Procurement Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) was established to promote sustainable development of human settlements and policies that ensure adequate housing for all. It operates globally, focusing on urban development and working with various stakeholders, including governments and civil society, to create inclusive, resilient, and sustainable urban environments. The Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (ROLAC) is based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and has been expanding its portfolio in the country to support effective urban policies.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Advisor will play a crucial role in supporting the UN-Habitat Brazil Country Office by ensuring compliance with procurement policies and procedures. This position involves collaborating with various teams to achieve project objectives and organizational priorities. The advisor will be responsible for the entire procurement process, from planning to contract closure, ensuring transparency and efficiency. The role requires a strong understanding of procurement principles and the ability to provide technical guidance to project teams. The incumbent will also be involved in monitoring supplier performance and managing procurement risks, contributing to the overall success of UN-Habitat's initiatives in Brazil.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Procurement Advisor's responsibilities include:

• Contributing to the development and monitoring of procurement plans.
• Facilitating end-to-end procurement processes, ensuring transparency and efficiency.
• Preparing and maintaining procurement documentation.
• Conducting market research and supplier analysis.
• Engaging with suppliers throughout the procurement cycle.
• Monitoring contract implementation and supplier performance.
• Providing technical reviews of procurement requests.
• Identifying procurement risks and implementing mitigation measures.
• Offering guidance on procurement policies and procedures. 1
• Developing procurement tools and standard operating procedures. 1
• Monitoring expenditures against project budgets. 1
• Preparing procurement reports for stakeholders. 1
• Contributing to audits and compliance assessments. 1
• Managing inventory and warehouse activities. 1
• Drafting official correspondence related to procurement. 1
• Participating in missions and meetings as required. 1
• Collaborating with various teams to address procurement challenges. 1
• Contributing to compliance with UN-Habitat quality standards. 1
• Ensuring ethical principles are upheld in procurement activities. 2
• Performing other management-related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Business Administration, Public Administration, Management, or a related field. A postgraduate specialization in procurement or a related area is required, or alternatively, an additional four years of relevant experience beyond the basic requirement. CIIPS Level 4 certification or equivalent international procurement certification is desirable, along with specialized training in procurement or contract management within the UN or other international organizations.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field is mandatory, with a preference for candidates holding a Master's degree or equivalent specialization in procurement, supply chain management, or related areas. Additional certifications in procurement or contract management are advantageous.

Experience:
A minimum of six years of progressively responsible experience in procurement, purchasing, contract management, or supply chain is required. Candidates should demonstrate experience in managing procurement processes and supplier relationships, with a preference for those who have worked within the UN System.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese and English is required for this position, with a working knowledge of Spanish being desirable. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication within the UN and with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The contract is for a duration of six months, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. The position is local, and only Brazilian nationals or those with a permanent visa in Brazil may apply. The role may require official travel within Brazil, subject to project needs and prior authorization. Remuneration will be determined according to UNOPS Local ICA or UNDP salary scales. All applications must be submitted in English and will be treated confidentially. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process.