Procurement Associate
Organizational Context
UNESCO's mission, established post-WWII, is to foster peace, sustainable development, and human rights through international collaboration. It operates across five key program areas: education, sciences, social/human sciences, culture, and communication/information. UNESCO supports initiatives ranging from literacy and technical training to preserving cultural heritage and bridging the digital divide, aiming to create inclusive knowledge societies globally.
Job Purpose
This UNV assignment supports UNESCO's project in Ukraine by assisting the Associate National Procurement Officer. The role involves preparing and reviewing procurement requests, quotations, and bids, as well as analyzing bids and contracts. The incumbent will ensure all procurement activities strictly adhere to UNESCO's rules and regulations, contributing to the efficient and compliant acquisition of goods and services necessary for project implementation. This position is crucial for maintaining operational continuity and achieving project objectives through effective procurement processes.
Responsibilities
The Procurement Associate will be responsible for preparing and updating procurement plans, conducting market research, and sourcing suppliers. This includes supporting sourcing strategies, evaluating suppliers, and maintaining vendor records. The role ensures compliance with procurement rules, procedures, and internal controls, maintaining complete procurement files and audit trails, and preparing reports. The associate will manage end-to-end procurement processes for goods, services, and works, including issuing RFQs, ITBs, and RFPs, and reviewing technical specifications and evaluation criteria. They will coordinate technical and financial evaluations, support committees, prepare award recommendations, and prepare submissions to procurement authorities. Additionally, the role involves preparing Purchase Orders and contracts, monitoring contract performance, and liaising with stakeholders to address bottlenecks. Providing procurement advice and operational support to programme teams, contributing to training, and developing knowledge-sharing materials are also key duties.
Work Experience
A minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in procurement and supply chain management is required, including planning, sourcing, contract management, and logistics. Experience within the UN system or international organizations is highly desirable. Expertise in international vendor sourcing, market analysis, and contract negotiation is essential. Proficiency in MS Office and experience with ERP systems (preferably SAP) are beneficial. CIPS Level II or higher certification is an asset.
Skills
Key competencies include accountability, adaptability, flexibility, professionalism, planning and organizing, and sound judgment/decision-making. The role requires creativity for process improvements. Specific skills include administration, logistics, procurement, commodities management, emergency preparedness, and crisis response. Fluency in Ukrainian and English is required.