Sustainable Procurement Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) is an operational arm of the United Nations, established to support the successful implementation of peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development projects globally. UNOPS aims to ensure that people can live fulfilling lives through sustainable, resilient, and inclusive infrastructure, as well as the efficient and transparent use of public resources in procurement and project management. Since its inception, UNOPS has been a central resource for the United Nations, providing sustainable project management, procurement, and infrastructure services to various governments, donors, and UN organizations. Since 2006, UNOPS has been active in North Africa, implementing initiatives across multiple sectors to assist governments in executing their programs effectively, thereby maximizing positive impacts on society and the economy. The organization focuses on four strategic areas: sustainable procurement, complex project management, sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and technical assistance.

Job Overview:
The Sustainable Procurement Specialist will play a crucial role in supporting the Partnerships unit at UNOPS by developing new procurement projects that incorporate sustainable procurement practices. This position is essential for enhancing the capacity of the Partnerships unit to create compelling project proposals that prioritize sustainability. The specialist will be responsible for analyzing requirements, synthesizing proposals for cost-saving strategies, and contributing to the implementation of strategic procurement initiatives. This includes sourcing strategies, supplier selection, quality management, and performance measurement. The role also involves preparing procurement plans, managing supplier rosters, and sharing knowledge on sustainable procurement practices. The specialist will work closely with project managers and other teams to ensure that sustainability is integrated into all procurement activities, thereby supporting UNOPS' contributions to the 2030 Agenda and enhancing the impact of sustainable development initiatives within the UN system.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Sustainable Procurement Specialist will undertake a variety of tasks, including:

• Conducting analyses of procurement requirements and synthesizing proposals for cost-saving strategies for new projects.
• Contributing to the implementation of strategic procurement processes, including sourcing strategies, supplier selection, quality management, and performance measurement.
• Preparing and monitoring procurement plans for newly developed projects in collaboration with the Partnerships Unit and Project Managers.
• Developing and managing rosters of qualified suppliers, including mechanisms for supplier selection, evaluation, and performance measurement.
• Documenting lessons learned and best practices in procurement to enhance future projects.
• Contributing to knowledge networks and communities of practice within the organization.
• Mainstreaming sustainable procurement practices through knowledge sharing and peer learning.
• Supporting cross-country engagement and promoting knowledge management initiatives.
• Providing technical advice based on the latest developments in sustainable procurement. 1
• Organizing and facilitating peer learning events and knowledge exchange platforms. 1
• Preparing high-quality technical reports, case studies, and procurement documents as required. 1
• Assisting in the identification of funding and partnership opportunities to enhance sustainable procurement practices. 1
• Conducting foresight analyses to identify emerging trends and challenges in sustainable development and procurement. 1
• Preparing briefing materials for meetings and discussions related to sustainable procurement activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of sustainable procurement practices and project management principles. They should demonstrate adaptability, flexibility, and a commitment to continuous learning. Excellent communication skills, creativity, and integrity are essential. The ideal candidate will have a proven ability to work collaboratively in diverse teams and respect for diversity. Knowledge sharing and planning and organizing skills are also critical for success in this role.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as business administration, public administration, environmental science, or a related discipline is required. A master's degree in a relevant field is preferred and may be advantageous for candidates seeking to enhance their qualifications.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of two years of professional experience in procurement, project management, or a related field. Experience in sustainable procurement practices and familiarity with the UN system or international organizations will be considered an asset. The ability to analyze complex data and develop strategic recommendations is crucial for this position.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while proficiency in French is highly desirable. Knowledge of Arabic would be an advantage, as it would facilitate communication within the local context and with stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
The assignment is for a duration of 12 months, and the position is based in the MCO office in Tunis, Tunisia. Volunteers will receive a Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA), which includes a Monthly Living Allowance (MLA) and a Family Allowance (FA) for those with dependents. International UN Volunteers assigned to Tunisia must obtain an entry visa prior to arrival and will be supported in obtaining a residence permit upon arrival. The visa process typically takes between 5-15 working days, while the residence permit process may take 4-8 weeks. Volunteers are advised to begin these processes promptly upon arrival.