Procurement Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the largest agency of the United Nations, established with the mission to eradicate poverty through sustainable and inclusive human development. UNDP has been operational in Nigeria since the country gained independence in 1960, providing essential capacity building and policy development support to the Federal Government of Nigeria. The organization focuses on key areas such as Governance & Peace Building, Inclusive Growth, and Sustainable Development. UNDP's overarching goal is to enhance the quality of life for the Nigerian populace, particularly the most disadvantaged and vulnerable groups, ensuring a future characterized by equality, dignity, and opportunity for all. The agency collaborates with various stakeholders, including the federal government, development partners, UN agencies, civil society, and local communities, to identify and implement local solutions that address both global and national development challenges. UNDP's interventions are designed to align with the medium to long-term goals outlined in Nigeria's National and Subnational development plans, as well as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The Procurement Associate plays a crucial role within the UNDP, providing procurement services that ensure high quality and accuracy in all procurement activities. This position operates under the guidance of the Operations Manager and the direct supervision of the Procurement Analyst. The Procurement Associate is expected to adopt a client-focused, quality-oriented approach, working closely with operations, program, and project staff within the Country Office and UNDP Headquarters. The role involves supporting compliance with UN/UNDP procurement rules and regulations, assisting in the drafting of internal Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and contributing to the overall efficiency of procurement processes. The Procurement Associate will be involved in various procurement activities, including the preparation of procurement plans, organization of procurement processes, and maintenance of procurement filing systems. This position is integral to ensuring that procurement activities align with UNDP's strategic objectives and operational standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Procurement Associate will undertake a variety of tasks under the direct supervision of the Procurement Analyst or their designated representative. Key responsibilities include:

• Assisting in the implementation of operational strategies, ensuring compliance with UN/UNDP rules and regulations.
• Providing inputs to procurement process mapping and assisting in drafting internal Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Supporting procurement processes for the Country Office, projects, and other agencies, including preparation of procurement plans and organization of procurement processes (e.g., RFQs, ITBs, RFPs).
• Assisting in the preparation of purchase orders and contracts, vendor creation in Atlas, and maintaining the procurement filing system.
• Supporting the internal control system by ensuring purchase orders are properly prepared and dispatched, and assisting with follow-up on any errors or issues.
• Assisting in the preparation of cost-recovery information for procurement services provided to other agencies.
• Contributing to the implementation of sourcing strategies by updating supplier rosters and supporting reviews of supplier performance.
• Assisting with the annual training of suppliers on UNDP processes and procedures.
• Supporting the control of Country Office assets by reviewing compliance of purchase orders with asset records. 1
• Providing logistical support by arranging conference facilities and processing travel-related documentation. 1
• Participating in training for operations and project staff on procurement and contributing to knowledge networks and communities of practice. 1
• Supporting basic research on best practices and proposing improvements in work processes.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Procurement Associate position should possess a strong understanding of procurement processes and regulations, particularly within the context of UNDP. Required qualifications include:

• Demonstrated knowledge of procurement principles and practices.
• Familiarity with UN/UNDP procurement rules and regulations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and maintain effective working relationships with colleagues and stakeholders.
• Proficiency in using procurement software and tools, as well as standard office software applications.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to effectively convey information and facilitate discussions.

Educational Background:
Candidates applying for the Procurement Associate position should have a relevant educational background, typically including:

• A minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Procurement, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• Additional certifications in procurement or supply chain management (e.g., CIPS, CPSM) are advantageous and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a certain level of experience, which typically includes:

• A minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience in procurement, supply chain management, or a related field.
• Experience working in an international organization or within the UN system is highly desirable.
• Proven track record of successfully managing procurement processes and ensuring compliance with established policies and procedures.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the working language of UNDP. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly those relevant to the local context in Nigeria, is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's competitiveness.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an international UN Volunteer assignment, which means that the selected candidate will be responsible for arranging their own housing and living essentials within security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security-cleared areas. The UN Volunteer will receive a Settling-In-Grant if the duty station is not within commuting distance from their place of recruitment. A monthly Volunteer Living Allowance will be provided to cover housing, utilities, and normal living expenses. The position also includes life, health, and permanent disability insurance, with health coverage extended to up to three dependents. Additionally, a final repatriation allowance will be provided upon satisfactory service, and in non-family duty stations classified as hardship categories D or E, a Well-Being Differential (WBD) will be provided monthly.