

Temporary 63000 - 77000 £ / year (est.) Hybrid
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead supply chain initiatives to enhance Sexual and Reproductive Health services globally.
  • Company: Join IPPF, a dynamic organisation focused on empowering women and girls.
  • Benefits: Flexible remote-office hybrid work, competitive salary, and professional development opportunities.
  • Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a mission-driven organisation.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in global health while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
  • Qualifications: Experience in supply chain management and strong communication skills required.

The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.

Application Closing Date

30th October 2026 - interviews commence 16th November must be available to start 05th January 2027

Context of Role

Role is remote-office hybrid (2 days in London office) if based in United Kingdom. IPPF cannot provide visa sponsorship for this role.

IPPF is in the fourth year of implementing its renewed 6-year Strategy (2023-2028), which is focused around 4 pillars (Centre care on people, Move the sexuality agenda, Solidarity for change and Nurture the federation).

This strategy will ensure the Federation is well-positioned to respond with agility to the needs of women, girls, and all the people it serves.

The supply chain team is an internal service delivery provider to MA’s and projects in the Federation focusing on delivering against the 1st pillar of the strategy, thus ensuring that IPPF MA’s timely receive their commodities to be able to execute their SRH services under different routes to market.

The supply chain team is continuously developing its framework of standardised processes, resulting in the internal dissemination of supply chain best practices to contribute to the target of widened access under the first pillar of the 6-year strategy.

The supply chain specialist will lead the planning, budgeting and implementation of a broadened supply chain strengthening initiative, in close collaboration with both internal and external technical stakeholders, , with the goal to set priorities in targeting improved supply chain processes which are well defined and measured.

Role Purpose

To support the effective management and supply of Sexual and Reproductive Health Commodities on behalf of IPPF Member Association (MA); to contribute to and provide oversight of operational execution of supply chain management operations where and when required.

To maintain and continuously improve relevant SCM guidance, tools, processes and operational documentation, ensuring these remain accurate, practical and up to date.

To own the process of supply chain system strengthening within the Federation, inclusive of planning, budgeting, implementation and continuous improvement.

  • Deliverables
  • Maintain and continuously improve the relevant supply chain quality management system and processes, guidance, tools and operational documentation.
  • Provide supply chain input into WISH and wider quality-of-care, pharmaceutical due diligence and other relevant quality-related initiatives, working with appropriate technical colleagues where required.
  • Collaborate with MAs on the development and implementation of multi-yearsupply chain system strengthening activity plans and budgets.
  • Develop, implement and continuously improve practical supply chain tools, frameworks, guidance and resources to support MAs needs across different operating contexts.
  • Assess MA supply chain capabilities, capacity and maturity, and develop appropriate strengthening-approaches, including forecasting, data use, training and technical assistance.
  • Lead the development and implementation of digital supply stock management and supply chain systems strengthening across MAs, supporting appropriate tiered progression from manual to digital and the integrations of systems in line with MA needs, capacity and operating context.
  • Work with relevant internal and external stakeholders to ensure supply chain requirements are integrated into wider Federation digital systems, data and transformation initiatives.
  • Take lead on the WISH operational requirements, whilst supporting oversight and continuous improvement of outsourced supply chain operations, including MEG service delivery, and maintain relevant operational processes, quality standards, SOPs, templates and supporting documentation.
  • Fulfill any other reasonable duties assigned from time to time, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability in responding to organisational needs.

Essential Skills

  • Solid understanding of supply chain system strengthening processes, especially those related to sexual and reproductive health, gender issues, and population dynamics is required.
  • Professional written and spoken presentation skills, including for the development of reports, presentations, and the ability to synthesize complex technical documents for both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and capability to develop and maintain broad diversified partnerships is required.
  • Experience using Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) is required.
  • Experience working within a matrix organizational structure is an asset.
  • Up to date knowledge of Good Distribution Practices.

