Procurement Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job is located within the United Nations Support Office in Haiti (UNSOH), which was established to provide support to various entities including the Gang Suppression Force (GSF), the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH), the Haitian National Police (HNP), and the Haitian Armed Forces. UNSOH is also tasked with delivering technical assistance to the Organization of American States (OAS). The organization operates in a complex environment, focusing on security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and stability in Haiti, and aims to enhance the effectiveness of local law enforcement and military operations. The office is committed to upholding the principles of the United Nations and ensuring that its operations align with international standards and practices. UNSOH employs a diverse workforce and is dedicated to fostering an inclusive work environment that reflects the communities it serves.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Officer position is a temporary role that involves planning and managing complex procurement operations within the UNSOH. The incumbent is responsible for ensuring the efficient delivery and disposition of quality goods and services while adhering to UN procurement policies and practices. This role requires the ability to propose innovative solutions to procurement-related problems and conflicts, as well as effective interaction with all parties involved in the procurement process. The officer may also manage a Procurement Unit, depending on the size and scope of the operations. The position is critical in supporting the operational needs of the GSF and other entities, ensuring that procurement activities are conducted in a timely and cost-effective manner. The officer will report to a Procurement Officer at the P4 level or a designated officer, and will play a key role in the procurement section of the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Procurement Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including serving as a procurement and contracting expert, providing technical advice on procurement activities, analyzing and evaluating procurement requests, and developing complex contracts for non-routine and technologically advanced commodities or services. The officer will issue international tender invitations, evaluate responses, and make recommendations for contract awards. Additionally, the officer will develop tactical approaches to contracts based on market research, contribute to the development of institutional procurement policies, and maintain oversight of production patterns in exporting countries. The role also involves conducting negotiations with various stakeholders, facilitating the transition of procurement contracts, and providing guidance to junior staff. The officer must ensure compliance with UN procurement standards and effectively manage the procurement cycle from initiation to contract finalization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of internationally recognized procurement standards and techniques, as well as contract law. The ability to handle complex contract issues and apply quantitative methods to measure supplier capacity is essential. The officer should demonstrate professionalism, efficiency, and a commitment to gender perspectives in procurement activities. Strong planning and organizational skills are required, along with a client-oriented approach that prioritizes the needs of stakeholders. The officer must be capable of developing clear goals, managing priorities, and effectively communicating with clients throughout the procurement process.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business administration, public administration, commerce, engineering, law, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. This educational background ensures that candidates have the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to navigate the complexities of procurement within the UN framework.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in procurement, contract management, contract administration, logistics, or supply chain management. At least two consecutive years of experience within the last five years conducting international tender exercises for complex goods and services is required. Experience in the area of Engineering services is desirable, as is familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems such as SAP or e-tendering systems like Ariba. Additionally, experience managing multicultural teams and working within the United Nations system or comparable international organizations is advantageous.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, while French is also a working language of the United Nations Secretariat. Proficiency in Spanish is desirable, as it may enhance communication with local stakeholders and partners. Candidates should refer to the UN Language Framework for specific language skill requirements.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporary and may have specific contract duration details that will be communicated during the hiring process. The role is classified at the P-3 level, indicating a mid-level professional position within the UN structure. The position is full-time and may involve international recruitment, depending on the candidate pool. Compensation and benefits will be aligned with UN standards, and the organization is committed to providing a supportive work environment that promotes professional development and career growth.