Procurement Officer
Job Summary
- Employer: The Roads Directorate
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Maseru, Lesotho
- Category: Procurement
- Closing Date: 2026-09-30
Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in Procurement and Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Commerce, Economics, Law or Engineering.
- At least three (3) years’ relevant experience in public procurement, tender administration, supply chain management or contract administration.
- Demonstrated experience in preparing procurement documents, supporting evaluations, drafting procurement correspondence and maintaining procurement records.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, email and procurement-tracking systems.
How to Apply
About the Company
The Roads Directorate is a government agency of Lesotho responsible for the planning, construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance of the country's public road network. Operating under the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, it manages both urban and rural roads across Lesotho's mountainous terrain, including the capital Maseru and remote districts. The agency plays a critical role in connecting communities, facilitating trade, and supporting economic growth through reliable transport infrastructure. Its work encompasses feasibility studies, project implementation, and routine maintenance of national and district roads throughout the Kingdom of Lesotho.
Building and maintaining Lesotho's road infrastructure for national development.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications do I need to become a Procurement Officer at The Roads Directorate?
A diploma or degree in Supply Chain Management, Procurement, Business Administration, or a related field is typically required. Professional certifications such as CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) or local equivalents from LIMID (Lesotho Institute of Management and Development) strengthen your application. Relevant experience in public sector procurement is often preferred given the governance requirements.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Procurement Officer in Lesotho?
You will prepare tender documents, evaluate bids, negotiate contracts with suppliers, and ensure compliance with the Public Procurement Act and regulations. Maintaining supplier databases, processing purchase orders, and liaising with technical departments on specifications are core duties. Regular reporting to procurement committees and managing procurement records for audit purposes are also essential.
How does the work culture and employer expectations differ in Lesotho's public sector compared to private companies?
Public sector roles like those at The Roads Directorate emphasize strict adherence to procurement regulations, transparency, and accountability to avoid audit queries. Decision-making often involves multiple approval layers and committee reviews, which can slow processes compared to private sector agility. Punctuality, respect for hierarchy, and maintaining detailed documentation are highly valued in Basotho workplace culture.
What career progression opportunities exist for Procurement Officers in Lesotho?
With experience, you can advance to Senior Procurement Officer, Procurement Manager, or Head of Supply Chain positions within government ministries or parastatals. Some professionals transition to international organizations like UN agencies or NGOs operating in Maseru, which offer broader exposure. Further CIPS qualifications and specialized training in public financial management open doors to senior advisory roles.
What benefits typically come with a full-time Procurement Officer position in Lesotho's public sector?
Public sector roles generally include pension contributions through the Public Officers' Defined Contribution Pension Fund, annual leave entitlements, and medical aid schemes. The Roads Directorate may offer additional benefits such as housing allowances or transport subsidies depending on grade level. Job security and stable employment terms are significant advantages compared to contract-based private sector roles.
How should I apply for a Procurement Officer role, and what do Lesotho employers prioritize in candidates?
Monitor the Government of Lesotho gazette, Public Service Commission announcements, and The Roads Directorate website for advertised vacancies. Submit a detailed CV highlighting compliance knowledge, experience with local suppliers, and familiarity with PFMA regulations. Employers prioritize integrity, attention to detail, and demonstrated ability to navigate Lesotho's procurement regulatory framework transparently.