Hi, I’m
HELEN NDIKANWU
Rome,RM
Summary
Dynamic and globally experienced expert in emergency and field operations with over 16 years of experience across various parastatals and the United Nations. Specializing in supply chain, cash-based transfers program operations, emergency response (food and non-food), procurement, contracting, vendor, and stakeholder management. Possessing an advanced degree in disaster and risk management. Successfully navigated challenging environments both in the field and global office settings. Cross-functional expertise in end-to-end logistics and program management consistently driving efficiency and cost savings. Strong passion for addressing humanitarian challenges through strategic innovation. Skilled in sophisticated project management and process operations. Proven track record of delivering sustainable results and independently contributing to the development of operating policies and procedures. Known for tenacity and adaptability in dynamic situations faced by internally displaced communities. Effective team leader empowering diverse international teams to execute initiatives that enhance systems, processes, and results. Merging program management, people development, strategic planning, cross-functional collaboration, and humanitarian practices to consistently achieve organizational goals. Leveraging proven methods and advanced technologies to reduce costs, streamline operations, and boost productivity. Assertive and enthusiastic approach combined with extensive expertise in process optimization and exceptional work ethic. Dedicated to making a significant impact in the field of emergency and field operations.
Overview
17
years of professional experience
1
Certification
Work History
WORLD FOOD PROGRAMME
Supply Chain Officer: Field Support (EPRP)
02.2024 - Current
Job overview
- As the focal point for the Regional Bureau Nairobi (RBN), I play a pivotal role in supporting field teams on behalf of the Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) services
- My responsibilities are centered around ensuring the effective planning, coordination, and execution of programmatic operations during emergencies
- Lead in Field Support for RBN: I lead field support for EPR initiatives, working closely with regional bureau offices to guarantee rapid and effective emergency responses
- Oversight and Support The Bureau: I maintain a comprehensive overview of ongoing activities across the region, ensuring smooth operational continuity
- Delivering Timely Updates to Senior Management: As a bridge between field teams and senior management, I ensure decision-makers are equipped with actionable insights
- Deployment and On-Ground EPR Support: I provide hands-on support through direct deployments to RBs and COs, reinforcing emergency response capabilities
- Planning and Facilitating Learning Exchanges: such as meetings and webinars, to facilitate knowledge sharing and the adoption of best practices. Knowledge sharing is critical for continuous improvement
- Promoting Good Practices Across Operations: I participate in the reviewing of documents to update existing policies or putting together new policies
- Ensuring Corporate Alignment in Emergency Responses: Collaboration is key to ensuring a unified approach to emergency response
- Coordination of Technical Support: During emergencies, I ensure that RBs and COs receive adequate technical support
- Staffing and Surge Capacity Management: I coordinate with global entities to address staffing needs in emergencies
WORLD FOOD PROGRAMME
Supply Chain Officer: Deployment Officer (GSCU)
06.2023 - 02.2024
Job overview
- Designed, reviewed, and executed Mobilization and Dispatch Plans to support global emergency response operations
- Led the end-to-end mobilization of colleagues in response to disasters, ensuring efficient deployment of emergency response teams
- Ensured adherence to stringent timelines, achieving rapid deployment of response teams within 48 to 72 hours of disaster notifications
- Managed emergency communications, providing timely updates to deployed teams and stakeholders regarding deployment statuses and operational changes
- Developed and analyzed dispatch and mobilization processes regularly, implementing improvements to enhance efficiency and effectiveness
- Created comprehensive program materials for the YETI program, including learning schedules, briefings, articles, and supporting documentation.
- Prepared executive-level presentations, including detailed analyses and scenario planning, to drive strategic discussions and decision-making at the executive level
WORLD FOOD PROGRAMME
Logistics Associate (Market & Retail Expert)
06.2019 - 06.2023
Job overview
- Actively participate in internal and external coordination meetings, including Cash Working Group (CWG), to represent WFP’s interests
- Build and manage collaborative partnerships with donors, local authorities, financial service providers (FSPs), retailers, telecom operators, and other stakeholders
- Plan, participate, develop, and review Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for CBT implementation
- Lead the onboarding and contracting of retailers using the ROC application, ensuring compliance with WFP’s guidelines and standards
- Utilize the SCOPE platform to register beneficiaries, manage entitlements, and monitor the distribution of assistance
- Collaborate with functional units such as Procurement, Logistics, Finance, IT, Operations, Programme, and Administration to develop and implement emergency contingency management plans
WORLD FOOD PROGRAMME
Logistics Assistant
12.2017 - 06.2019
Job overview
- Assessed contracted and maintained a retailers' database system to ensure efficient service provision and administrative partnerships
- Provided guidance and acted as a referral point for partners
- Managed the establishment of beneficiary sites/locations for cooperating partners and retailers during distribution cycles
- Monitored partner supply chain operations to ensure robust controls and systems were in place
