Procurement Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Procurement Service (CSLP) is a vital part of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), which is dedicated to achieving security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all and ensuring that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. The organization was established in 1945 and operates in over 130 countries, employing thousands of staff members who work towards improving agricultural productivity, enhancing food security, and promoting sustainable development. The Procurement Service plays a crucial role in supporting the organization's mission by ensuring that procurement processes are efficient, transparent, and adhere to best practices.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Officer is responsible for executing procurement activities related to the preparation of tender documents, drafting and finalizing contracts or Purchase Orders (POs) for goods, works, and services specifically for FAO's Decentralized Offices. This role involves ensuring compliance with FAO's established policies and procedures while reflecting best practices for public procurement. The Procurement Officer will work closely with requisitioning units, providing support and guidance throughout the procurement cycle, and ensuring that objectives are met under tight deadlines. The position requires a strong focus on quality assurance for Letters of Agreement (LoAs) and adherence to FAO rules and regulations. The Procurement Officer will also contribute to the development of training materials and promote best practices within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Procurement Officer will be tasked with planning, developing, and supporting all procurement and contractual aspects of significant complexity. Key responsibilities include advising requisitioning units on procurement issues, preparing solicitation processes, drafting tendering documents, and identifying sourcing strategies. The officer will also participate in site inspections, bidder's conferences, and contract negotiations as necessary. Conducting market research to stay updated on market developments and analyzing statistical data related to commodities is also a critical duty. The officer will ensure compliance with corporate initiatives aimed at reducing emissions and increasing efficiency, while also participating in the development of training materials and providing guidance to junior staff. Additional responsibilities include preparing monitoring reports, reviewing data, and making recommendations based on findings.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in law, business/public administration, finance, economics, commerce, marketing, or a related field, along with five years of relevant experience in procurement activities, including at least two years in public procurement. Alternatively, a first-level degree in the same fields with seven years of experience, including two in public procurement, is acceptable, along with a professional qualification from an internationally recognized body such as CIPS3, CIPS4, MCIPS, or FCIPS. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of procurement standards and practices, particularly in the public sector.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as law, business/public administration, finance, economics, commerce, or marketing. A first-level degree in these areas is also acceptable if accompanied by sufficient work experience. Professional qualifications from recognized bodies in procurement are highly valued and may enhance a candidate's eligibility.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant experience in procurement-related activities, with at least two years specifically in public procurement. Alternatively, candidates with a first-level degree must have seven years of experience, including two years in public procurement. Experience in multiple locations or areas of work, particularly in field positions, is advantageous. The role requires familiarity with complex contractual issues and the ability to draft and revise contracts effectively.

Languages:
A working knowledge (proficiency - level C) of English is mandatory, along with intermediate knowledge (intermediate proficiency - level B) of another official FAO language, which may include Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish. Proficiency in additional languages can be beneficial but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The position is available in multiple locations, indicating a flexible work environment that may include various duty stations within FAO's Decentralized Offices. The role is likely to be full-time, and candidates may be assessed based on their ability to work under tight deadlines and manage complex procurement processes. The organization values diversity and encourages applications from individuals with varied backgrounds and experiences.