Procurement Officer

Organizational Context

The Department of Operational Support (DOS) provides operational advisory services across the UN Secretariat, including field missions and regional commissions. Within DOS, the Procurement Division (PD) mandates responsive, effective, and quality procurement services and business advice to UN entities, ensuring best value for money through fair and transparent processes. This Procurement Officer role sits within the Transportation & Life Support Service of the PD.

Job Purpose

The Procurement Officer is responsible for planning, developing, and managing complex global procurement projects for diverse services and commodities for UN Headquarters, peace operations, and offices away from Headquarters. This involves advising requisitioning units, managing the full procurement cycle from tender preparation to bid evaluation, and formulating strategies for complex projects. The role also includes establishing work programs for contracts, negotiating with senior suppliers, and preparing submissions for contract approvals. Market research, identifying new technologies, and overseeing contract adherence are key functions. The officer will also prepare procurement-related documents and provide guidance to junior staff, ensuring procurement aligns with regulations and achieves best value.

Responsibilities

The Procurement Officer plans, develops, and manages all procurement and contractual aspects of complex global projects for diverse services and commodities. Responsibilities include advising requisitioning units on procurement issues throughout the cycle, preparing and managing tender processes and bid evaluations, and formulating strategies for complex projects. The role involves establishing work programs for contracts, negotiating with suppliers, and preparing submissions for contract approvals. Market research, identifying new technologies and supply sources, and overseeing contract adherence, including amendments and extensions, are also key duties. The officer prepares procurement documents and provides guidance and supervision to junior staff.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of progressive experience in procurement, contract management, or logistics is required. Two consecutive years within the last five years must involve international tender exercises for complex goods and services. Experience with ERP systems (e.g., SAP), e-tendering systems (e.g., Ariba), public sector procurement, and data analysis is desirable.

Skills

Professionalism, Planning & Organizing, Client Orientation, knowledge of international procurement standards, contract law, quantitative methods, market analysis, negotiation, and supplier management.

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