Procurement Senior Officer Vacancy Type Internal candidates only
Organizational Context
The UNOPS Africa Regional Office supports over 250 projects in 40 countries, focusing on fragile and conflict-affected settings. It provides strategic leadership and operational support across various sectors, including infrastructure, health, and climate action. The Zambia office implements a World Bank-funded project focused on rural electrification through solar energy, aiming to increase energy access in public institutions.
Job Purpose
The Procurement Senior Officer is responsible for ensuring strategic and effective procurement services that align with UNOPS rules, regulations, and best practices in international public procurement. This role involves managing risks, achieving value for money, and providing expert advice on complex procurement issues. The officer will analyze procurement policies, build strategic relationships, manage demand, and contribute to cost savings through knowledge sharing and market understanding. By upholding high ethical standards, the incumbent will foster a collaborative, client-focused, and results-oriented approach to procurement activities, working closely with office leadership and project managers.
Responsibilities
The Procurement Senior Officer will execute procurement activities in compliance with UNOPS policies and strategic frameworks, maintaining a client-focused system with effective internal controls. Responsibilities include collaborating with project managers on procurement plans and strategies, supporting all phases of the procurement lifecycle from planning to contract management, and developing supplier rosters. The role involves preparing and monitoring procurement plans, validating requirements, embedding sustainability, and coordinating solicitation processes (RFQs, ITBs, RFPs). The officer will evaluate bids, participate in contract negotiations, prepare submissions for committees, manage supplier information in the ERP system, monitor contractor performance, and provide procurement advice. Additionally, drafting Long-Term Agreements and purchase orders, utilizing e-procurement tools, and contributing to knowledge sharing through training and best practice dissemination are key duties.
Work Experience
Required experience includes advising on and implementing policies and procedures for complex procurement programs within international or multinational organizations. Proficiency in using collaboration tools (e.g., MS Office, G-Suite) and web-based management systems is also necessary. Experience in multicultural environments, UN system organizations, or developing countries is desirable.
Skills
Contract Management, Market Analysis, Procurement, Regulations, Risk Management, eProcurement