Procurement Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global development network established in 1965, with a mission to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through sustainable development. UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working with governments and communities to address the most pressing challenges. The organization focuses on various areas including democratic governance, peacebuilding, climate change, and disaster resilience, and has a workforce of over 17,000 employees worldwide. UNDP is committed to promoting gender equality and empowering women, ensuring that its initiatives are inclusive and equitable.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Officer position is critical in supporting UNDP's Mine Action project in Ukraine, which aims to address the urgent needs arising from the ongoing conflict. The officer will be responsible for overseeing procurement processes, ensuring compliance with UNDP rules and regulations, and facilitating the efficient delivery of procurement services. This role requires a strong commitment to transparency and efficiency, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders, including project teams, UNDP Country Office staff, and external suppliers. The Procurement Officer will play a key role in promoting a gender-responsive approach within procurement activities, ensuring that procurement strategies align with the broader goals of sustainable development and humanitarian response.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Procurement Officer will be tasked with several key responsibilities, including: 1) Ensuring compliance with UNDP procurement policies and strategies, promoting a client-oriented procurement management system; 2) Coordinating procurement processes, including the preparation of procurement plans, maintenance of procurement tracking tools, and organization of procurement processes such as RFQs, ITBs, and RFPs; 3) Preparing purchase orders and contracts in the corporate management system, ensuring timely corrective actions on procurement issues; 4) Conducting market research and implementing sourcing strategies that incorporate gender considerations; 5) Facilitating knowledge sharing and capacity building among project staff regarding procurement policies; 6) Maintaining accurate records of procurement activities and ensuring proper documentation; 7) Supporting the implementation of internal control systems to enhance procurement efficiency; 8) Participating in procurement-related trainings and contributing to the continuous improvement of procurement practices within the organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's Degree or equivalent) in Procurement, Logistics, Management, Economics, Law, Business Administration, Public Administration, Engineering, or related fields. A first-line university degree (Bachelor’s Degree) combined with two years of qualifying experience will also be considered. Additionally, candidates with CIPS level 3 certification will have a distinct advantage, and those without it are expected to obtain it within one year of recruitment. Proficiency in using office software packages and automated procurement systems is essential, along with experience in public sector procurement management.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include an advanced university degree (Master's Degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as Procurement, Logistics, Management, Economics, Law, Business Administration, Public Administration, or Engineering. A Bachelor's Degree in these areas, combined with additional relevant experience, will also be acceptable. Candidates with CIPS certification at any level will be given preference, particularly those holding level 3 certification at the time of application.

Experience:
The level of experience required varies based on educational qualifications. Applicants with a Master's degree are not required to have prior professional experience, while those with a Bachelor's degree must have a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience in public sector procurement management at either the national or international level. Experience working with UN agencies or international organizations in procurement is highly desirable, as is familiarity with UN procurement systems and public procurement principles.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Ukrainian is mandatory for this position, as effective communication in both languages is essential for coordinating procurement activities and engaging with various stakeholders. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Kyiv, Ukraine, and is part of a project aimed at addressing the urgent needs arising from the ongoing conflict in the country. The role is full-time and may involve collaboration with international partners and stakeholders. UNDP is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and encourages applications from diverse backgrounds. The organization does not tolerate harassment or discrimination and ensures that all selected candidates adhere to high ethical standards. UNDP reserves the right to select multiple candidates from this vacancy announcement and may retain applications for similar positions in the future.