Procurement Associate G6

Job Posting Organization:
The OSCE Programme Office in Dushanbe (POiD) is an integral part of the Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), which was established to promote peace, stability, and democracy in the region. The office engages in a diverse array of activities, including arms control, counter-terrorism, border management, disaster risk reduction, good governance, trafficking in human beings, and gender equality. The OSCE operates in multiple countries across Europe, Central Asia, and North America, with a mission to foster cooperation among its participating states. The office is staffed by a dedicated team of professionals committed to the OSCE's principles and values, and it works closely with various stakeholders to implement its programs effectively. The POiD is funded through a combination of the OSCE's regular budget and extrabudgetary contributions from donors, ensuring a sustainable approach to its initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Associate plays a crucial role in the procurement cycle, providing senior technical support to ensure that procurement activities are conducted efficiently, transparently, and in compliance with the OSCE's Common Regulatory Management System (CRMS) and Procurement and Contracting Manual (PCM). This position requires a high degree of independence, as the incumbent will advise on procurement matters, coordinate complex procurement processes, support procurement planning, and contribute to the continuous improvement of procurement practices. The role is essential for the successful implementation of extrabudgetary projects, as it involves close collaboration with project and administrative staff to facilitate timely procurement actions. The Procurement Associate will also be responsible for conducting market analysis, evaluating sourcing strategies, and identifying procurement risks, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of procurement operations within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The successful candidate will be tasked with a comprehensive set of duties, including: coordinating procurement activities for extrabudgetary projects throughout the procurement cycle by reviewing procurement requests and technical specifications; advising on procurement approaches and planning; preparing and issuing solicitation documents such as Requests for Quotation (RFQ), Invitations to Bid (ITB), and Requests for Proposals (RFP); coordinating procurement and financial evaluations; conducting supplier due diligence; preparing Justifications for Award and contractual documentation; participating in negotiations as required; and ensuring compliance with the OSCE's CRMS, PCM, and applicable donor requirements. Additionally, the Procurement Associate will administer contracts and framework agreements by monitoring contract implementation and supplier performance, advising on contractual matters, coordinating contract amendments, renewals, extensions, and close-out activities, and ensuring compliance with contractual obligations. The role also involves providing procurement advice and guidance to project and administrative staff, conducting market and commercial analysis, evaluating sourcing strategies, identifying sourcing opportunities and procurement risks, and recommending appropriate procurement approaches. Furthermore, the incumbent will monitor procurement activities for extrabudgetary projects by maintaining procurement records in the Integrated Resource Management Application (IRMA), tracking procurement activities and tenders, analyzing procurement statistics and trends to improve cost-effectiveness, and preparing procurement reports as required. Lastly, overseeing the supplier registration and due diligence process and supporting supplier performance management are also key responsibilities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess completed secondary education and specialized training in logistics or procurement. A minimum of 6 years of working experience in procurement, supplies, or related fields is required, with a preference for experience in an international environment. A university degree in a relevant field may substitute for up to two years of working experience for eligibility purposes. Certification in Procurement and Supply Operations, such as CIPS Level 2, is considered an asset. Practical experience with an ERP system is also necessary. Candidates should demonstrate excellent spoken and written communication skills in English, Tajik, and Russian, and must be computer literate with practical experience in Microsoft Office applications. Additionally, candidates should exhibit gender awareness and sensitivity, with the ability to integrate a gender perspective into tasks and activities. The ability and willingness to work as part of a team with individuals from diverse cultural, religious, and political backgrounds while maintaining impartiality and objectivity is essential.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a completed secondary education, with specialized training in logistics or procurement being highly desirable. While a university degree in a relevant field is not mandatory, it may be considered a substitute for up to two years of working experience, which is a significant factor in determining eligibility for the role.

Experience:
The position requires at least 6 years of relevant working experience in procurement or related fields. This experience should ideally include a portion of time spent in an international environment, which would provide the candidate with a broader understanding of global procurement practices and challenges. Candidates with a university degree in a relevant field may have their experience requirement reduced by up to two years, allowing for greater flexibility in eligibility criteria.

Languages:
Proficiency in English, Tajik, and Russian is mandatory for this position, as these languages are essential for effective communication within the OSCE and with external stakeholders. Excellent spoken and written communication skills in these languages are crucial for the successful execution of procurement activities. While not mandatory, knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with a wider range of partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered as a fixed-term contract at the General Services level (G6), with a full-time schedule. The monthly remuneration is subject to social security deductions, amounting to 1,062.33 EUR. Social benefits include participation in the Cigna medical insurance scheme and the OSCE Provident Fund. Appointments are typically made at Step 1 of the applicable OSCE salary scale, but in exceptional cases, an initial appointment at up to Step 3 may be considered based on relevant experience or higher previous remuneration. Candidates should be aware that the OSCE retains the discretion to re-advertise or cancel the vacancy, offer an appointment at a lower grade, or modify the job description or duration. The OSCE is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Additionally, candidates should note that OSCE officials are expected to conduct themselves in a manner befitting their status as international civil servants, maintaining integrity and impartiality in their roles. The OSCE does not reimburse expenses related to interviews, tests, visas, or relocation, and appointments are subject to medical clearance. The mandatory retirement age for contracted positions is 65 years, and candidates should be aware that the OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process.