Procurement Assistant- Education

Organizational Context

Bangladesh, a partner of the Global Partnership for Education (GPE) since 2015, has received GPE grants to enhance its education system. UNESCO and UNICEF are grant agents for the GPE System Transformation Grant (STG), supporting the Government of Bangladesh in developing a high-performing, equitable, and gender-responsive teaching profession to improve teaching quality and student learning outcomes. The UNESCO Dhaka Office also supports national priorities aligned with SDG 4 through policy support, technical assistance, and strategic partnerships.

Job Purpose

The Procurement Assistant-Education will provide essential technical and operational procurement support to the UNESCO Dhaka Office, specifically for the GPE STG programme and other donor-funded projects. This role is crucial for ensuring the effective and timely implementation of these initiatives by managing procurement planning, solicitation processes, contract administration, vendor management, monitoring, and reporting. The incumbent will ensure strict adherence to UNESCO's rules, regulations, and procedures, as well as donor requirements, while actively promoting transparency, efficiency, and value for money in all procurement activities. The position contributes directly to strengthening the education system in Bangladesh and advancing national priorities aligned with SDG 4.

Responsibilities

Develop and update procurement plans in alignment with project schedules. Assist in identifying appropriate procurement methods according to UNESCO guidelines. Ensure timely execution of administrative and operational procurement activities for efficient program delivery. Contribute to the end-to-end procurement process, including preparing solicitation documents, tendering, bid evaluation, and negotiations. Monitor purchase orders and supplier deliveries to ensure compliance with contractual terms, timelines, and quality standards. Ensure all procurement activities adhere to UNESCO Financial Regulations and Rules, the Administrative Manual, and Procurement Procedures. Support bid evaluation processes and prepare evaluation reports. Draft contracts, purchase orders, and agreements. Prepare bidding documents, assist in developing technical specifications and Terms of Reference. Assist in solicitation processes (RFQ, ITB, RFP, LTA). Maintain and update the supplier database, identify, assess, and pre-qualify potential suppliers. Facilitate supplier registration and verify supplier documentation. Monitor contractor performance and maintain procurement records. Assist in supplier risk assessments and contribute to mitigation measures. Prepare procurement reports and maintain records for audit. Coordinate with stakeholders, vendors, and partners. Provide guidance to project staff on procurement matters and support the procurement unit. Contribute to the continuous improvement of procurement processes and systems.

Work Experience

A minimum of 3 years of relevant professional experience in procurement, contract management, contract administration, logistics, or supply chain management is necessary. Experience with UN agencies or donor-funded projects is preferred. Familiarity with PPR 2008 and detailed knowledge of project procurement, including Implementing Partner Agreements, Individual Consultants, and Contracts for Services, is beneficial.

Skills

Proficiency in internationally recognized procurement standards and all procurement stages for goods and services. Strong understanding of contract management, supplier performance monitoring, and documentation requirements. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, organizational, and prioritization skills with attention to detail. Ability to build effective working relationships with diverse stakeholders. Strong communication and drafting skills for preparing procurement documents and reports. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel). Knowledge of ERP systems like SAP is advantageous. Familiarity with results-based management and UN procurement practices is desirable.

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