Asociado/a de Compras

Organizational Context

The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world's largest humanitarian organization, dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and building pathways to peace and prosperity through food assistance. WFP operates in diverse and challenging environments, striving to reach millions of people affected by conflict, disasters, and climate change. The organization values diversity, inclusion, and the professional development of its staff.

Job Purpose

The Procurement Associate (SC 06) plays a crucial role in supporting the efficient and effective delivery of procurement services. This position involves coordinating operational activities, providing administrative support, and conducting research to ensure the timely acquisition of goods and services at the best possible cost for WFP. The role requires initiative and sound judgment to independently address daily challenges and unforeseen issues, while adhering to standard processes. Key responsibilities include identifying and recommending potential suppliers, compiling data for supplier selection, processing purchase requests, and contributing to negotiations. The associate will also prepare purchase orders and contracts, resolve delivery issues, and generate reports to inform procurement decisions. Maintaining accurate databases and fostering relationships with internal stakeholders are essential for harmonizing procurement activities with broader program goals and ensuring consistent support for food assistance needs.

Responsibilities

The primary responsibilities involve providing operational coordination and administrative services to support procurement projects and activities. This includes applying standard processes to ensure the effective acquisition of goods and services. Key tasks involve identifying and recommending potential suppliers, compiling data to justify selection, and reviewing, prioritizing, and processing purchase requests to secure appropriate items at the lowest cost for the World Food Programme (WFP). The role also contributes to negotiating terms and conditions with suppliers, preparing purchase orders and contracts for approval, and resolving issues related to delivered goods with initiative and precision. Furthermore, responsibilities extend to analyzing data for informed decision-making by Procurement Officers, maintaining accurate and accessible databases, and fostering relationships with internal stakeholders to align procurement with broader program goals. This includes supervising support staff, providing guidance, and ensuring adherence to standards and deadlines. A crucial aspect is applying emergency preparedness practices to facilitate rapid deployment of essential resources during crises.

Work Experience

Demonstrated familiarity with local procurement of products, goods, and services, including cash or in-kind donations. Experience in sourcing suppliers and coordinating with retailers, wholesalers, and merchants is also desired. Knowledge of procurement processes and their links to other operations, such as logistics, is beneficial.

Skills

Coordination, Administrative Support, Research, Vendor Sourcing, Procurement Processes, Negotiation, Data Analysis, Reporting, Database Management, Interpersonal Skills, Supervision, Emergency Preparedness

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