Responsibilities

Within delegated authority and depending on location, the Assistant Procurement Officer may be responsible for the following duties: • Assists in the planning, development of all procurement and contractual aspects of projects of significant complexity related to worldwide procurement of diverse services and commodities (e.g.

information technology, electronic equipment and instruments, vehicles, medicines, foodstuffs, building maintenance materials, office supplies, construction, furniture, etc.), taking into account local economic and other conditions; • Researches and advises requisitioning units and recipient entities on the full range of procurement issues, providing support and guidance at all stage of the procurement cycle; • Prepares/oversees preparation and distribution of invitations to tender and manages/conducts all aspects of bid/proposal evaluations; • Submits proposals to formulate strategies and designs to innovative solutions for complex procurement projects and issues; • Establishes and maintains work program and schedules for ongoing contracts and newly-planned ones; • Participates in negotiations with senior supplier representatives; signs procurement orders up to the authorized limit, and, in cases where the amount exceeds authorized signature authority, prepares submissions to the Contracts Committee for review and subsequent approval by the authorized official; • Conducts market research to keep abreast of market developments; researches and analyzes statistical data and market reports on the world commodity situation, production patterns and availability of good and services; • Identifies new technologies, and products/services, evaluates and recommends potential supply sources and participates in the incorporation of research results into the procurement program; • Oversees adherence to contractual agreements, recommends amendments and extensions of contracts, and advises concerned parties on contractual rights and obligations; • Prepares a variety of procurement-related documents, contracts, communications, guidelines, instructions, etc.; • Provides guidance to, and may supervise, new/junior staff.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Competencies

Professionalism: Knowledge of internationally recognized procurement standards and of all phases of international procurement techniques and operations used in contracting for a diverse range of goods and services. Knowledge of contract law and expertise in handling complex contract issues. Knowledge of quantitative methods to measure supplier capacity systems and ability to identify sources of supply, market trends and pricing. Ability to shape and influence agreements with requisitioning units and vendors.

Ability to apply technical expertise to resolve a range of issues/problems. Shows pride in work and in achievements. Demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter. Is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results. Is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns. Shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges; remains calm in stressful situations. Takes responsibility for incorporating gender perspectives and ensuring the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work.

Teamwork: Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals. Solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise; is willing to learn from others. Places team agenda before personal agenda. Supports and acts in accordance with final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect own position. Shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings. Planning and organizing: Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies. Identifies priority activities and assignments; adjusts priorities as required.

Allocates appropriate amount of time and resources for completing work. Foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning. Monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary. Uses time efficiently.

Education

A first-level degree (Bachelor’s degree or equivalent) in the specified fields of studies with two additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. An advanced university degree in business administration, procurement, logistics, supply chain management, public administration, commerce, or a related field is desirable.

Job – Specific Qualification

Professional certification such as Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply Certification (CIPS Level 4) or another equivalent is desirable.

Work Experience

A minimum of two (2) years of progressively responsible experience in procurement, contract management, administration or related area is required. At least two (2) years or more of recent or current work experience in Procurement is desirable. A minimum of one year of experience in conducting international tender exercises to award contracts for procurement in the areas of Engineering or General Supplies or transportation services is desirable. Experience in public sector procurement or related administrative processes and procedures is desirable.

Experience working with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems such as SAP or similar system and/or working with e-tendering systems is desirable.

Languages

English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For the position advertised, fluency in English (both in oral and written) is required.