Procurement Officer

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Position Title: Procurement Officer
Location: Kinshasa
Country: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO has a mission to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. With over 7,000 employees and operations in more than 150 countries, WHO works to combat diseases, improve health systems, and respond to health emergencies. The organization is committed to achieving health equity and ensuring that everyone, everywhere can attain the highest level of health.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Officer will play a crucial role in the Polio Eradication Program (PEP) by advising the Operations Team Lead and PEP Team Lead on procurement transactions. This position is essential for ensuring that procurement plans are effectively prepared and implemented, aligning with the strategic objectives of the program. The officer will coordinate with various clusters within the budget center to ensure compliance with organizational rules and regulations. The role requires a proactive approach to managing procurement resources, maintaining supplier databases, and ensuring the smooth operation of procurement transactions. The officer will also be responsible for providing guidance on procurement and logistics to managers and staff, ensuring that the objectives of the PEP are met efficiently and effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Advise the Operations Team Lead and PEP Team Lead on procurement transactions to facilitate informed decision-making.
• Coordinate the preparation and submission of procurement plans by different clusters within the budget center.
• Prepare and monitor the implementation of procurement plans to ensure objectives and priorities are met.
• Evaluate requests from technical units and partners, advising on compliance with organizational rules and regulations.
• Administer procurement resources, ensuring compliant and efficient use of standard operating procedures.
• Maintain a database of pre-qualified and assessed suppliers.
• Monitor procurement, logistics, and contracting services through the GSM oracle system and other tools, providing reports and data.
• Provide guidance on procurement and logistics to managers and staff.
• Ensure smooth operations of procurement transactions, including ordering and delivery of goods and services. 1
• Maintain regular contact with the Regional Contracting and Procurement Service and follow up on Contract Review Committee deliberations. 1
• Follow up on the shipment of ordered items with forwarding companies and liaise with local authorities for tax exemptions and timely customs clearance. 1
• Act as Secretary for the Local Procurement Committee. 1
• Analyze and evaluate vendor performance with designated staff members. 1
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include a first university degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Management, or a related field. Desirable qualifications include an advanced university degree in the same fields. Candidates should possess sound knowledge and skills in procurement and budget management, concrete skills in implementing procurement operations, and proficiency in using Enterprise Resource Planning Oracle systems or similar packages. Strong computer skills in office applications such as Excel, PowerPoint, and Word are also required.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have at least a first university degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Management, or a related field. An advanced degree in these areas is desirable and will enhance the candidate's profile.

Experience:
A minimum of two years of experience is essential, with some experience in an international context, specifically in procurement services and logistics for a program. Desirable experience includes familiarity with Enterprise Resource Planning Oracle systems or similar packages, which will be beneficial for the role.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of French is essential for this position, as it is the primary language of communication. Intermediate knowledge of English is desirable, as it may facilitate communication with international partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive remuneration package, with an annual base salary starting at USD 50,377, subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. A variable post adjustment reflecting the cost of living at the duty station currently amounts to USD 2,800 per month. Additional benefits include 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children. The vacancy notice may be used to fill other similar positions at the same grade level. Candidates under serious consideration will be contacted, and a written test or asynchronous video assessment may be part of the screening process. Candidates must provide scanned copies of required degrees and certificates in advance of an interview. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, ensuring a safe and respectful workplace.