Procurement Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. With over 7,000 employees in more than 150 countries, WHO works in various areas including disease prevention, health systems strengthening, and emergency response. The organization operates globally, focusing on health issues that affect populations worldwide, and aims to achieve universal health coverage and health equity.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Officer position is critical for ensuring the timely and cost-effective procurement of medical and non-medical supplies, equipment, and services necessary for the implementation of health programs in Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) countries. The role involves overseeing procurement processes, ensuring compliance with WHO standards, and managing supplier relationships. The Procurement Officer will be responsible for analyzing procurement requests, recommending procurement modalities, and ensuring that all procurement activities align with WHO policies and procedures. This position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to navigate complex procurement scenarios, particularly in emergency situations arising from epidemics or natural disasters. The officer will also be involved in identifying new technologies and products to enhance procurement efficiency and effectiveness.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Review all procurement requests and determine the most suitable procurement modality.
• Ensure oversight and internal control of procurement activities within the PSS unit.
• Monitor the preparation and distribution of invitations for bids (IFBs) and requests for quotations (RFQs) to qualified suppliers.
• Analyze offers and make recommendations for contract awards to the Contracts Committee.
• Ensure compliance with WHO standards, policies, and procedures in all procurement activities.
• Maintain and update the supplier list, conducting performance evaluations to identify non-compliant suppliers.
• Identify and evaluate new technologies and products, recommending potential supply sources.
• Formulate innovative solutions to complex procurement issues.
• Supervise procurement activities, including staff management, work assignment, and review of contractual documents. 1
• Collaborate with various stakeholders to ensure effective procurement processes.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include a first university degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Management, or a related field. An advanced degree in these areas is desirable. Candidates should possess thorough knowledge of medical supply operations and procurement services, along with strong problem-solving and analytical skills. The ability to manage and prioritize tasks in complex situations is crucial. Familiarity with WHO and/or other UN systems is considered an asset. Candidates must demonstrate effective teamwork, communication skills, and the ability to produce results while ensuring the effective use of resources.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold at least a first university degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Management, or a related field. An advanced university degree in these disciplines is preferred, as it indicates a higher level of expertise and understanding of the complexities involved in procurement and supply chain management.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of experience in procurement services and logistics is essential, particularly in an international context. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing procurement processes and working with diverse stakeholders in complex environments. Experience in emergency procurement situations is highly desirable, as it demonstrates the ability to respond effectively to urgent needs.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within WHO. Intermediate knowledge of French is desirable, as it can facilitate communication in multilingual environments. Familiarity with other WHO languages is also beneficial, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive salary starting at USD 71,335 annually, with additional benefits including a variable post adjustment based on the cost of living in Cairo, currently amounting to USD 1492 per month. Employees are entitled to 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children. The vacancy may be used to fill other similar positions at the same grade level. Candidates are encouraged to apply online through Stellis, ensuring their profiles are complete and up-to-date. The recruitment process may include a written test and/or video assessment. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization adheres to strict ethical standards and has a zero-tolerance policy towards misconduct.