Procurement Officer (Head, West and Central Africa Procurement Hub)
Organizational Context
This position is based in the UNODC Regional Office for West and Central Africa (ROSEN) in Dakar, Senegal. As Head of the Procurement Hub, the role reports to the Chief of Procurement in Vienna and the ROSEN Representative, providing technical oversight for procurement functions in Nigeria as well. The role operates within the ROSEN Operations Team, coordinating closely with the Operations Officer.
Job Purpose
The Procurement Officer serves as a senior expert managing complex procurement activities for diverse supplies and services, including IT, medical, security equipment, and construction projects. This role involves planning, developing, and executing procurement strategies in compliance with UN regulations, coordinating functions between regional offices, and providing technical advice. The incumbent will prepare and negotiate contracts, resolve disputes, and contribute to developing regional procurement standards and innovative solutions. A key aspect is leading the implementation and adoption of UNODC's enterprise procurement tools to enhance efficiency and compliance, while also analyzing data for informed decision-making and reporting.
Responsibilities
Lead and manage all procurement and contractual aspects for complex projects involving diverse goods and services, including IT, medical supplies, security equipment, and construction. Oversee procurement activities in line with UN Financial Regulations and Rules, coordinating with other UN entities and ensuring compliance. Manage procurement functions between ROSEN and CONGA, harmonizing delegation of authority and workload distribution. Provide technical advice and quality assurance throughout the procurement cycle, analyzing requests and specifications. Develop and negotiate complex contracts, establish long-term agreements, and manage tender processes. Formulate strategies to resolve procurement issues, particularly in construction, ensuring compliance with local laws. Contribute to developing regional procurement guidance, procedures, and standards. Conduct market research, evaluate supplier capacity, and manage negotiations and dispute resolution. Prepare and approve procurement documents, and deliver procurement-related training. Manage reporting, auditing, and implementation of UNODC's enterprise procurement tools, analyzing data for insights and efficiency improvements. Oversee Low Value Acquisitions, aiming for consolidation and increased use of Long-Term Agreements. Liaise with project teams, conduct field missions, supervise staff, and represent UNODC in relevant working groups.
Work Experience
A minimum of seven years of progressive professional experience in procurement and contract management is required. Experience using Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and managing a team is mandatory. Desirable experience includes working with UN Financial Regulations and Rules, SAP (Umoja), field procurement, developing training, and procuring architectural/construction services.
Skills
Procurement and contract management expertise, knowledge of international procurement standards and techniques, contract law, quantitative analysis, supplier capacity assessment, market trend analysis, negotiation skills, problem-solving, policy development, data analysis and interpretation, strategic planning, organizational skills, accountability, performance management, team leadership, training delivery, proficiency in English and French.