Throughout my career as a public procurement specialist, I have had the privilege of working on a diverse range of projects that have not only challenged me but also enriched my understanding of the procurement landscape. In this blog post, I want to share some of the key experiences that have shaped my professional journey and highlight the lessons I’ve learned along the way.
Early Career: Laying the Foundation
My journey in public procurement began in Liberia at the Liberia Revenue Authority, where I worked as a Procurement Specialist from January 2013 to September 2018. In this role, I managed and oversaw the entire bidding process, preparing solicitation documents such as Invitations for Bid (IFB), Requests for Proposals (RFP), and Requests for Quotations (RFQ). Ensuring a fair and transparent process was paramount, and I successfully implemented strategies that reduced the procurement processing cycle by 30%.
One of my proudest achievements during this time was building a competitive bidding environment, which increased bidders’ participation by 90%. This not only ensured the best commodities or services for the Authority but also fostered a culture of inclusivity among suppliers, contractors, and consultants.
Advancing Skills: Complex Projects and Challenges
After my tenure in Liberia, I moved to the United States, where I took on increasingly complex roles. From June to October 2022, I served as a Procurement Officer for the Department of Housing & Community Development in Maryland. In this position, I managed department solicitations and major multi-year contracts, facilitating pre-proposal conferences and overseeing the bid opening and evaluation of bids/proposals. This role honed my ability to navigate the intricate procedures and deadlines inherent to public procurement.
One challenge I faced involved coordinating multiple solicitations simultaneously. By fostering open communication and collaboration with various stakeholders, I was able to meet all deadlines and ensure a smooth procurement process. This experience reinforced the importance of adaptability and proactive risk management in procurement.
Recent Role: Focus on Contract Administration
Most recently, I worked as a Procurement Specialist (Procurement Officer III) in the Office of Central Services, Contract Administration & Procurement Division for Prince George’s County Government from October 2022 to March 2023. Here, I performed a wide range of procurement and contract administration responsibilities, supporting various agencies and departments within the county.
I drafted and executed rider contracts, ratified contracts, initiated contractor cure, show cause, and closeout processes within the prescribed time frames, adhering strictly to County Procurement Regulations and Laws. This role emphasized the importance of compliance and thorough evaluation of supplier performance. I resolved contractor performance issues and disputes, ensuring alignment with contract agreements, which further solidified my negotiation and conflict resolution skills.
Emphasizing Sustainability and Social Responsibility
Throughout my career, I have recognized the vital role that procurement can play in promoting social and environmental responsibility. At the Liberia Revenue Authority, I developed and managed a procurement system aligned with organizational objectives and government standards, which included creating standard operating procedures and a procurement code of ethics. These initiatives laid the groundwork for a transparent and responsible procurement environment.
Leadership and Mentorship
As I gained more experience, I transitioned into leadership roles, focusing on mentoring junior procurement professionals. Leading workshops and training sessions has not only helped others develop their skills but has also reinforced my own understanding of procurement best practices. Supervising procurement staff in Liberia allowed me to guide and support them through complex procurement processes, fostering a collaborative and productive team environment.
Continuous Improvement: Staying Ahead of Trends
In a field that is constantly evolving, I have made it a priority to stay informed about emerging trends and technologies. My experience coordinating multilateral donor funds, such as those from the World Bank, SIDA, and AFDB, has provided me with insight into compliance with international guidelines and the importance of transparency in funding management.
Conclusion: A Journey of Growth and Commitment
My experience in public procurement has been a rewarding journey, marked by challenges, achievements, and continuous learning. Each role has provided valuable lessons that have shaped my approach to procurement and reinforced my commitment to public service.
As I look ahead, I am excited to continue driving innovation and efficiency in procurement processes while advocating for practices that benefit our communities. If you’re interested in discussing procurement strategies or sharing experiences, I would love to connect!
Thank you for joining me on this journey through my experiences in public procurement. Together, let’s continue to improve and elevate the standards of public procurement for the benefit of all.