- Prepared executive-level presentations with detailed analyses to support strategic decision-making
Viable Freight Services Limited
Logistics Officer (Ports Operations)
01.2013 - 01.2017
Job overview
- Defined and aligned corporate objectives with operational goals, assessed resource needs, and directed efforts to achieve desired outcomes
- Managed transportation activities, including goods storage, transportation coordination, and the flow of information from origin to delivery
- Supervised and trained logistics personnel in areas such as fleet management, distribution, asset tracking, and contract management
- Delivered accurate and timely reports, offering comprehensive analyses of supply chain activities and trends to support decision-making
Advanced Logistics And Procurement Services
Logistics and Administrative Assistant
01.2008 - 01.2013
Job overview
- Plan, coordinate, and manage all aspects of protocol support to ensure seamless execution
- Provide comprehensive administrative assistance to logistics, shipping, and transportation departments
- Handle incoming shipments, maintain accurate inventory documentation, and resolve customer service issues
- Organize and execute high-profile domestic and international visits, events, and ceremonies
Education
University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Borno
M.Sc. from Disaster and Risk Management
University of Lagos, Yaba, Lagos
B. Sc from Business Administration
Skills
- Humanitarian Operations and Management
- Conflict Management
- Commercial and Logistics Process
- Organizational Leadership
Certification
- Prevention of Fraud, Corruption, and SEA at WFP Ethics and Standards of Conduct at WFP: A Focus on our Practical Obligations
- Ethics Standards of Conduct at WFP: A Focus on Our Practical Obligations
- United Nations Course on Prevention of Harassment, Sexual Harassment, and Abuse of Authority
- Ethics and Standards of Conduct at WFP
- BSAFE
- Introduction to Market Analysis
- United Nations Human Rights Responsibilities
- Procurement Basics
- Strategic Procurement
- Basics of procurement and contracting
- All Staff Know Gender
- I Know Gender
- Women's Security Awareness Training (WSAT)
- Cash-Based Transfers – FOUNDATIONS
- Cash Based Transfer-Programme
- Cash Based Transfer-IT
- Cash based Transfer-Fundamentals
- Urban Cash Transfer Programming and livelihoods
- Harmonized Approach to Cash Transfers-HACT
- The Procurement Process
- Procurement Negotiation
- Cash And Voucher Assistance-The Fundamentals
- Procurement And Contracting
- WINGS II SAP Basic Navigation Course
- The Integrated Road Map Course – IRM
- SEC- Basic Security in The Field
References
Available on request.
Hobbies and Interests
- Travelling
- Reading
- Interacting with people
- Writing
- Playing chess
- Working with the computer
Skillsandexpertisehighlight
Development and implementation of WFP activities globally and in the field. Facilitate operational work process and provide food assistance to vulnerable people, manage critical humanitarian project deliveries and priorities for internally displaced persons, on behalf of the World Food Programme., Skilled and experienced in dealing with individuals and the public, resolving conflict, and defusing volatile situations before they escalate., Managed port operations; ensured compliance with customs laws, notifications, tariffs, rules, and guidelines. Monitor port operations and necessary documentation needed for upstream activities and ensure all consignments are cleared immediately after they arrive at the port., Valued mentor and leader; provides employees with the autonomy to do their work well while building strong, personal relationships to improve communication and advance humanitarian development efforts. Function as a key decision-maker and observe report preparation implementation for WFP activities and sensory perception. Manage challenging client scenarios and tactfully deal with their escalation., Persuasive and concise communicator; experienced in dealing with all management levels in varied industries and Coaching Subordinates for greater Understanding and Productivity. Built credibility, established rapport, and maintained communication with corporate, domestic, and global partners., Proficient with the use of Microsoft Office tools, Client Relationship Management Systems (CRMS), Spreadsheets, Databases, online research, and analytics.
Timeline
Supply Chain Officer: Field Support (EPRP)
WORLD FOOD PROGRAMME
02.2024 - Current
Supply Chain Officer: Deployment Officer (GSCU)
WORLD FOOD PROGRAMME
06.2023 - 02.2024
Logistics Associate (Market & Retail Expert)
WORLD FOOD PROGRAMME
06.2019 - 06.2023
Logistics Assistant
WORLD FOOD PROGRAMME
12.2017 - 06.2019
Logistics Officer (Ports Operations)
Viable Freight Services Limited
01.2013 - 01.2017
Logistics and Administrative Assistant
Advanced Logistics And Procurement Services
01.2008 - 01.2013
University of Lagos
B. Sc from Business Administration
- Prevention of Fraud, Corruption, and SEA at WFP Ethics and Standards of Conduct at WFP: A Focus on our Practical Obligations
- Ethics Standards of Conduct at WFP: A Focus on Our Practical Obligations
- United Nations Course on Prevention of Harassment, Sexual Harassment, and Abuse of Authority
- Ethics and Standards of Conduct at WFP
- BSAFE
- Introduction to Market Analysis
- United Nations Human Rights Responsibilities
- Procurement Basics
- Strategic Procurement
- Basics of procurement and contracting
- All Staff Know Gender
- I Know Gender
- Women's Security Awareness Training (WSAT)
- Cash-Based Transfers – FOUNDATIONS
- Cash Based Transfer-Programme
- Cash Based Transfer-IT
- Cash based Transfer-Fundamentals
- Urban Cash Transfer Programming and livelihoods
- Harmonized Approach to Cash Transfers-HACT
- The Procurement Process
- Procurement Negotiation
- Cash And Voucher Assistance-The Fundamentals
- Procurement And Contracting
- WINGS II SAP Basic Navigation Course
- The Integrated Road Map Course – IRM
- SEC- Basic Security in The Field
University of Maiduguri
M.Sc. from Disaster and Risk Management
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