John Gemenze Banga Weregene
Juba
Summary
An accomplished acquisition & Assistance Specialist with a background in International Relations and Diplomatic Studies as well as International Business Administration. I have gained extensive experience in managing the acquisition and assistance process for development projects, ensuring compliance with regulations, and optimizing the efficient utilization of resources. My expertise lies in fostering partnerships, strategic planning, and contract management. I excel at identifying and engaging with key stakeholders, including government entities, non-governmental organizations, and local communities, to forge collaborative relationships that support the successful implementation of development initiatives. By leveraging my background in International Relations and Diplomatic Studies, I bring a nuanced understanding of global dynamics, diplomatic protocols, and intergovernmental cooperation, which enables me to navigate complex political environments and build productive partnerships. In addition, I am adept at conducting thorough needs assessments, market research, and risk analysis to inform procurement strategies. This ensures that resources are allocated efficiently and in a manner that maximizes the impact of development interventions. I integrate environmental, social, and economic considerations into the acquisition and assistance process, ensuring that projects contribute to long-term positive change. By fostering transparent and open lines of communication, I ensure that all parties are well-informed and engaged throughout the procurement process. Thriving in dynamic, multicultural environments is second nature to me. I am adaptable and comfortable working in diverse contexts, collaborating with individuals from different cultural backgrounds and organizational structures. This flexibility enables me to navigate complex situations, drive process improvements, and achieve results even in challenging circumstances. I bring a holistic perspective that combines my knowledge of international relations, diplomacy, and business administration, allowing me to approach the acquisition and assistance process with a strategic mindset and a keen awareness of the broader socio-political context. In summary, I possess the skills and expertise necessary to successfully manage the acquisition and assistance process, foster partnerships, and drive sustainable development. With my commitment to excellence, strong analytical abilities, and effective communication skills, I am well-positioned to make meaningful contributions to impactful development initiatives.
Overview
35
35
years of professional experience
2
2
Languages
Work History
Acquisition & Assistance Specialist
USAID South Sudan
08.2012 - 05.2021
- Collaborated with program managers and stakeholders to develop acquisition plans and strategies that align with the goals and objectives of USAID programs
- This involved conducting market research, identifying potential vendors or partners, and determining the appropriate acquisition methods
- Prepared and issued solicitations, such as requests for proposals (RFPs) or requests for applications (RFAs), to solicit bids or applications from potential contractors, grantees, or partners
- This included developing evaluation criteria, terms, and conditions and ensuring compliance with USAID regulations and procedures
- Participated in the evaluation and selection process to assess and select the most qualified applicants or contractors
- This involved reviewing and analyzing proposals or applications, conducting technical and cost evaluations, and making recommendations for contract or grant award decisions
- Oversaw the administration and management of contracts, grants, and cooperative agreements throughout the project lifecycle
- This involved monitoring and tracking performance, reviewing progress and financial reports, facilitating amendments, and ensuring compliance with contractual obligations and regulations
- Ensured adherence to USAID policies, procedures, and regulations throughout the acquisition and assistance process
- This included conducting compliance reviews, identifying potential risks, and implementing risk mitigation strategies to ensure accountability and integrity in the use of USAID funds
- Provided guidance, training, and technical assistance to USAID staff, partners, and stakeholders on acquisition and assistance policies, procedures, and best practices
- This included promoting knowledge sharing, building capacity, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement in acquisition and assistance activities
- Collaborated with internal and external stakeholders, including program managers, technical experts, government officials, and implementing partners, to ensure effective coordination and alignment of acquisition and assistance activities with program objectives
- This included facilitating communication, resolving issues, and promoting collaboration among stakeholders
- Advised the Technical Team of the advantages and disadvantages of using various A&A mechanisms and provided advice and recommendations to authorities for Justification for Other Than Full and Open Competition and Waivers, as appropriate - researching the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), AIDAR, Automated Directive System (ADS), PEBs, and Acquisition & Assistance Policy Directives (AAPDs), as necessary
