Procurement Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. With a workforce of over 7,000 employees, WHO operates in more than 150 countries, working closely with governments and other partners to address health challenges and improve health outcomes globally. WHO's strategic objectives include ensuring universal health coverage, addressing health emergencies, and promoting healthier populations.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Assistant will play a crucial role in supporting the WHO country office in Cairo by ensuring the timely procurement of goods and services. This position is essential for maintaining the effectiveness, transparency, and integrity of the procurement process. The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the Business Operations Associate and the overall supervision of the Head of WHO Country Office. The role requires the ability to perform day-to-day tasks independently while adhering to WHO procurement guidelines and administrative instructions. The Procurement Assistant will be involved in various procurement activities, including preparing goods for procurement, initiating local purchase requests, drafting purchase order amendments, and maintaining supplier databases. The position demands strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Procurement Assistant will be responsible for the following duties:

• Participate in the analysis and preparation of goods for procurement for various technical and emergency programs, ensuring adherence to WHO guidelines.
• Initiate local purchase requests for both catalogue and non-catalogue items using the GSM system, monitor their status, and ensure timely delivery.
• Draft purchase order amendments and provide justifications as needed.
• Prepare requests for price estimates for non-catalogue items and obtain estimated costs from relevant units.
• Assist in drafting bid invitations, compiling offers, and preparing summaries of bids.
• Arrange meetings for the Country Procurement Committee and disseminate necessary documents.
• Maintain and update the suppliers' database and complete supplier evaluation forms.
• Prepare periodic procurement reports and assist in correspondence to verify data and answer queries.
• Perform other related duties and replace colleagues as required.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate must possess the following qualifications:

• Completion of secondary education, supplemented by training in a field related to procurement.
• A university degree in business administration, social sciences, or a related field is desirable.
• Proven knowledge of procurement regulations and procedures.
• Demonstrated negotiation skills and very good organizational abilities.
• Good analytical skills and the ability to meet deadlines.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes:

• Essential: Completion of secondary education.
• Desirable: A university degree in business administration, social sciences, or a related field is an asset, which would enhance the candidate's understanding of procurement processes and practices.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least three years of progressive experience in procurement. Relevant experience within the UN system is considered an asset, as it provides familiarity with the specific procurement regulations and procedures that govern UN operations.

Languages:
The mandatory languages for this position include:

• Expert knowledge of English.
• Expert knowledge of Arabic. Desirable: Intermediate knowledge of French is a plus, as it may facilitate communication in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including an annual net base salary starting at USD 14,391, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. Staff members are entitled to 30 days of annual leave. The position is subject to local recruitment, meaning it will be filled by candidates from the local commuting area of Cairo. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. Candidates may be required to provide proof of vaccination as part of the hiring process, and WHO has a smoke-free environment, not recruiting smokers or tobacco users.