Procurement Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established to lead international efforts to defeat hunger. The organization aims to achieve security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security for all, ensuring that people have regular access to sufficient high-quality food to lead active and healthy lives. The FAO Partnership and Liaison Office in Kazakhstan focuses on developing, promoting, overseeing, and implementing strategies that address food security, agriculture, and rural development priorities in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture of Kazakhstan and other national stakeholders. The FAO operates in numerous countries worldwide, working towards sustainable agricultural practices and food security initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Specialist position is based in the FAO office in Astana, Kazakhstan. The role is crucial for ensuring timely, efficient, and effective procurement of goods and services in compliance with FAO's rules and regulations. The incumbent will work under the supervision of the National Professional Officer/Deputy Head of the office and the analyst" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Administrative Analyst, collaborating closely with other administrative and operations units, as well as relevant counterparts in regional and subregional offices and headquarters. The position requires a proactive approach to managing procurement processes, including the preparation and monitoring of the Annual Procurement Plan, and engaging with various stakeholders to ensure that procurement activities align with organizational goals and standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Procurement Specialist will undertake a variety of duties, including assisting in the preparation, implementation, and monitoring of the Annual Procurement Plan in coordination with the Lead Technical Officer, Project Managers, and requesting units. The role involves preparing and managing procurement processes, selecting appropriate solicitation methods, drafting tender documents, developing sourcing strategies, and issuing solicitation documents through FAO corporate systems. The incumbent will conduct cost and price analyses of quotations and proposals, prepare evaluation reports and recommendations, and support the contract award process. Additionally, the Procurement Specialist will prepare and administer Purchase Orders, Letters of Agreement, service contracts, and framework agreements, while also supporting the implementation and administration of procurement contracts throughout their lifecycle. Liaising with FAO Headquarters, Regional and Subregional Offices, suppliers, and programme personnel on procurement-related matters is essential, as is monitoring supplier performance and coordinating the resolution of procurement-related issues. The role also includes supporting procurement-related financial processes, preparing documentation for the Local Procurement Committee, providing administrative support for customs clearance procedures, and maintaining accurate procurement records and databases.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in business administration, management planning, or related fields. A minimum of three years of relevant experience in project/programme support, financial and administrative assistance to projects is required. Experience working within the UN system is considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate a working knowledge of English, while proficiency in Russian and Kazakh languages is advantageous. Additionally, candidates must be nationals of Kazakhstan or residents of the country with a valid work permit.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a university degree in business administration, management planning, or other related fields. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of procurement processes and the operational needs of the FAO.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience in project or programme support, as well as financial and administrative assistance to projects. Experience within the UN system is highly valued and considered an asset, as it provides familiarity with the organization's operational frameworks and procurement policies.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, proficiency in Russian and Kazakh languages is considered an asset, enhancing communication with local stakeholders and facilitating procurement processes within Kazakhstan.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and based in Astana, Kazakhstan. Candidates must be nationals of Kazakhstan or residents with a valid work permit. The role involves collaboration with various stakeholders and requires a commitment to the FAO's core competencies, including results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing. The specific deadline for applications has not been provided.