Procurement Officer (Emergency Responses)
Organizational Context
The FAO Procurement Service (CSLP) provides essential advice, guidance, and oversight for all FAO procurement operations and Letter of Agreement (LoA) quality assurance. It supports headquarters and decentralized offices, ensuring goods, works, and services are procured based on the 'Best Value for Money' principle. This role is part of CSLP's surge capacity, designed to offer flexible, hands-on support to decentralized offices facing emergency response needs, increased operational demands, or capacity gaps. While based in Rome, the position primarily supports global field operations through missions and temporary assignments.
Job Purpose
The primary purpose of this role is to ensure the timely, efficient, and effective procurement of goods and services, alongside Quality Assurance for Letters of Agreement, in strict compliance with FAO Rules and Regulations. This involves planning and delivering procurement services aligned with internal policies, UN procurement guidelines, and international standards. The role contributes to the development and updating of operational and policy frameworks, analyzes procurement data for reporting, and provides crucial procurement and regulatory advice to managers at headquarters and in decentralized offices. A key aspect is coordinating initiatives for Corporate Environmental Responsibility, integrating sustainability into daily operations and fostering effective working relationships.
Responsibilities
This position provides critical surge procurement support to FAO Decentralized Offices, addressing emergency response requirements, operational demands, and capacity gaps. It involves undertaking missions and temporary assignments globally to support FAO operations as needed. The role includes providing on-the-job guidance and capacity building to local procurement personnel, ensuring effective handover arrangements. Responsibilities extend to recommending and supporting strategic sourcing solutions, reviewing and advising on urgent procurement requests, and negotiating procurement components with donors. The incumbent will work closely with Country Offices to develop compliant procurement proposals, determine optimal strategies for timely assistance delivery, and review/authorize purchase orders within delegated limits. Additionally, the role involves researching potential suppliers, assessing their suitability, and reviewing recommendations concerning procurement disputes or claims.
Work Experience
Requires seven years of relevant procurement experience, including at least three years in a supervisory capacity, with an advanced university degree. Alternatively, nine years of experience with a first-level degree and a recognized professional procurement qualification is acceptable. Experience in public sector procurement, handling complex contractual issues, and drafting contracts is essential. Experience in identifying client needs and providing support is also required. Knowledge of procurement-related IT tools and systems is beneficial.
Skills
Demonstrated knowledge of international procurement standards and all phases of international procurement techniques for diverse goods and services is crucial. Experience in public sector procurement, including managing complex contracts and formulating recommendations, is highly valued. The ability to identify client needs and provide effective support is essential. Experience in logistics operations is desirable. Familiarity with procurement-related IT tools and systems is beneficial. Adaptability for deployment in diverse operational environments and responding to evolving priorities is key. Working knowledge of a second FAO official language, particularly French or Spanish, is a strong asset.