National Procurement Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is an agency that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and improve nutrition and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security. Established in 1945, FAO has a mission to help eliminate hunger, food insecurity, and malnutrition, make agriculture, forestry, and fisheries more productive and sustainable, reduce rural poverty, and enable inclusive and efficient agricultural and food systems. The organization operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 12,000 employees. FAO's work is guided by the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which aims to end poverty and hunger in all forms by 203

• The Subregional Office for the Pacific Islands (SAP) is part of FAO's Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific (RAP) and is responsible for implementing strategies and projects that promote sustainable agrifood systems in the Pacific region, ensuring that no one is left behind in the transformation of food and agriculture.

Job Overview:
The National Procurement Specialist plays a crucial role in managing and coordinating procurement activities within the framework of the Sustainable Transformation of Domestic Agrifood Systems (STODAS) Project. This position requires a strong understanding of procurement processes, compliance with organizational policies, and the ability to maintain effective supplier relationships. The specialist will oversee the entire procurement process, from identifying potential suppliers to managing contracts, ensuring that all activities are conducted in a timely and efficient manner. The role also involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including the International Procurement Specialist, Nutrition and Food Systems Officer, and other consultants, to ensure that procurement actions align with project goals and donor requirements. The National Procurement Specialist will be expected to contribute to the overall success of the project by ensuring that procurement activities support the transformation of food systems in Fiji, Samoa, and the Solomon Islands.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Procurement Specialist will be responsible for executing specialized procurement processes, ensuring adherence to FAO regulations and procedures. Key responsibilities include reviewing procurement requests for completeness, analyzing Purchase Requisitions (PR), and performing the Buyer role in the Global Resource Management System (GRMS). The specialist will identify and recommend sources of procurement, conduct market research, and maintain an updated supplier roster. Additionally, the role involves preparing tender documents, issuing tenders, and conducting market searches. The specialist will organize bid openings, share technical offers with requisitioners, and undertake financial evaluations of offers. Implementing an internal control system for purchase orders, preparing Requests for Proposals (RFPs), and developing knowledge of FAO procurement procedures are also essential duties. The specialist will maintain proper filing systems for procurement documents, ensure timely delivery of goods and services, and perform any other duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree from an institution recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field. A minimum of five years of relevant work experience in procurement, supply chain operations, or financial management of projects is required. Full proficiency in English and Samoan is mandatory, and candidates must be nationals of Samoa. The role demands efficiency, competence, integrity, and strong negotiating skills, along with the ability to work with multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural project partners.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a related field from an accredited institution. Candidates must ensure that their qualifications are recognized by the World Higher Education Database (WHED), as FAO only considers higher educational qualifications from accredited institutions.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant work experience in procurement, supply chain operations, or financial management of projects. Experience in managing or coordinating international, regional, or national projects related to agriculture and the environment is highly desirable, as it demonstrates the candidate's ability to navigate complex procurement environments and contribute effectively to project goals.

Languages:
Full proficiency in English and Samoan is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, but the primary requirement is fluency in these two languages to ensure effective communication within the organization and with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The FAO does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or processing. Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. The position may involve full-time engagement, and candidates are encouraged to visit the FAO employment website for additional opportunities.