Acquisition Planning Officer

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Position Title: Acquisition Planning Officer
Location: Bangui
Country: Central African Republic
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA), which aims to support the Central African Republic in achieving peace and stability. The UN mission was established to assist in the stabilization of the country, which has faced significant challenges due to conflict and humanitarian crises. The organization operates in various capacities across multiple countries, focusing on peacekeeping, humanitarian assistance, and development efforts. MINUSCA employs a diverse workforce, including international and local staff, and is committed to promoting gender equality and diversity within its ranks.

Job Overview:
The Acquisition Planning Officer plays a crucial role in the Acquisition Management Section of the Supply Chain Management Service. This position involves collaborating with technical units to prepare projected demand and establish the mission's annual demand plan. The officer will conduct thorough analyses of demand, supply, and consumption to ensure optimal inventory levels and cost efficiency. Responsibilities include monitoring stock levels, automating replenishment activities, and consolidating budget projections. The officer will also liaise with various UN entities to ensure the mission's demand plan aligns with global acquisition strategies. This role requires a proactive approach to managing the acquisition process for a wide range of services and commodities, ensuring that operational supply chain requirements are met effectively and efficiently.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Acquisition Planning Officer will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including:

• Liaising with technical units to prepare projected demand for the mission's annual demand plan.
• Conducting quantitative and qualitative analyses of demand, supply, and consumption using Umoja ERP Data.
• Monitoring and controlling inventory stock levels and automating replenishment activities.
• Consolidating budget projections and demand plans from technical units.
• Liaising with UN Global Service Centre and UNHQ regarding the mission's demand plan.
• Monitoring requisitions to ensure they align with the forecasted plan.
• Initiating actions for the implementation of the Mission Acquisition Plan.
• Contributing to the management of the acquisition process for various services and commodities.
• Advising technical units on the progress of acquisition activities. 1
• Preparing Standard Operating Procedures and guidelines for acquisition planning. 1
• Maintaining a computer-based system to track contracts. 1
• Preparing reports to monitor the supply chain. 1
• Providing guidance to junior staff and performing other related duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in supply chain management, particularly in acquisition planning and procurement. They should demonstrate proven analytical skills, including the ability to research and analyze data effectively. The ideal candidate will have a comprehensive understanding of inventory management procedures and the ability to develop and apply these procedures in a practical context. Additionally, candidates should exhibit professionalism, efficiency, and a commitment to achieving results while maintaining a focus on gender perspectives in their work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in supply chain management, business administration, logistics, procurement, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Specialized certifications such as Supply Chain Operations Reference Professional (SCOR-P) and Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) are desirable, as well as training in Project Management methodology from an accredited body.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in supply chain management, acquisition planning, procurement, or a related area is required. Experience in similar roles within the UN or international organizations is highly desirable. Familiarity with MRP, ERP systems, and logistics processes is also beneficial, as it demonstrates the candidate's ability to navigate complex supply chain environments effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the UN secretariat. Knowledge of French is desirable, as it enhances communication within the diverse environment of the UN and may be necessary for liaising with various stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and may require staff to move periodically to new functions in their careers. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and is dedicated to maintaining a non-smoking environment. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities upon request.