Procurement Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a prominent UN agency established to assist countries in eradicating poverty, reducing inequalities, and building resilience. Operating in approximately 170 countries and territories, UNDP aims to help nations achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In Ukraine, UNDP focuses on three main program priorities: Democratic Governance and Inclusive Social Fabric, Inclusive and Sustainable Economic Recovery and Growth, and Sustainable Environment and Energy Transformation. Since the onset of hostilities in 2014 and the full-scale invasion in 2022, UNDP has maintained a strong presence in Ukraine, supporting local authorities and civil society in emergency response and crisis management. The organization has developed its Country Programme Document for 2025-2029, which emphasizes the Area-Based Recovery (ABR) Framework, focusing on community recovery and creating conditions for sustainable development in Ukraine.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Associate plays a crucial role in ensuring the effective delivery of procurement services in alignment with UNDP rules and regulations. This position supports the implementation of ABR projects and programmatic goals, promoting UNDP's commitment to gender responsiveness and zero tolerance for discriminatory behaviors. The incumbent is expected to facilitate procurement processes, contribute to the development of procurement plans, and ensure compliance with internal controls. The role also involves managing procurement documentation, conducting market research, and providing guidance on procurement-related matters. The Procurement Associate will work closely with the Procurement Specialist and other stakeholders to ensure transparency and efficiency in procurement services.

Duties and Responsibilities:
1) Ensure implementation of operational strategies of the ABR by ensuring full compliance of procurement activities with UN/UNDP rules and regulations, and implementing effective internal controls. 2) Contribute to procurement processes for ABR projects by facilitating the preparation of procurement plans, organizing procurement processes, preparing Purchase Orders and Contracts, and managing the internal control system. 3) Ensure implementation of sourcing strategies by conducting market research for procurement cases. 4) Facilitate knowledge building and sharing by providing procurement guidance and synthesizing lessons learned in ABR procurement processes. 5) Promote gender equality and a safe, inclusive workplace by demonstrating leadership in fostering an organizational culture of respect and accountability. 6) Perform other duties as necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of secondary education, with a University Degree in Procurement, Logistics, Management, Economics, Law, Business Administration, Public Administration, Engineering, or a related field being highly desirable. CIPS level 2 certification is also highly desirable, and candidates should obtain it within one year of recruitment if not already held. Candidates should have experience in procurement, supply chain, logistics, or related areas, with a minimum of 6 years of relevant work experience for those with secondary education, or 3 years for those with a Bachelor's degree. Proficiency in using office software and automated procurement systems is required, along with experience in handling web-based management systems and organizing procurement processes.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes secondary education as a minimum, with a preference for candidates holding a University Degree in relevant fields such as Procurement, Logistics, Management, Economics, Law, Business Administration, Public Administration, or Engineering. CIPS level 2 certification is highly desirable and should be obtained within one year of recruitment if not already held.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 6 years of progressively responsible experience in procurement, supply chain, logistics, or related areas for candidates with secondary education, or 3 years for those with a Bachelor's degree. Experience with automated procurement systems and web-based management systems is also desirable, along with prior experience in managing procurement processes for UN agencies or international organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Ukrainian is mandatory for this position, ensuring effective communication and understanding of procurement processes within the context of UNDP's operations in Ukraine.

Additional Notes:
This position is a national role based in Kharkiv, Ukraine, under the direct supervision of the Procurement Specialist. The role is full-time and involves a commitment to promoting gender equality and a safe, inclusive workplace. UNDP is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity, encouraging qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. The organization does not tolerate harassment, discrimination, or abuse of authority and conducts relevant checks on selected candidates.