Last Mile Assurance Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on delivering a world where 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 mission to promote reproductive health and rights, and gender equality. The organization is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) agenda, particularly in the context of the ongoing challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. 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 supplies. The organization emphasizes the importance of principled and ethical staff who embody international norms and standards, and who are committed to delivering high-impact results.

Job Overview:
The Last Mile Assurance Associate position is integral to the Country Support Team within the UNFPA Supply Chain Management Unit (SCMU). This role involves reporting directly to the Last Mile Assurance Analyst and is focused on enhancing visibility and accountability in the management of UNFPA programme supplies across the supply chain. The associate will support the Last Mile Assurance (LMA) process, which is crucial for improving programming and ensuring that supplies reach the end users effectively. The position requires a willingness to travel on short notice, as this is a core responsibility. The associate will play a key role in developing and monitoring the annual LMA work plan, facilitating training for UNFPA Country Offices and partners, and ensuring that audit recommendations are addressed. The role also involves collaboration with various stakeholders to strengthen supply chain systems and improve overall efficiency.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Last Mile Assurance Associate will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including:

• Supporting the LMA process by reviewing and proposing updates to guidelines, enhancing data collection and reporting systems.
• Developing and monitoring the annual LMA work plan and calendar, managing budgets, and ensuring the implementation of action plans.
• Identifying and managing third-party service providers to ensure quality deliverables for LMA activities.
• Creating training materials and facilitating workshops for UNFPA Country Offices and partners.
• Collaborating with Country Offices to develop and monitor remedial action plans and supply chain strengthening recommendations.
• Aggregating LMA results, maintaining dashboards, and preparing reports for stakeholders.
• Supporting UNFPA's capacity-strengthening initiatives and training supply chain professionals.
• Contributing to knowledge sharing and best practices in supply chain management.
• Assisting with resource mobilization proposals and maintaining relationships with donors and partners. 1
• Participating in relevant meetings and carrying out any other duties as required by the Chief of SCMU.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of six years of progressively responsible experience in areas such as supply management, quality assurance of medical products, and logistics information systems. This requirement is reduced to three years for candidates with a relevant first-level or advanced university degree. Candidates should have advanced knowledge of relational databases and data analysis tools, experience in developing standard operating procedures, and the ability to deliver training. Strong interpersonal skills and the capability to maintain partnerships are essential, along with professional written and spoken presentation skills. Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and knowledge of sexual and reproductive health commodities are advantageous.

Educational Background:
Completion of secondary education is required, with a university degree at the Bachelor level in fields such as Medical Science, Pharmacy, Supply Chain Management, Public Health, International Development, Logistics, Business Administration, Economics, Data Science, Accounting, or Audit considered an asset. Professional certifications in Supply Chain Management or quality management systems are also beneficial.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of six years of relevant experience in supply chain management, with a focus on quality assurance and logistics. Candidates with a relevant degree may qualify with three years of experience. Experience in data analytics, training delivery, and working within a matrix organizational structure is preferred.

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

Additional Notes:
This position offers a competitive remuneration package, including health insurance and other benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that values gender equality, diversity, and integrity, and encourages applications from underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. The organization emphasizes equal opportunities in recruitment and selection processes.