Assignment period: 01.06.2026 – 31.05.2027
Location: Damascus
Type of contract: National contract based on Syrian labour law
Type of employment: Fulltime
GIZ has been operating in Syria since 1976. It has thus established valuable contacts in civil society and garnered experience that is now crucial for supporting the country. From 2013 onwards, it worked without government involvement with the assistance of local non-governmental organizations. Despite the difficult conditions, GIZ has consistently contributed to improving people’s living conditions.
In view of the developments since December 2024, which have led Syria into a decisive phase of transformation, GIZ plans to reopen its Country Office in Damascus in 2026. It is currently implementing ten projects on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the Federal Foreign Office (FFO), with co-financing from the European Union and other donors. From 2026, the portfolio is planned to be expanded by several new projects.
The Head of Procurement and Contracting is responsible for the strategic and operational management of procurement and contracting processes within GIZ Syria Service Unit. The position ensures efficient, transparent, and compliant procurement of goods and services, as well as the preparation and management of all financing agreements, in line with GIZ rules and regulations. The role provides advisory services to management and projects on procurement and contracting strategies, supports decision-making on complex procurement and contractual matters, and contributes to the continuous improvement of systems and procedures. The Head of Procurement and Contracting will be responsible for the Procurement Unit in GIZ Syria Service Unit and all contract officers as well as supporting the Head of Service Unit in the digital transformation tasks foreseen in GIZ including SAP S/4HANA.
Your tasks
- Ensuring the alignment of all procurements, contracts, and financing agreements with GIZ rules and regulations
- Assuring that the different contractual processes are carried out with high quality and in a timely manner
- Ensuring that an adequate internal control system principle is in place (separation of functions, cross-check principle, and observation of the Code of Conduct and procurement rules), together with the respective Programme Managers and the Head of GIZ Syria Service Unit
- Setting up appropriate monitoring tools and maintaining existing ones to oversee procurement plans and ongoing contractual processes
- Taking necessary measures to reduce compliance risks in coordination with the Head of GIZ Syria Service Unit
- Safeguarding the correct handling of procurement services for project implementation, taking into account current procurement regulations
- Ensuring compliance with the EU sanctions list check in accordance with GIZ rules and regulations, as well as departmental and country requirements
- Advising management and project teams on procurement and contracting strategies, including the selection of appropriate modalities, and supporting decision-making on complex procurement and contractual matters
- Coordinating with internal units, the country office, headquarters, and external stakeholders, and maintaining effective working relationships with partners, suppliers, and other stakeholders
- Ensuring effective communication and alignment between procurement activities and programme objectives
- Leading capacity development initiatives by providing training, guidance, and support to staff and stakeholders
- Promoting knowledge sharing and continuous improvement within the unit
- Where appropriate and reasonable, performing additional tasks upon request of the management
Your profile (required qualifications, competencies and experience)
- Master’s degree (MBA/MSc) in business administration, supply chain management, procurement, economics, law, or a related field. Alternatively Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with extensive professional experience.
- Minimum 10 years of professional experience in procurement, contracting, or supply chain management. Experience in GIZ procurement rules and regulations is an extra asset.
- At least 3 years of proven experience in management or leadership role.
- Experience in working with international organisations.
- Strong communication and coordination skills.
- Ability to work in a structured, efficient, and transparent manner according to GIZ standards.
- Flexibility and willingness to take on additional tasks when required.
- Strong problem-solving attitude, with a proactive and service-oriented approach.
- Professional fluency in written and spoken English and Arabic, knowledge of German is an asset.
How to apply
The following minimum requirements for applications need to be fulfilled:
- Only application documents in English will be accepted. Documents in Arabic cannot be considered during the selection process.
- Mandatory documents are CV and application letter in English stating your qualifications and previous professional experiences.
The deadline for application is 30.04.2026. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
GIZ is committed to diversity and gender balance. It is encouraging persons with disabilities to apply for the position.
Please submit your application to hr.syria@giz.de indicating in the subject line the respective title of the position.