Procurement Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization is committed to achieving three transformative results: ending preventable maternal deaths, ending unmet needs for family planning, and ending gender-based violence and harmful practices. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 emphasizes the importance of addressing the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on women's and girls' access to health services and rights, while also aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Philippines' long-term development goals.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Associate plays a crucial role in ensuring the effective and efficient use of resources within the UNFPA Country Office in the Philippines. This position involves assisting staff in defining and costing their procurement needs, managing procurement policies and practices, and building capacity among program staff and external partners. The Procurement Associate is expected to deliver high-quality procurement services, ensuring compliance with UNFPA rules and guidelines while maintaining a client-oriented approach. This role also includes representing UNFPA in various working groups and committees related to procurement, thereby contributing to the overall success of the Country Programme.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Procurement Associate is responsible for a wide range of duties including: preparing a consolidated Procurement Plan based on Annual Work Plans, overseeing procurement processes, providing advice on procurement planning and logistics management, reviewing procurement requests, ensuring timely and cost-effective procurement of goods and services, maintaining up-to-date inventory records, monitoring procurement timelines, and ensuring compliance with UNFPA policies. Additionally, the role involves capacity building for implementing partners, administrative support for procurement processes, and providing technical advice on procurement and supply chain management. The Procurement Associate will also be involved in training staff and partners on procurement best practices and maintaining effective communication with stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 7 years of relevant work experience in international public procurement or contracts and supplier management. A university degree in Business Administration, International Development Studies, Economics, Auditing, Engineering, or Logistics is desirable. Certification in CIPS or similar procurement qualifications is required. Experience with UN procurement regulations and procedures is advantageous, as is a proven track record in managing complex bid processes and category management. Knowledge of the global health and pharmaceutical market, particularly in relation to sexual and reproductive health, is an asset.

Educational Background:
Completion of secondary education is required, with a preference for candidates holding a bachelor's degree in relevant fields such as Business Administration, International Development Studies, Economics, Auditing, Engineering, or Logistics. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of procurement and supply chain management within the context of UNFPA's operations.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of related work experience, particularly in international public procurement or contracts and supplier management. Candidates with experience in UN procurement, finance, and contracting regulations will have a competitive advantage. Proven experience in managing complex procurement processes and working in a team environment is highly desirable, as is experience in overseeing logistics and supply chain units.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Filipino is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of other UN languages is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a diverse work environment.

Additional Notes:
The initial appointment is for a fixed term of one year, with the possibility of renewal based on satisfactory performance. The position offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including health insurance. UNFPA is committed to promoting gender parity and encourages applications from women and individuals from underrepresented groups. The organization does not charge any fees during the application process and emphasizes the importance of integrity and ethical standards in its recruitment practices.