Procurement Senior Officer
Organizational Context
The UNOPS Regional Office for Africa, based in Nairobi, oversees over 250 projects across 40 countries, focusing on fragile and conflict-affected areas. It drives national priorities through strategic initiatives in climate action, health, infrastructure, peace, and security. The Madagascar Project Office, established in December 2022, partners with the government to promote sustainable development in health, energy, agriculture, and infrastructure, impacting millions.
Job Purpose
The Procurement Senior Officer is responsible for developing and implementing strategic and effective procurement services that align with international best practices, UNOPS procurement rules, and risk management. This role ensures the best value for money in acquiring goods, services, and works. The officer analyzes and interprets relevant regulations, providing expert advice on complex procurement matters. A key focus is on building strategic relationships, managing demand, consolidating complex organizational structures, preparing business cases, understanding the market, and sharing knowledge to achieve cost reductions and savings. The position requires upholding the highest ethical standards and maintaining a collaborative, quality-focused, client-centered, and results-oriented approach, working closely with office management and project managers.
Responsibilities
Execute procurement activities in strict adherence to UNOPS rules, regulations, policies, and strategic frameworks, maintaining a client-focused management system with effective internal controls. Collaborate with project managers to review procurement plans and develop tailored strategies incorporating sustainability and value-for-money principles. Manage all phases of the procurement lifecycle, from strategic planning and vendor identification to solicitation, evaluation, contract finalization, and post-award management. Develop and maintain vendor databases, coordinate solicitation processes (RFQ, ITB, RFP), and participate in contract negotiations. Prepare submission dossiers for Contract and Property Committees (CPC) and ensure accurate vendor information is updated in the ERP system. Monitor contractor performance, certify completed works, and process payments. Provide procurement advice and solutions to project managers, and draft Long-Term Agreements (LTAs) and service/works contracts. Utilize e-sourcing tools and contribute to knowledge sharing by organizing training and disseminating best practices.
Work Experience
Required: Relevant experience in advising on and implementing procurement policies and procedures for complex programs and strategies within international/multinational organizations. Experience using collaboration and productivity tools (e.g., MS Office, G-Suite) and online management systems is essential. Desirable: Experience in multicultural environments, UN system organizations in developing countries, or in development/humanitarian contexts.
Skills
Contract Management, Market Analysis, Procurement, Regulations, Risk Analysis, eProcurement