Procurement Officer

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for personal and professional development. UNICEF prides itself on a culture that helps staff thrive, alongside an attractive compensation and benefits package.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Officer position at UNICEF involves providing procurement support and guidance to the IF Hub and PFP clients, ensuring value for money in procurement activities. The incumbent will be responsible for managing procurement processes for assigned goods and services, from planning to supplier performance management. This role requires collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure compliance with procurement policies and procedures, as well as the development of tender strategies for complex services and goods. The officer will also be tasked with preparing tender documents, managing bidding processes, and ensuring effective contract management.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide timely procurement support and guidance to the IF Hub and PFP clients, ensuring they are well-informed about procurement policies and procedures.
• Develop tender strategies for contracting complex services and goods, including market research and managing bidding processes.
• Prepare and issue international tenders, and manage the bidding process using UNICEF's web tendering tool.
• Prepare Contracts Review Committee submissions for orders above the CRC threshold and present cases for review and approval.
• Develop and manage contracts and Long-Term Agreements (LTAs) for procurement of goods and services, ensuring good performance from suppliers.
• Monitor contracts and LTAs, and initiate renewals proactively.
• Collaborate with the procurement team to maximize outputs and achieve unit objectives.
• Engage with PFP Procurement Unit and IF Hub partners to ensure competitive sourcing and compliance with UNICEF procurement rules.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess good analytical and negotiating skills, the ability to manage financial and material resources effectively, and the capability to work in a multicultural environment. They should also demonstrate adaptability to change, a good understanding of supply chain processes, and knowledge of UNICEF programs and public procurement principles. Familiarity with financial and legal aspects of supply chain operations is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
A first-level University Degree in fields such as Business Administration, Management, Economics, Supply Chain Management, Procurement, or Contract/Commercial Law is required for this position.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of relevant experience in procurement of services, supply, and contracting at national and/or international levels is required. Experience with UNICEF or in developing countries, particularly in emergency contexts, is considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) or a local language is an asset.

Additional Notes:
The estimated duration of the contract is 364 days. The position is based in Rome, Italy, and candidates must be prepared to undergo rigorous reference and background checks. UNICEF is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages all candidates to apply, regardless of gender, nationality, or background. The organization offers flexible working arrangements and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities.