Procurement Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The UNOPS Africa Regional Office, based in Nairobi, Kenya, oversees the delivery of over 250 projects across 40 countries, focusing on fragile and conflict-affected settings. Supported by more than 1,000 personnel across five multi-country offices—spanning North, West, Central, Eastern and Southern Africa, and the Horn of Africa—the office advances national priorities through strategic initiatives in Climate Action, Health, Infrastructure, Peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security, Middle-Income Country Support, and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The Regional Office provides strategic leadership, operational support, and oversight in key areas including Partnerships, Communications, Management and Oversight, Infrastructure and Project Management, Health and Safety, and Security. By promoting excellence in project delivery, fostering knowledge sharing, and driving continuous improvement, the office contributes to sustainable infrastructure, transparent resource management, and a better quality of life for communities across the continent.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Manager is responsible for developing and implementing strategic and effective procurement services that reflect best practices in international public procurement. This includes ensuring compliance with UNOPS procurement rules and regulations, managing risks appropriately, and obtaining the best value for money for the acquisition of goods, services, and contracting of works. The role requires a deep understanding of procurement policies and processes, and the ability to apply them effectively in various situations. The Procurement Manager will focus on strategic relationship building and demand management, which involves aggregating needs and navigating complex organizational structures. The position also entails preparing business cases and understanding the supply market to achieve cost reductions and savings. The incumbent is expected to maintain the highest standards of personal and professional ethics while promoting a collaborative, client-focused, quality, and results-oriented approach within the Business Unit. Close collaboration with Operations, Programme, and Project Management teams, as well as UNOPS HQ personnel, is essential for successful procurement service delivery. The Procurement Manager will supervise and lead procurement personnel, ensuring effective delivery of work results in cooperation with the leadership team in the geographical area.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Procurement Manager will lead the development and implementation of procurement and contracting strategies for goods, services, and works, ensuring appropriate application of UNOPS procurement governance frameworks. Responsibilities include providing supply-market intelligence and analysis, designing and implementing procurement strategies that align with cost reduction and savings goals, and overseeing the implementation of strategic and routine procurement work plans. The role also involves managing procurement processes for the acquisition of goods, services, and construction works, ensuring compliance with procurement policies and procedures. The Procurement Manager will create and manage rosters of suppliers, implement e-procurement tools, and facilitate knowledge sharing and capacity development initiatives for procurement personnel. Additionally, the incumbent will oversee team contributions to procurement knowledge networks and participate in common UN agency procurement groups to support harmonized procurement services.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an Advanced University Degree (Master’s Degree) in Procurement and/or Supply Chain Management, Law, Commerce, Business Administration, Public Administration, Finance, Economics, or a related field, along with a minimum of five years of relevant experience. Alternatively, a First University Degree (Bachelor’s Degree) in a relevant discipline combined with two additional years of relevant professional experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. A Chartered Institute of Supply and Management (CIPS) Level 4 or similar international certification is considered a distinct advantage, especially for those without a degree in Procurement or Supply Chain Management. Knowledge of UN/UNOPS Procurement Rules and Regulations is also advantageous.

Educational Background:
The educational requirements for this position include an Advanced University Degree (Master’s Degree) in a relevant field such as Procurement, Supply Chain Management, Law, Commerce, Business Administration, Public Administration, Finance, or Economics. Candidates with a First University Degree (Bachelor’s Degree) in a relevant discipline may also be considered if they have two additional years of relevant professional experience. For those lacking a degree in Procurement or Supply Chain Management, a CIPS Level 4 certification or similar international qualification is a significant advantage.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant professional procurement experience, particularly in advising on and implementing policies and procedures for complex procurement programs and services. Candidates should have experience managing high-value procurement cases and leading teams that include both local and international personnel. Experience in infrastructure procurement and working with diverse stakeholders in developing or developed countries is desirable. Familiarity with computers, office software, and web-based management systems is also beneficial, along with experience in UN system organizations, particularly in developing countries.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, but English is the mandatory language for communication and documentation.

Additional Notes:
The contract type for this position is ICA - IICA - Regular, with a contract level of IICA

• The position is classified at a mid-level seniority (ICS Level 10) and is expected to last for one year, with the possibility of renewal subject to satisfactory performance and funding availability. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging applications from qualified women and candidates from underrepresented groups. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, and other forms of abusive conduct. Background checks are conducted for all final candidates, and candidates must acknowledge and consent to these verification processes when applying.