Associate Procurement Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is a global organization dedicated to protecting and assisting forcibly displaced populations. Established in 1950, UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff members worldwide. The organization focuses on delivering life-saving aid, including Core Relief Items (CRIs) such as blankets, tents, and kitchen sets, to support over 120 million people affected by conflict, persecution, and natural disasters. UNHCR's mission is to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another country, and it strives to promote durable solutions for refugees and displaced persons.

Job Overview:
The Associate Procurement Officer will play a crucial role in managing the procurement of Core Relief Items (CRIs) for UNHCR's emergency and protracted operations. This position requires a strategic approach to procurement management, ensuring that high-quality supplies are available in a timely manner while optimizing value for money and mitigating supply risks. The incumbent will be responsible for developing and executing an annual procurement plan, managing tenders, negotiating contracts, and monitoring supplier performance. The role also involves conducting market surveys, assessing potential vendors, and ensuring compliance with UNHCR's procurement policies and sustainability goals. The Associate Procurement Officer will work within UNHCR's Supply Chain framework, adhering to humanitarian principles and UN financial rules, while fostering effective relationships with suppliers and partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Associate Procurement Officer include:

• Developing and executing an annual CRI procurement plan.
• Managing tenders for CRIs, sourcing from selected suppliers to secure best value for money.
• Monitoring supplier delivery against active CRI contracts.
• Producing reports and risk assessments, highlighting quantitative impacts like USD value procured.
• Supporting the procurement process to ensure timely, cost-effective delivery of commodities and services.
• Conducting market surveys and identifying potential vendors.
• Ensuring high-quality standards for goods and services procured by UNHCR.
• Preparing tendering documents and ensuring compliance with UN/UNHCR Financial Rules and Procedures.
• Analyzing bids and coordinating the evaluation process. 1
• Negotiating with suppliers and developing complex contracts. 1
• Building constructive relations with UN agencies, partners, and government authorities. 1
• Managing vendor databases and ensuring they are up to date. 1
• Conducting periodic contract performance reviews and providing feedback. 1
• Collecting accurate records on supply activities and providing timely reports. 1
• Liaising with requesting units to provide procurement advice and clarify specifications. 1
• Monitoring compliance with UNHCR's global policies and standards. 1
• Working on projects to improve supply performance and managing risks.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Associate Procurement Officer position include:

• A relevant undergraduate degree with 3 years of experience; a graduate degree with 2 years of experience; or a doctorate with 1 year of experience.
• Proficient knowledge in effective procurement of goods and services, preferably within the UN context.
• Experience in contract negotiations and handling contract issues in accordance with UN policies.
• Ability to provide technical guidance and manage multiple tasks under tight deadlines.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills, with a good understanding of International Commercial Terms (INCOTERMS) and international transport arrangements.
• Database management skills and experience with ERP systems, ideally UNHCR’s MSRP Supply Chain Module.
• Knowledge of UN and UNHCR Financial Regulations and Rules relating to procurement.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an undergraduate degree in fields such as Procurement, Supply, Logistics, Business Administration, Law, or other relevant fields. Advanced degrees may substitute for experience, with a graduate degree requiring 2 years of relevant experience and a doctorate requiring 1 year of relevant experience.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience with an undergraduate degree, 2 years with a graduate degree, or 1 year with a doctorate. Experience should include proficient knowledge in procurement processes, contract negotiations, and compliance with UN policies and standards. Candidates should also demonstrate the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently and effectively.

Languages:
Knowledge of English is mandatory, and proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station (Hungarian) is also required. Additional languages are considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position with a commitment of 40 working hours per week. The contract duration is from March 1, 2026, to August 31, 202

• The position is not remote and is based in Budapest, Hungary. Shortlisted candidates may be required to complete a written test, and only those shortlisted will be notified. UNHCR does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. All UNHCR staff members are expected to contribute to a safe and respectful working environment, free from harassment and discrimination.