Senior Contracts Associate, G-7, Temporary Position, 364 days, Supply Division, outposted to Budapest, Hungary #00134406 (Open to EU Citizens or Valid Hungarian Work Permit Holders)
Organizational Context
UNICEF works in over 190 countries and territories to save children’s lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The Service Contracting Centre (SCC) enhances efficiency, strengthens compliance, and provides specialized expertise in the procurement of services, supporting diverse categories for various UNICEF divisions.
Job Purpose
Under the supervision of the Contracts Specialist, the Senior Contracts Associate provides high-level transactional, procedural, and administrative support for service contracting activities. This role ensures timely and efficient output compliant with UNICEF rules and regulations. The associate is expected to independently research, adapt, and evaluate irregular cases, recommending process improvements. The position involves supporting complex cases and client requests, requiring the evaluation of difficult situations and adaptation of procedures. This is a senior GS level role demanding advanced service contracting knowledge acquired through training and experience, contributing significantly to programme results by strengthening supply chain systems and ensuring best value for money.
Responsibilities
Provides input and advice on the annual supply plan by coordinating with UNICEF Global Programme Divisions, Centers of Excellence, and HQ Divisions. Conducts data review and analysis for category management and procurement strategy development, collaborating with other UN agencies. Develops procurement management strategies and best practices to strengthen supply chain systems, contributing to programme results. Conducts market research to advise on best approaches for value for money and sustainable procurement. Supports innovation and market shaping initiatives for service categories aligned with strategic plan targets, including community engagement, social and behavior change, business engagement, humanitarian programming, and scaling innovative solutions. Liaises with client divisions on planning procurement and contracting, supporting the development of specifications, terms of reference, and contracting strategies. Identifies opportunities to strengthen supply chain sustainability and supports divisions through the requisitioning stage. Ensures the establishment of Long-Term Arrangements (LTAs) and processes specific procurement requisitions. Reviews and provides input on Terms of References for service contracting and technical evaluations to ensure fair assessment of suppliers. Prepares and processes RFQs, ITBs, and RFPs, coordinating preliminary assessments and conducting technical and financial analysis of offers to ensure timely, transparent, and fair procurement processes that promote competition and achieve value.
Work Experience
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience in procurement, contract management, or a related field. Experience in service contracting is highly desirable. Experience with UN or UNICEF procurement procedures is an asset.
Skills
Service Contracting, Procurement Procedures, Contract Management, Market Research, Data Analysis, Supply Chain Management, UNICEF Rules and Regulations, Communication, Interpersonal Skills, Problem-Solving, Attention to Detail, Negotiation