National Procurement and Materials Management Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan (PCUz) is an integral part of the Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), which was established to promote peace, security, and stability in the region. The PCUz is dedicated to assisting the Host Country in various areas, including combating terrorism, violent extremism, and drug trafficking, while also supporting socio-economic development and civil society initiatives. The organization operates in multiple countries and employs a diverse workforce committed to upholding the principles of the OSCE. The PCUz works collaboratively with local authorities and stakeholders to implement programs that align with the OSCE's mission and objectives, ensuring a comprehensive approach to security and development.

Job Overview:
The National Procurement and Materials Management Officer plays a crucial role in the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan by overseeing procurement, materials management, building maintenance, and transport support. This position is essential for ensuring that all procurement activities are conducted in compliance with the Common Regulatory Management System (CRMS) and OSCE policies. The officer will be responsible for managing complex tenders, conducting market research, and coordinating the work of procurement staff. The successful candidate will also be involved in identifying major procurement needs and organizing acquisitions to support the office's operations effectively. This role requires a high level of integrity and the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders to achieve the organization's goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The National Procurement and Materials Management Officer will be tasked with a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Managing all procurement activities related to the acquisition of goods, works, and services for the OSCE Project Co-ordinator in Uzbekistan, ensuring compliance with OSCE policies.
• Initiating and conducting tendering processes for Local Window Contracts (LWCs) and other purchases, adhering to OSCE tender procedures.
• Providing support in preparing Terms of Reference for acquisitions, performing evaluations of bids, and preparing bid evaluation reports.
• Presenting evaluation summaries and Statements of Award for approval, and preparing award recommendations for the Fund Management and Monitoring Committee (FMMC).
• Negotiating purchase terms with suppliers and advising Program Managers and the Chief of Fund Administration (CFA) on procurement strategies.
• Conducting market research, maintaining a supplier database, and ensuring compliance with OSCE requirements.
• Raising purchase requisitions, reviewing them against program budgets, and creating purchase orders in Oracle.
• Maintaining contracts with suppliers, monitoring performance, and ensuring compliance with contractual obligations.
• Advising on material management policies, verifying compliance with CRMS, and managing asset requisition and disposal plans. 1
• Coordinating logistical support, managing vehicle fleet maintenance, and supervising drivers and cleaning staff. 1
• Performing other related duties as assigned, including acting as Alternate CFA during absences.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in business administration, commerce, supply chain management, economics, law, or a related field, supplemented by additional training in Procurement, Supply, or Logistics. A minimum of two years of professional-level experience in procurement or contracts administration, material/asset management, preferably in an international organization, is required. Familiarity with local procurement practices and the ability to negotiate with vendors is essential. Candidates should also have knowledge of contract management, asset lifecycle management, and inventory control procedures. High integrity and the ability to work with diverse teams are crucial for this role.

Educational Background:
The position requires a first-level university degree, which can be in business administration, commerce, supply chain management, economics, law, or a related field. Additional training in Procurement, Supply, or Logistics is highly desirable, as it enhances the candidate's ability to perform effectively in this role.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least two years of professional experience in procurement or contracts administration, material/asset management, preferably within an international organization. Experience in negotiating with local vendors and familiarity with local procurement practices will be advantageous. Candidates should also have practical experience in using Business Enterprise Applications such as Oracle or SAP, as well as proficiency in Microsoft Office and project/task management software.

Languages:
Excellent written and oral communication skills in English are mandatory, along with proficiency in local languages. This bilingual capability is essential for effective communication with local stakeholders and suppliers, ensuring smooth procurement processes and collaboration.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time contracted role under a local contract with a fixed-term schedule. The monthly remuneration is USD 2152.00, subject to social security deductions, and appointments are typically made at Step 1 of the OSCE salary scale. In exceptional cases, candidates with relevant experience may be considered for a higher step. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization does not reimburse expenses related to interviews or relocation, and appointments are subject to medical clearance. The mandatory retirement age for contracted positions is 65 years, and candidates should be aware that the OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process.