- Contacted the technical personnel to resolve any questions that may arise and ensured funds availability and coordinates as necessary with the Mission's Financial Management Office
- Sorted Legal Advisor's (LA) clearance and opinion, if required/necessary, and was held responsible for the entire pre-solicitation process for the assigned Technical Team; this included a review of Statements of Work and Program Descriptions, Evaluation Criteria, Government Estimates, and other pre-award documents
- Worked with FedBizOps/Fed Grants, control receipt/record and safeguard of solicitations; entire interface and using of Global Acquisition & Assistance System (GLAAS), including Federal Procurement Data System (FPDS) and prepared awards and modifications
- Ensured adequate completion of Contractor Performance Evaluations, assigned a wide variety of tasks supporting several offices, and assigned to backstop the Program Office, Democracy and Governance Office, Health Office, and Office of Transition and Conflict Mitigation
- Handled a diverse and complex portfolio comprising a mix of A&A instruments to award and managed and ensured proper A&A administration, including preparation of modification and drafted letters for the Contracting/Agreement Officer; this would include proper award file preparation and documentation
- Oversaw the Fiscal Year Support to ensure OAA/South Sudan meets all obligations for Fiscal Year end
Program Office Rotation
USAID South Sudan
01.2016 - 04.2016
- Assisted with developing a priority procurement action plan from now until the end of the Fiscal Year (FY), assisted with putting in place a modification of the Monitoring Evaluation and Support Project (MESP), and assisted with the preparation of the Quarterly Performance/Financial Reviews
- Supported completing the Acquisition and Assistance Review and Approval Document (AARAD) templates for the new Food Security/Livelihoods Annual Program Statement and assisted with processing of Unsolicited Proposals/Applications and Other duties as assigned
- Assisted program officers and managers in the planning, implementation, and monitoring of development programs and projects
- This involved conducting research, analyzing data, preparing reports, and contributing to program design and evaluation activities
- Participated in the review and evaluation of project proposals or concept papers submitted by potential implementing partners or grantees
- This involved assessing the technical soundness, feasibility, and alignment with USAID's strategic objectives and programmatic priorities
- Supported the monitoring and evaluation activities of USAID programs to assess progress, impact, and effectiveness
- This included data collection and analysis, conducting site visits, reviewing performance reports, and contributing to program performance assessments
- Assisted in the preparation of programmatic reports, including regular progress reports, success stories, and lessons learned
- This involved collecting and synthesizing information from various sources, ensuring accuracy and quality, and complying with reporting requirements and guidelines
- Collaborated with program teams, implementing partners, and other stakeholders to facilitate effective program coordination and communication
- This included organizing meetings, workshops, and events, fostering partnerships, and supporting knowledge-sharing and learning initiatives
- Provided support in policy analysis, programmatic research, and technical assistance activities
- This involved conducting literature reviews, synthesizing information, and contributing to the development of technical guidance, tools, or training materials
- Rotated through different program areas within the mission, such as health, education, agriculture, or governance, to gain exposure to diverse programmatic sectors and approaches
- This allowed for a broader understanding of USAID's work and facilitated cross-functional learning and collaboration
- Participated in training and professional development opportunities to enhance knowledge and skills in program management, development principles, and USAID policies and procedures
- This included attending workshops, webinars, and on-the-job training sessions
- Worked collaboratively with colleagues, program teams, and other mission staff to support the overall goals and objectives of USAID South Sudan
- This involved actively engaging in team discussions, contributing to problem-solving efforts, and fostering a positive and productive work environment
Procurement Administration Specialist
USAID Sudan
08.2009 - 08.2012
- Collaborated with program managers and stakeholders to develop procurement plans and strategies that align with the goals and objectives of USAID programs
- This involved identifying procurement needs, conducting market research, and determining appropriate procurement methods
- Prepared and issued solicitations, such as requests for proposals (RFPs), requests for quotations (RFQs), or invitations for bids (IFBs), to solicit bids or proposals from potential vendors or contractors
- This included developing solicitation documents, terms, and conditions and ensuring compliance with USAID regulations and procedures
- Participated in the evaluation and selection process to assess and select the most qualified vendors or contractors
- This involved reviewing and analyzing bids or proposals, conducting technical and cost evaluations, and making recommendations for contract award decisions
- Oversaw the administration and management of contracts throughout the contract lifecycle
- This included ensuring compliance with contract terms and conditions, monitoring contractor performance, reviewing deliverables, processing payments, and resolving contract-related issues or disputes
- Ensured adherence to USAID procurement policies, procedures, and regulations throughout the procurement process
- This included conducting compliance reviews, identifying potential risks, and implementing risk mitigation strategies to ensure accountability and integrity in the use of USAID funds
- Managed relationships with vendors and contractors
- This includes conducting vendor assessments, maintaining vendor databases, negotiating contract terms, monitoring vendor performance, and addressing any vendor-related issues or concerns
- Maintained accurate procurement records and documentation in accordance with USAID and federal regulations
- This included preparing procurement files, documenting procurement decisions, maintaining contract files, and ensuring proper recordkeeping for audit purposes
- Providing guidance, training, and technical assistance to USAID staff, implementing partners, and stakeholders on procurement policies, procedures, and best practices
- This included promoting knowledge sharing, building procurement capacity, and fostering a culture of compliance and continuous improvement
- Collaborated with internal and external stakeholders, including program managers, technical experts, finance teams, and vendors, to ensure effective coordination and communication throughout the procurement process
- This included engaging in cross-functional collaboration, resolving procurement-related issues, and promoting transparency and efficiency
- Received incoming correspondence; Prepares simple Acquisition and Assistance documents such as approval letters, incremental funding modifications, budget revisions, and related Negotiation Memoranda
- Ensured timely distribution of new awards and modifications for contracts/agreements/grants to contractors and recipients
- Assisted with posting solicitations on FedBizOps; in collaboration with the A&A Specialist or CO; Received and recorded RFPs, RFAs, RFTOPs, and RFIs; in response to solicitations; Maintained and updated OAA electronic information storage systems such as award lists and AOTR/COTR lists
- Provided support to OAA staff both in Juba and the Contracting Officer while on TDY, participated in Request for Task Order Proposal Evaluation, and assisted with numerous OAA actions relating to critical fiscal year-end incremental funding
- Assumed more responsibilities as the only OAA staff member in Juba after the resignation of the lone Acquisition and Assistance Specialist in Juba
- Was a point person for receiving proposals for both the USAID Agriculture (FARM) and Health (SHAP) task order proposals, which were solicited during the year, and sat in on the evaluation team for the Agriculture solicitation, learning aspects of the technical evaluation side of Acquisition
- Attended the worldwide OAA conference in May 2010 in order to gain a more comprehensive experience and exposure to the USAID procurement field via the numerous presentations given during the week, as well as exchanges with other procurement professionals
- Led recruitment of locally-based staff, including both administrative support and technical experts
Procurement Administration Specialist
USAID/Sudan Field Office
08.2007 - 08.2009
- Served as the procurement administration specialist to Sudan Acquisition and Assistance Officers, SAAO, also provided support to Acquisition Specialists and the USAID/SUDAN Strategic Objective Teams and SAAO and performed a broad range of office and procurement administration duties with minimal supervision and guidance
- Provided professional procurement advice and support to SAAO, USAID/SUDAN offices in Juba and Khartoum with an annual collective budget amounting to over $135 million and distributed advertised/posted solicitations and subsequent amendments; managed non-technical queries on advertised solicitations so that requirements of full and open competition are met and that the integrity of the procurement process is upheld
Administrative Assistant
USAID/Sudan Field Office
05.2006 - 08.2007
- Received all incoming written communication and correspondence tracking system for the Executive Office, provided support to the Supervisory Executive Officer, and provided administrative assistance to the Supervisory Executive Officer, Deputy Executive Officers, and other staff in the Executive Office as required
Telecom Operator
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
07.1996 - 08.2003
- Was in Radio Codan communication between 20+ camps and across the board with Ethiopia and Eritrea, Pactor Operator & Fax Operator
Field Team Leader Repatriation
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