Desirable Skills

  • Qualification in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Economics, International Commerce, Logistics or equivalent.
  • Significant work experience in supply chain management of public health programs, covering areas such as supply management, quality assurance of medical products in the supply chain, particularly involving storage and distribution, supply chain monitoring and evaluation and logistics information systems.
  • Advanced knowledge of ERP and digital supply chain systems, Microsoft Office, and data analysis and visualisation tools, with experience working with and/or implementing digital health, inventory management or logistic management information systems (LMIS).
  • Experience with implementation of applicable standards in medical health supply chains such as GDP and ISO.
  • Experience in developing and delivering in-person and remote training sessions on supply chain elements.
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Supply Chain Specialist (System Strengthening Focus) 12mos. Fixed-Term Maternity Cover employer: International Planned Parenthood Federation

IPPF is an exceptional employer that values innovation and collaboration, offering a dynamic work culture where your contributions directly impact financial sustainability across 14 Member Associations. With opportunities for professional growth through training and international exposure, you will be part of a mission-driven team dedicated to making a meaningful difference in global health. Join us in a role that not only enhances your skills but also empowers communities worldwide.

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Contact Details:

International Planned Parenthood Federation Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Supply Chain Specialist (System Strengthening Focus) 12mos. Fixed-Term Maternity Cover

✨Tap into Temp Agency Networks

If you're eyeing a temporary role in supply chain operations, temp agencies can be your best pals. They often have exclusive contracts with companies like International Planned Parenthood Federation that might not be posted publicly. Get registered with a few reputable agencies and stay in touch—they might just have the perfect gig for you!

✨Make Your Skills Shine

In the world of supply chain operations, showcasing your relevant skills can set you apart in a heartbeat. Try to highlight your experience with logistics software or inventory management techniques when chatting with potential employers. Offer specific examples of how you’ve streamlined operations in the past; it’s all about making that connection!

✨Join Supply Chain Meetups

Getting out there in the community isn’t just for full-time roles! Attend local supply chain meetups and networking events, as they can lead to temporary job opportunities. Plus, you never know—someone in the room could know about an immediate opening at International Planned Parenthood Federation or have tips on where to look.

✨Be Agile and Available

For temporary positions, having flexibility can make you much more desirable to employers. Keep your schedule open and be ready to jump into assignments at short notice. If you can show that you’re adaptable, companies like International Planned Parenthood Federation will notice and might keep you in mind for future temporary opportunities!

We think you need these skills to ace Supply Chain Specialist (System Strengthening Focus) 12mos. Fixed-Term Maternity Cover

Supply Chain Management
Sexual and Reproductive Health Knowledge
Budgeting
Planning
Operational Execution
Quality Management Systems
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)

Some tips for your application 🫡

Highlight Your Supply Chain Knowledge:Make sure you showcase any relevant coursework or experience in supply chain management in your CV. If you've worked with inventory management systems, logistics planning, or demand forecasting, include specific examples to demonstrate your skills—this is key in supply chain operations!

Certifications Can Make a Difference:If you've got any certifications related to supply chain operations, like APICS or Six Sigma, splash them in your CV! They can really help you stand out. Temporary roles often look for candidates who can hit the ground running, so proving you’ve got that extra knowledge is a big plus.

Emphasise Flexibility in Your Application:Since this is a temporary role, it's super important to highlight your flexibility and readiness to adapt to new environments. In your cover letter, mention your ability to learn quickly and your willingness to take on diverse tasks—this shows that you're the right fit for a dynamic supply chain environment.

Make Your CV Concise and Relevant:Keep your CV tight and relevant, focusing on the most important past experiences that relate directly to supply chain operations. Avoid filler and concentrate on the skills and experiences that will impress International Planned Parenthood Federation and relate to the temporary nature of the role. Let's get you that interview!

How to prepare for a job interview at International Planned Parenthood Federation

✨Know Your Supply Chain Tools

Brush up on the specific tools and software commonly used in supply chain operations, like SAP or Oracle. Make sure to highlight your familiarity with these during the interview at International Planned Parenthood Federation, as it shows you're ready to hit the ground running.

✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills

In a temporary role, they’ll want to see how quickly you can adapt and solve problems. Prepare for scenario-based questions that may ask how you’d handle disruptions like delays or inventory shortages. Think of real examples from your past experiences to share!

✨Flexibility is Key

As this is a temporary position, emphasise your willingness to be flexible. Talk about how you’ve quickly adapted to changes in previous roles or how you’re able to step in and learn new processes swiftly, especially those unique to International Planned Parenthood Federation.

✨Prepare for Team Dynamics

Temporary roles often require quick integration into teams. Be ready to discuss your communication style and how you work collaboratively. You might face questions about working with cross-functional teams, so think about how you can highlight your teamwork skills.