Acquisition Planning Assistant
Organizational Context
This position is within the Acquisition Management Unit of the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia (UNVMC) in Bogota. The role supports the mission mandate by participating in supply chain planning for various services and commodities. The Assistant reports to the Chief Acquisition Management Unit and assists in monitoring the supply chain plan and optimizing resource utilization to meet customer needs.
Job Purpose
The Acquisition Planning Assistant is responsible for supporting the mission's supply chain planning processes to ensure optimal resource utilization and meet operational requirements. This involves assisting in the preparation and validation of demand forecasts and acquisition plans, coordinating with technical units and procurement, and monitoring requisition submissions. The role also entails forecasting logistics needs, liaising with other UN entities to check stock availability, and supporting the planning and management of acquisition processes for goods and services. Additionally, the Assistant analyzes expenditure data, monitors acquisition processes, and prepares progress reports to ensure timely decision-making and minimize supply chain gaps. The position may also involve supervising junior staff.
Responsibilities
Key responsibilities include assisting in the preparation and validation of the mission's 24-month demand forecast and source plan using the Umoja Supply Chain Planning Tool, ensuring data accuracy and alignment with budget formulation and operational requirements. The role involves coordinating with technical units and procurement to update and implement the mission acquisition plan, considering priorities, funding, and lead times. The Assistant monitors requisitions, forecasts logistics requirements, and liaises with other UN entities to check stock availability before initiating new acquisitions. Support is provided for planning and managing the acquisition process, including transportation and service contract coordination. The position oversees the extraction and analysis of expenditure data, monitors acquisition processes, identifies obstacles, and assists in preparing progress reports. The Assistant also implements mission policies and procedures, maintains contract tracking systems, and may supervise junior staff.
Work Experience
A minimum of eight years of progressive experience in supply chain, logistics, or procurement is required, with at least two years at the international level. Mandatory experience includes working with Umoja or similar ERPs for scheduling, inventory control, procurement, and logistics, as well as preparing and validating 24-month demand forecasts and utilizing category management concepts. Experience supporting field operations in supply chain management is also required. Experience with data analysis tools like Power BI is desirable.
Skills
Professionalism in supply chain management, planning, procurement, and logistics; strong analytical and data analysis skills; proficiency with data visualization tools; knowledge of UN rules and regulations; ability to use initiative and good judgment; strong planning and organizing abilities; technological awareness and willingness to learn new technology.