Procurement Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) is the largest United Nations operation in the Middle East, established to provide assistance and protection to Palestine refugees. With over 30,000 staff members, UNRWA operates in five areas of operation, focusing on delivering essential services such as education, health care, and social services to one of the most vulnerable communities in the world. The agency is committed to helping Palestine refugees achieve their full potential in human development, despite the challenging circumstances they face. UNRWA is funded almost entirely by voluntary contributions from UN member states, regional bodies, business foundations, and individual contributions. The organization is dedicated to environmental sustainability and aims to be plastic-free by 2025, reflecting its commitment to creating a better future for the communities it serves.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Specialist plays a crucial role in the planning and execution of procurement activities within UNRWA. Reporting to the Chief of the Central Support Services Division (CSSD), the incumbent is responsible for managing procurement and contractual activities related to a diverse range of services and goods, particularly in the field of information technology and electronic equipment. This position requires a strategic approach to procurement, ensuring that all processes are conducted in accordance with UNRWA's procurement framework and relevant regulations. The Procurement Specialist will also contribute to the development of sourcing strategies for ICT services and equipment, and will be involved in negotiations with suppliers, ensuring that contracts are fair, transparent, and beneficial to the agency. The role demands a thorough understanding of emergency procurement processes, especially in high-pressure situations, to support UNRWA's humanitarian efforts effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Procurement Specialist's duties include participating in the planning process for procurement activities, developing and managing procurement plans, preparing solicitation documents, and ensuring compliance with procurement regulations. The incumbent will conduct market research to stay informed about market developments and best practices, evaluate potential supply sources, and oversee adherence to contractual agreements. Additionally, the Procurement Specialist will manage the ICT procurement team, ensuring equitable distribution of workload and meticulous filing of documents. The role also involves enhancing vendor performance management, building strong relationships with suppliers, and supporting emergency field procurement by executing rapid processes to meet urgent needs. The incumbent will work closely with field offices to develop response plans, manage logistics, and monitor supplies, ensuring effective delivery of humanitarian aid.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) in business administration, public administration, procurement, supply chain management, commerce, engineering, contract law, information and communication technology (ICT), or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level degree in one of these disciplines, combined with two additional years of relevant work experience, may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. The position requires at least five years of progressively responsible experience in procurement, contract management, and logistics, with two years of direct experience in procurement or contracting. Candidates must also have at least two continuous years of relevant international experience outside UNRWA and their country of citizenship, unless they are already serving as an international staff member in the UN Common System.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) from an accredited institution in fields such as business administration, public administration, procurement, supply chain management, commerce, engineering, contract law, or information and communication technology (ICT). A first-level degree in one of these areas, along with two additional years of relevant work experience, may be accepted as an alternative to the advanced degree. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of procurement processes and contract management within the context of UNRWA's operations.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in procurement, contract management, and logistics. Candidates must have at least two years of direct experience in procurement or contracting, as well as two continuous years of relevant international experience outside UNRWA and their country of citizenship. Experience in conducting procurement at the international level for intergovernmental organizations, governmental organizations, or large multinational organizations is desirable. Additionally, experience in procuring ICT goods and services, infrastructure projects, and providing support services in humanitarian or conflict contexts is advantageous. Familiarity with supply chain modules in ERP systems and high-volume procurement operations is also beneficial.

Languages:
For this position, proficiency in English is required, with a minimum level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Knowledge of Arabic is desirable, with a minimum level of UN Level I in all language skills. The ability to communicate effectively in both English and Arabic will enhance collaboration with diverse stakeholders and contribute to the success of procurement activities within UNRWA.

Additional Notes:
The contract for this position is for a duration of two years, with the possibility of extension. Applications must be submitted through UNRWA's online e-recruitment system, and late applications will not be accepted. UNRWA encourages applications from qualified candidates with disabilities and is committed to achieving gender parity at all staffing levels. The organization emphasizes the importance of neutrality, impartiality, and integrity in its recruitment process, and candidates must adhere to these values. UNRWA is a non-smoking work environment, and applicants are advised to follow all instructions provided in the online recruitment platform.