PROCUREMENT OFFICER (Temporary Job Opening)

This position is located in the Division of Administration, Central Support Services, Purchase and Transportation Section, Procurement and Contracts Unit of the United Nations Office at Geneva.

Under the general supervision of the Chief of the Procurement and Contracts Unit, the incumbent, within limits of delegated procurement:

• Plans, develops and manages 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.
• 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.
• Formulates strategies and designs innovative solutions to resolve issues/conflicts for complex procurement projects.
• Establishes and maintains work program and schedule 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.

PROFESSIONALISM: Proven ability to manage complex procurement cases for a diverse range of products and services. Knowledge of Financial Regulations and Rules, Procurement Manual and procedures. 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. 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.

Advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business administration, public administration, engineering, law, procurement, supply chain or a related field. A first-level university degree in combination with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree.

Successful completion of both degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics or data science programs is desirable. A professional certification such as the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS) Level 4 or equivalent is required. Certification in construction is desirable.

A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in procurement, contract management, administration or related area is required. 2 years or more of experience in data analytics or related area is desirable.

English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this job opening, English and French are required.

Evaluation of qualified candidates may include an assessment exercise which may be followed by competency-based interview.