Procurement Associate [open To Internal And External Applicants]

Organizational Context

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in the Pacific, operating from Fiji, supports ten countries in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Multi-Country Office (MCO) focuses on Planet, Prosperity, and Peace, with an Operations Team providing essential support in finance, procurement, HR, and logistics. This role is within the Operations Team, contributing to the MCO's strategic objectives.

Job Purpose

The Procurement Associate, reporting to the Procurement Analyst, is responsible for executing the full spectrum of Country Office (CO) procurement services, ensuring effectiveness, transparency, and integrity. This role involves managing procurement processes for CO, NIM/DIM projects, and supporting other UN agencies. The Associate will contribute to cost-saving strategies, implement procurement policies, and ensure compliance with UN/UNDP regulations. The position also supports the development and implementation of sourcing strategies, the use of e-procurement tools, and facilitates knowledge sharing on procurement best practices within the office.

Responsibilities

Administer and implement procurement strategies and policies, ensuring full compliance with UN/UNDP rules and regulations. Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for procurement and logistics, and control workflows. Propose and implement cost-saving measures in consultation with management. Provide research and analysis for contract strategies, tendering, supplier selection, and e-procurement. Manage procurement processes for CO, NIM/DIM projects, and other agencies, including preparing procurement plans and facilitating RFQs, ITBs, and RFPs. Prepare purchase orders and contracts, review project procurements, and ensure timely corrective actions for any issues. Develop and update supplier rosters, implement supplier selection and evaluation, and promote the use of UNDP's electronic procurement tools. Contribute to effective administrative and financial control by maintaining records, verifying data, and ensuring data integrity. Facilitate knowledge building and sharing by organizing training and synthesizing lessons learned and best practices.

Work Experience

Minimum of 7 years of progressive procurement and administrative experience at the national or international level with a secondary education, or a minimum of 4 years with a bachelor's degree. Experience with computer software (MS Word, Excel) and web-based management systems is required. Experience with procurement processes is essential. Knowledge of UN/UNDP procurement rules and procedures is an asset.

Skills

Core Competencies: Achieve Results, Think Innovatively, Learn Continuously, Adapt with Agility, Act with Determination, Engage and Partner, Enable Diversity and Inclusion. Technical Competencies: Contract Management, Financial Analysis, Procure-to-Pay processes, Procurement Management, Supplier/Relationship Management, Stakeholder Management, Knowledge Generation.

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