Chief Procurement (Temporary)

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located in the Procurement Unit of the General Support Section of the Division for Management at the United Nations Office at Vienna (UNOV). UNOV is part of the United Nations system and is dedicated to supporting the work of the UN in various capacities, including procurement and management. The organization aims to promote international cooperation and peace, and it operates in multiple countries around the world, with a focus on addressing global challenges through collaborative efforts. UNOV is committed to upholding the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity in its operations, and it emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion within its workforce.

Job Overview:
The Chief Procurement will serve as a senior procurement and contracting expert responsible for overseeing a team engaged in worldwide procurement of a diverse range of supplies and services. This role involves managing highly complex contracts and procurement activities in accordance with established United Nations procedures and financial regulations. The incumbent will lead procurement activities for the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and other UN entities, providing policy guidance and technical advice throughout the procurement cycle. The position requires a strategic approach to procurement, including the development of new methods and frameworks based on market research, and the implementation of institutional procurement policies. The Chief Procurement will also engage in capacity building and fact-finding missions to UNODC field offices, ensuring that procurement processes are efficient and effective in supporting the UN's mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Chief Procurement will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including: supervising a team in the procurement of complex goods and services; planning and leading procurement activities for UNODC and UNOV; providing policy guidance and technical advice on procurement strategies; analyzing and processing procurement requests; monitoring the development of contracts; supervising the evaluation of tender responses; establishing negotiation approaches; managing supplier identification and registration; conducting capacity building missions; and contributing to reporting on budget and program performance. The role also involves managing the work of the Procurement Unit, ensuring timely execution of activities, and enhancing automation of office procedures. The Chief Procurement will participate in international meetings and provide expertise on procurement issues, while also engaging with oversight bodies regarding procurement recommendations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business administration, public administration, commerce, law, or a related field. A first-level university degree in similar fields combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additionally, candidates must have a professional certification from an internationally recognized procurement authority, such as CIPS or an equivalent certification.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business administration, public administration, commerce, law, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree in similar fields along with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced university degree. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of procurement and contract management within the UN framework.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in procurement, contract management, administration, or a related area is required. Candidates should have experience working with ERP systems and familiarity with the Financial Regulations and Rules of the United Nations or similar international organizations. Experience with SAP (Umoja) is desirable, as is demonstrated experience in implementing procurement structures or supply chain initiatives involving change management. Candidates should also have experience in developing and conducting training in procurement and related processes, as well as managing teams and utilizing data analytics.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations, and proficiency in German is desirable, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level I in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Proficiency in these languages is important for effective communication within the UN and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a temporary position available for 364 days, subject to funding availability. The position may provide an opportunity for the selected candidate to gain new work experience, but it is important to note that it does not guarantee future employment in the same role. The position is classified as a family duty station, and the United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and geographical diversity in its staff. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The recruitment process is free of charge, and the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.