UN Procurement Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Support Office in Haiti (UNSOH) was established to provide support primarily to the Gang Suppression Force (GSF), the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH), the Haitian National Police (HNP), and the Haitian Armed Forces. The organization is tasked with delivering technical assistance to the Organization of American States (OAS) and operates in the context of joint operations with the GSF. UNSOH aims to enhance security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and stability in Haiti through effective support and collaboration with local and international partners.

Job Overview:
The UN Procurement Officer position is a senior role within the Procurement Section of UNSOH, based in Santo Domingo. The incumbent will be responsible for overseeing the procurement of a wide variety of supplies and services, particularly those associated with complex contracts and procurement activities. This role requires providing technical advice on procurement activities to officials during all phases of the procurement cycle, analyzing procurement requests, and ensuring the appropriateness of technical specifications. The officer will develop and prepare highly complex contracts, issue international tender invitations, evaluate responses, and make recommendations for finalizing purchases and awarding contracts. The position also involves developing tactical approaches to contracts based on market research, contributing to the development of institutional procurement policies, and maintaining oversight of production patterns in exporting countries. The officer will conduct negotiations with concerned parties and provide guidance to junior staff, ensuring effective procurement processes are followed.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Procurement Officer will serve as a senior expert in procurement and contracting, responsible for a range of duties including:

• Managing the procurement of complex goods and services, ensuring compliance with international procurement standards.
• Providing technical advice on procurement activities to various stakeholders.
• Analyzing procurement requests and ensuring technical specifications are met.
• Developing and preparing contracts for technologically advanced commodities or services.
• Issuing international tender invitations and evaluating responses.
• Signing procurement orders within authorized limits and preparing submissions for the Contracts Committee when necessary.
• Developing tactical approaches to contracts based on market research.
• Contributing to the development of procurement policies and procedures.
• Maintaining oversight of production patterns in exporting countries and evaluating supplier capacities. 1
• Conducting negotiations and resolving disputes arising from contracts. 1
• Providing direction and guidance to junior staff members.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of internationally recognized procurement standards and techniques, as well as contract law. They should have the ability to handle complex procurement issues and develop procurement policies and procedures. The role requires a high level of professionalism, including the ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and demonstrate a commitment to gender equality in the workplace. Strong communication skills are essential, as the officer will need to effectively convey information and maintain productive partnerships with clients. Additionally, managerial competencies such as performance management and staff empowerment are crucial for success in this role.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business administration, public administration, commerce, engineering, law, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Professional certification in supply chain management, such as Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply certification (CIPS Level 4), is also required for this position.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in procurement, contract management, contract administration, logistics, or supply chain management. Additionally, at least two consecutive years of experience within the last five years conducting international tender exercises for complex goods and services is required. Experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems such as SAP or e-tendering systems like Ariba is desirable, as is experience managing a multicultural team at either the country or global level. Familiarity with the United Nations system or a comparable international organization is also advantageous.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Spanish is considered a desirable language, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level I. Candidates should be able to communicate effectively in both languages to fulfill the requirements of the role.

Additional Notes:
This position is part of a 'Recruit from Roster' job opening, meaning it is only open to applicants who are already on pre-approved rosters. The appointment is subject to the availability of the post or funds, and candidates should be prepared to accept the offer if selected. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The position may involve temporary assignments and is subject to the organization's mobility requirements. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and is committed to maintaining a non-smoking environment.