07.1996 - 08.2003
- Received Eritrean new arrivals, registered the refugees, distributed relief items, monitored border crossing, and was a cluster coordinator
- Repatriated backlog of Ethiopians and Repatriates Eritreans back home
Financial Clerk
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
07.1996 - 08.2003
- Handled Requests for Cash, disbursed Cash and assisted the Senior Finance Assistant in the preparation of Financial Reports
Administrative Accountant
HelpAge International
05.1989 - 04.1991
- Handled all Administration and Accounts roles: bookkeeping, Cashier, Paying Officer, Financial report, Logistics, Procurement and Supply, Fleet Supervisor, and All HR Roles
Administrative Accountant
Radda Barnen; Swedish Save the Children
05.1989 - 04.1991
- Handled all Administration and Accounts roles: bookkeeping, Cashier, Paying Officer, Financial report, Logistics, Procurement and Supply, Fleet Supervisor, and All HR Roles
Field Monitor/Distributor
Combined Agencies for Relief Team (CART)
05.1986 - 08.1987
- Contacted Survey in Internal Displaced Person (IDP) areas for need assessments and was held responsible for Monitoring and Evaluation in IDP locations
- Delivered Relief items to towns such as Yei, Mundri, Maridi, Yambio, and Tambura and distributed Relief Items to different locations
Education
Masters of Arts - International Relations and Diplomatic Studies
Cavendish University
Bachelor of Science - International Business Administration
United States International University
Skills
Acquisition Management
Citizenship
South Sudanese
Career Profile Summary
An accomplished acquisition & Assistance Specialist with a background in International Relations and Diplomatic Studies as well as International Business Administration. I have gained extensive experience in managing the acquisition and assistance process for development projects, ensuring compliance with regulations, and optimizing the efficient utilization of resources. My expertise lies in fostering partnerships, strategic planning, and contract management. I excel at identifying and engaging with key stakeholders, including government entities, non-governmental organizations, and local communities, to forge collaborative relationships that support the successful implementation of development initiatives. By leveraging my background in International Relations and Diplomatic Studies, I bring a nuanced understanding of global dynamics, diplomatic protocols, and intergovernmental cooperation, which enables me to navigate complex political environments and build productive partnerships. In addition, I am adept at conducting thorough needs assessments, market research, and risk analysis to inform procurement strategies. This ensures that resources are allocated efficiently and in a manner that maximizes the impact of development interventions. I integrate environmental, social, and economic considerations into the acquisition and assistance process, ensuring that projects contribute to long-term positive change. By fostering transparent and open lines of communication, I ensure that all parties are well-informed and engaged throughout the procurement process. Thriving in dynamic, multicultural environments is second nature to me. I am adaptable and comfortable working in diverse contexts, collaborating with individuals from different cultural backgrounds and organizational structures. This flexibility enables me to navigate complex situations, drive process improvements, and achieve results even in challenging circumstances. I bring a holistic perspective that combines my knowledge of international relations, diplomacy, and business administration, allowing me to approach the acquisition and assistance process with a strategic mindset and a keen awareness of the broader socio-political context. In summary, I possess the skills and expertise necessary to successfully manage the acquisition and assistance process, foster partnerships, and drive sustainable development. With my commitment to excellence, strong analytical abilities, and effective communication skills, I am well-positioned to make meaningful contributions to impactful development initiatives.
Timeline
Program Office Rotation
USAID South Sudan
01.2016 - 04.2016
Acquisition & Assistance Specialist
USAID South Sudan
08.2012 - 05.2021
Procurement Administration Specialist
USAID Sudan
08.2009 - 08.2012
Procurement Administration Specialist
USAID/Sudan Field Office
08.2007 - 08.2009
Administrative Assistant
USAID/Sudan Field Office
05.2006 - 08.2007
Telecom Operator
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
07.1996 - 08.2003
Field Team Leader Repatriation
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
07.1996 - 08.2003
Financial Clerk
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
07.1996 - 08.2003
Administrative Accountant
HelpAge International
05.1989 - 04.1991
Administrative Accountant
Radda Barnen; Swedish Save the Children
05.1989 - 04.1991
Field Monitor/Distributor
Combined Agencies for Relief Team (CART)
05.1986 - 08.1987
Bachelor of Science - International Business Administration
United States International University
Masters of Arts - International Relations and Diplomatic Studies
Cavendish University
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