Procurement Associate

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Position Title: Procurement Associate
Location: Kuala Lumpur
Country: Malaysia
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a global development network that advocates for change and connects countries to knowledge, experience, and resources to help people build a better life. Established in 1965, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories, working to eradicate poverty and reduce inequalities through the sustainable development of nations. The organization emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion as core principles, ensuring that all personnel are empowered to contribute to its mission. UNDP's multi-country office in Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei Darussalam provides technical assistance and advisory services to these governments in their efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The Procurement Associate plays a crucial role in ensuring the efficient execution of procurement services and processes within the UNDP Malaysia Country Office. Reporting directly to the Procurement & Administration Lead, the incumbent is responsible for analyzing and interpreting procurement rules and regulations, providing solutions to complex procurement-related issues, and promoting a client-focused approach to procurement management. The role requires close collaboration with various teams within the Country Office and UNDP Headquarters to resolve procurement-related challenges and facilitate effective information exchange. The Procurement Associate is expected to support the implementation of operational strategies, assist in contract management, and contribute to strategic procurement activities, ensuring alignment with UNDP's policies and regulations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Procurement Associate will execute a variety of duties under the supervision of the Procurement & Administration Lead, including:

• Supporting the implementation of operational strategies by ensuring procurement activities align with UNDP rules and regulations, providing input for the design of a client-oriented procurement management system, and assisting in contract management processes.
• Providing procurement support for the Country Office, including preparing procurement documents (RFQs, ITBs, RFPs), facilitating evaluation processes, and ensuring timely resolution of procurement-related issues.
• Supporting sourcing strategies and e-procurement implementation by conducting market research, maintaining supplier rosters, and assisting in the adoption of e-procurement tools.
• Facilitating knowledge building and sharing within the Country Office by documenting lessons learned and best practices in procurement and providing guidance to colleagues on procurement policies and procedures.
• Performing other duties as necessary for the efficient functioning of the Office and the Organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess secondary education as a minimum requirement. A university degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Finance, Economics, Management, Supply Management/Logistics, Procurement, International Business, International Trade, or a related field is preferred. Additionally, holding a CIPS level 3 certification is highly desirable, and candidates with this certification at the time of application will have a distinct advantage. If not available at the time of recruitment, it should be obtained within one year of recruitment. Candidates with lower-level CIPS certifications will also have a proportionate advantage.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes secondary education as a baseline, with a preference for candidates holding a university degree in relevant fields such as Business Administration, Public Administration, Finance, Economics, Management, Supply Management/Logistics, Procurement, International Business, or International Trade. The CIPS level 3 certification is highly desirable and should be obtained within one year of recruitment if not already held.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in administration, operations, or procurement at the national or international level if they possess secondary education. Alternatively, candidates with a bachelor's degree should have at least 4 years of relevant experience. Experience managing procurement-related budgets, bidding and evaluation documents, and overseeing timely implementation of procurement tasks is essential. Previous work experience in public procurement, particularly within UN, development organizations, government entities, or INGOs, is highly advantageous. Experience in procuring complex requirements, such as consultancies or IT services, is also beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English and the national language, Bahasa Melayu, is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and may involve working with international teams. UNDP has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and misconduct, and all selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks. The organization emphasizes diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from marginalized or excluded populations. UNDP does not charge any fees in connection with the application or recruitment process, and candidates are advised to be cautious of scams.