Supply and Logistics Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development to its staff. UNICEF is known for its inclusive culture and attractive compensation and benefits package, aiming to build careers while serving children and communities worldwide.

Job Overview:
The Supply and Logistics Assistant plays a crucial role in ensuring the uninterrupted supply of affordable and quality supplies and services in compliance with UNICEF's policies and ethical standards. Reporting to the Supply and Logistics Officer, the assistant is responsible for various supply chain functions, including procurement, logistics, warehousing, and inventory management. The position requires collaboration with program sections to develop procurement strategies, manage contracts, and ensure timely delivery of supplies. The assistant will also conduct market research, support product innovation, and maintain effective vendor management practices. This role is vital for supporting UNICEF's programs and ensuring that supplies reach beneficiaries efficiently and effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Supply and Logistics Assistant include:

• Assisting in the formulation of the annual Supply Plan and conducting data analysis for category management.
• Supporting market research and procurement strategies, including preparing documentation for Long Term Arrangements (LTAs) and processing Requests for Quotations (RFQs), Invitations to Bid (ITBs), and Requests for Proposals (RFPs).
• Liaising with suppliers and stakeholders to ensure timely procurement processes and delivery schedules.
• Providing input on logistics components, including customs clearance and transport options, and monitoring offshore procurement progress.
• Assessing warehousing capacity and implementing inventory management processes, including preparing stock reports and conducting physical counts.
• Supporting the contracting of logistics services and maintaining documentation for logistics operations.
• Collaborating with implementing partners and UN organizations to enhance procurement and logistics arrangements.
• Contributing to knowledge exchange and training for newcomers in the supply chain team.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a minimum of secondary education, preferably supplemented by technical or university courses related to supply chain management, business administration, or contract/commercial law. A minimum of 5 years of relevant administrative experience in supply chain management or a commercial context is required. Understanding of development and humanitarian work is advantageous, and experience with UN operations is considered an asset. Proficiency in ERP systems is also beneficial.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have completed secondary education, with additional technical or university courses in relevant fields such as supply chain management, business administration, or contract/commercial law being preferred. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of supply chain operations and logistics management.

Experience:
The role requires at least 5 years of relevant administrative experience in supply chain management or a commercial context. Candidates with experience in development and humanitarian work will have an advantage, and prior experience with UN organizations is considered a valuable asset. Familiarity with ERP systems is also a significant advantage for this position.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNICEF. Knowledge of the Kyrgyz language is considered an asset, as it may facilitate better communication with local suppliers and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a temporary assignment, and candidates should be aware that UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct incompatible with the aims and objectives of the organization. The recruitment process includes rigorous background checks, and selected candidates must adhere to UNICEF's standards and principles. The organization promotes an inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, nationality, or background. UNICEF provides reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process for candidates with disabilities.