Procurement Assistant - G6/1 level

Organizational Context

The United Nations Secretariat, specifically the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) in Addis Ababa, seeks a Procurement Assistant. This role supports requisitioning units across the entire procurement cycle, from initial request to final payment, ensuring efficient acquisition of goods and services.

Job Purpose

The Procurement Assistant's primary purpose is to provide comprehensive support and guidance to requisitioning units throughout all stages of the procurement cycle. This includes managing solicitations, overseeing the procurement process until case closure, and processing payments for delivered goods and services. The role is crucial for ensuring the efficient and compliant acquisition of necessary resources for the ECA's operations, contributing to the organization's overall mission by facilitating timely access to essential supplies and services.

Responsibilities

The Procurement Assistant will review and prioritize purchasing requests, gather necessary documentation, and assist requisitioners with scopes of work and specifications. Responsibilities include identifying potential suppliers, preparing tender documents (e.g., RFPs, RFQs), and analyzing bids to determine the best value. The role involves negotiating terms and conditions, assessing supplier capabilities, and drafting contracts in consultation with relevant departments and legal affairs. Additionally, the assistant will raise Purchase Orders, manage procurement databases, track contractual agreements, and resolve issues related to delivered goods, including discrepancies and returns.

Work Experience

At least seven years of progressively responsible experience in procurement, business administration, accounting, or IT is required. Experience with procurement-related software and database management is desirable. Familiarity with UN internal procurement policies, processes, and procedures for acquiring a wide range of supplies and services is also an asset.

Skills

Procurement process management, supplier identification and evaluation, tender document preparation, bid analysis, contract negotiation, purchase order processing, database management, issue resolution, strong English communication (written and oral).

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