Individual Consultant - Logistics Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on reproductive health and rights, aiming to ensure that every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of approximately 4,000 employees. The organization is dedicated to advancing the global agenda on population and development, particularly in the context of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNFPA's mission is to deliver a world where every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization emphasizes the importance of human rights and gender equality in its operations, striving to empower individuals and communities through informed choices and access to essential health services. UNFPA's Supply Chain Management Unit (SCMU) was established in January 2022 to enhance the delivery of life-saving reproductive health products and other program supplies, ensuring they reach the end-users efficiently and effectively. The SCMU is self-funded and plays a crucial role in coordinating logistics and supply chain activities across UNFPA's programs, focusing on building the capacity of governments and partners to manage supply chains effectively.

Job Overview:
The Individual Consultant will play a vital role in supporting the Logistics Management Services (LMS) Team in executing day-to-day global logistics operations. This includes managing freight, inventory, customer orders, shipment monitoring, and logistics documentation. The consultant will ensure the timely and compliant delivery of reproductive health commodities and humanitarian supplies while maintaining accurate logistics records and supporting operational reporting. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including internal teams and external partners, to facilitate effective logistics operations. The consultant will report to either the Freight Team Lead or the Stock Management Team Lead, depending on the assignment. The role is critical in contributing to continuous process improvement and business continuity within the SCMU's logistics operations, aligning with UNFPA's mission to enhance reproductive health services globally.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a range of logistics operations and customer support activities, including:

• Supporting the planning, coordination, and execution of logistics operations related to program supplies and reproductive health commodities.
• Providing guidance to internal and external customers on logistics, inventory, and shipment management processes.
• Processing and monitoring customer orders and logistics transactions from receipt to final delivery.
• Coordinating with suppliers, freight forwarders, and logistics service providers to ensure timely delivery of supplies.
• Analyzing quotations and freight rates to support operational decision-making.
• Monitoring inventory availability and stock movements.
• Supporting transportation planning and shipment execution using various transport solutions.
• Ensuring compliance with UNFPA policies and procedures.
• Participating in training sessions and knowledge-sharing initiatives related to supply chain management. 1
• Contributing to the development and improvement of standard operating procedures and operational tools. 1
• Collaborating with colleagues across SCMU and other partners to support effective supply chain operations. 1
• Carrying out any other duties as required by SCMU leadership.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 6 years of progressively responsible experience in inventory management, humanitarian response, logistics, or related areas, preferably within social mission-driven organizations. This requirement is reduced to 3 years for candidates with a relevant first-level or advanced university degree. Candidates with experience in managing international or in-country inventory and logistics operations in the health sector will have an added advantage. Familiarity with UN procurement and supply chain policies is essential, as is experience with analytical applications and performance metrics. Knowledge of global supply chain security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and compliance regulations is required, along with strong interpersonal skills and the ability to develop partnerships. Proficiency in project management and experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are also necessary.

Educational Background:
Completion of secondary education is required, with a university degree at the Bachelor Level in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field considered an asset. Additional certifications such as CIPS Level 2, CILT-UK Level 3, or project management qualifications (e.g., PRINCE2, PMP, CAPM) are advantageous and enhance a candidate's profile.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience at the national or international level in logistics or inventory management, with a focus on humanitarian response. Candidates with a relevant degree may qualify with only 3 years of experience. Experience in managing logistics operations in the health sector and familiarity with UN procurement policies will be beneficial. Proficiency in using analytical tools and ERP systems is also essential for this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. A working knowledge of any other UN official language is considered an asset, enhancing communication capabilities within the international context of UNFPA's operations.

Additional Notes:
The assignment duration is 11 months, with the consultant expected to work on-site in Copenhagen from Monday to Friday, totaling 40 hours per week. UNFPA promotes a diverse and inclusive work environment, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups, including women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and persons with disabilities. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to support applicants with disabilities during the recruitment process. The organization emphasizes gender equality and diversity, aiming for a balanced workforce that reflects the communities it serves.