Individual Consultant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on reproductive health and rights, aiming to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of approximately 4,000 employees. The organization is dedicated to achieving three transformative results by 2030: ending preventable maternal deaths, ending unmet needs for family planning, and ending gender-based violence and harmful practices. UNFPA's Supply Chain Management Unit (SCMU) was made operational in January 2022 and is self-funded, tasked with ensuring the effective delivery of life-saving reproductive health products and other program supplies.

Job Overview:
The Individual Consultant position is situated within the Logistics Management Services (LMS) Team of the UNFPA Supply Chain Management Unit (SCMU). The consultant will report to the Prepositioned Stock Team Analyst - Team Lead and will be responsible for the procurement and management of various stocks, including Interagency Reproductive Health Kits (IARH kits), condoms, dignity kits, and other essential supplies. The role requires the development and application of inventory management systems to ensure proper tracking and availability of UNFPA stocks. The consultant will play a crucial role in enhancing supply chain preparedness and ensuring timely delivery of supplies to UNFPA programs and partners, thereby contributing to the organization's mission of improving reproductive health and rights globally.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for several key areas:

• Inventory Management: Support the implementation of stock strategies to ensure efficient delivery of quality-assured supplies. This includes dynamic stock replenishments, monitoring lead times, and managing purchase orders.
• Thought Leadership and Knowledge Sharing: Contribute to an environment of knowledge retention and sharing, incorporating best practices into daily activities.
• Collaboration and Representation: Maintain effective collaboration with stakeholders within UNFPA and represent the organization in relevant meetings.
• Additional Duties: Carry out any other responsibilities as required by the Chief of SCMU. The role demands rigorous inventory control, reconciliation of stock discrepancies, and maintaining comprehensive records for audit compliance.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 6 years of progressively responsible experience in inventory management, logistics, or related fields, preferably within social mission-driven organizations. This requirement is reduced to 3 years for those with a relevant university degree. Familiarity with UN procurement and supply chain policies is advantageous, as is experience with Google tools, Oracle ERP systems, and supply chain security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security regulations. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to develop partnerships are essential, along with basic project management skills and proficiency in ERP systems.

Educational Background:
Completion of secondary education is required, with a university degree at the Bachelor level in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or related fields considered an asset. Additional certifications such as CIPS Level 2, CILT-UK Level 3, or project management qualifications (e.g., PRINCE2, PMP) are also beneficial.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in inventory management, logistics, or humanitarian response, with a preference for candidates who have worked in social mission-driven organizations. Candidates with a relevant university degree may qualify with only 3 years of experience. Experience in managing international inventory and familiarity with UN supply chain policies will be considered an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while working knowledge of other UN official languages is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and may involve international recruitment. UNFPA promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment, encouraging applications from women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, minority ethnic groups, and persons with disabilities. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. The organization emphasizes gender parity and equal opportunities in all aspects of employment.