Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Organization: United Nations World Food Programme (WFP)
Job Title: Senior Driver
Employment Type: Full-time
Posting Date: Recently Published
Job Requisition ID: JR111570
Application Deadline: 17 April 2025 at 23:59 (GMT+03:00) East Africa Time
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian agency, dedicated to ending hunger, saving lives in emergencies, and building resilience for the future. Operating in over 120 countries and territories, WFP is a global leader in delivering food assistance and addressing the root causes of hunger. The organization’s mission includes supporting communities recovering from natural disasters, conflict, and climate change-related impacts.
WFP continues to pioneer solutions for zero hunger while prioritizing sustainability, innovation, and collaboration with governments, private sector partners, and non-governmental organizations.
Organizational Values and Diversity
WFP is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. The organization provides equal employment opportunities for all employees and encourages applications from qualified individuals regardless of race, ethnicity, nationality, social background, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, disability, or health status. WFP’s workforce is governed by five core values that inform every aspect of its operations: Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion.
Why Consider a Career with WFP?
- Global Recognition: Recipient of the 2020 Nobel Peace Prize for its efforts to combat hunger and foster peace in conflict-affected areas.
- Inclusive Culture: A multicultural and respectful work environment that welcomes staff from diverse backgrounds.
- Career Growth: Opportunities to build a meaningful and impactful career with room for professional and personal development through internal mobility, on-the-job learning, mentorship, and training.
- Global Exposure: Work across various offices around the world, contributing to international humanitarian goals.
- Compensation: Competitive remuneration and benefits aligned with United Nations standards (specifics detailed in the terms and conditions of employment).
Position Summary: Senior Driver
The Senior Driver role at WFP Nairobi is a vital support position tasked with providing safe, efficient, and dependable transportation to senior WFP officials, UN dignitaries, and visitors. The role also entails overseeing driving schedules, ensuring vehicle maintenance, and offering basic administrative support. The incumbent will operate under limited supervision and is expected to demonstrate exceptional reliability, discretion, and client service.
Key Responsibilities
The Senior Driver will be entrusted with the following responsibilities:
1. Executive Transportation Services
- Provide secure and efficient transportation for senior WFP staff, United Nations officials, and visiting personnel.
- Translate simple conversations from and into the local language when necessary.
- Ensure that travel is in accordance with UN safety and security protocols.
2. Transport Coordination
- Plan, manage, and assign travel routes and schedules for other WFP drivers to ensure seamless transport services for clients.
- Monitor route optimization to reduce fuel consumption and improve efficiency.
3. Airport and Protocol Assistance
- Greet and assist WFP guests and senior officials at airports or other designated entry points.
- Provide assistance with visa and customs clearance to ensure a smooth and secure entry process.
4. Vehicle Log and Maintenance
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date vehicle logbooks.
- Report any mechanical issues promptly to ensure timely repairs and minimize operational downtime.
- Plan and coordinate routine and non-routine vehicle maintenance.
5. Safety and Regulatory Compliance
- Ensure WFP vehicles are fully compliant with travel authorization and safety requirements.
- Maintain essential safety tools and emergency kits on board.
- Adhere strictly to field delivery regulations, emergency protocols, and accident reporting standards.
6. Administrative and Office Support
- Support office operations by performing routine clerical tasks such as filing, photocopying, and bill payments when not engaged in driving duties.
- Assist with logistics services such as mail delivery and office supply errands.
Required Qualifications and Skills
Education
- Completion of secondary school education.
- Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
Technical Skills and Knowledge
- Excellent knowledge of local routes, road conditions, driving regulations, and security protocols.
- Familiarity with chauffeur protocols and diplomatic courtesies.
- Ability to coordinate transportation schedules and assign routes.
- Working knowledge of vehicle safety standards and emergency response equipment.
- Proficient in basic mechanical assessment and minor vehicle repairs.
- Understanding of vehicle specifications including loading capacity and fuel economy.
- Proficient in using communication tools such as radios, email, and telephones.
- Knowledge of basic first aid is advantageous.
Behavioral Competencies
- Strong sense of responsibility and accountability.
- Professionalism, discretion, and courtesy when dealing with senior officials and guests.
- Adaptability to work under pressure and in multicultural teams.
- Demonstrated client-oriented mindset with the ability to anticipate service needs.
Application Process
Interested candidates must apply online by completing their WFP profile and submitting the required documents. Here is a step-by-step breakdown:
Before Applying
- Ensure that your WFP online profile is fully updated and accurate.
- Include complete information about your academic history, employment experience, language proficiencies, and, where applicable, your UN grade.
- Upload a professional CV written in English.
Documents Required at the Application Stage
- Updated CV
- Cover Letter
Note
Additional supporting documents such as identification documents, academic credentials, and recommendation letters may be requested during the later stages of the recruitment process. However, these are not required at the time of initial application.
Application Deadline
All applications must be submitted no later than 17 April 2025 at 23:59 East Africa Time (GMT+03:00). Late submissions will not be considered.
Important Considerations
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- The selection process may include a driving test and/or a competency-based interview.
- WFP retains the right to withdraw the position if needed or close the application process prior to the deadline based on operational requirements.
Working Environment at WFP
As a staff member at WFP, you will be part of a global community striving to eliminate hunger and poverty. WFP’s Nairobi office serves as a key regional hub, supporting various field operations and working closely with governments, humanitarian partners, and donor agencies. The work culture emphasizes teamwork, impact-driven action, and ethical service.
The position of Senior Driver offers not only a stable and rewarding role but also a chance to be part of meaningful humanitarian initiatives that have global significance.
