Sustainable Supply Chains Intern

Sustainable Supply Chains Intern

UN Offices

April 12, 2025April 26, 2025CopenhagenDenmark
UN Offices About
The United Nations is an international organization founded in 1945. It is currently made up of 193 Member States. The mission and work of the United Nations are guided by the purposes and principles contained in its founding Charter. Due to the powers vested in its Charter and its unique international character, the United Nations can take action on the issues confronting humanity in the 21st century, such as peace and security, climate change, sustainable development, human rights, disarmament, terrorism, humanitarian and health emergencies, gender equality, governance, food production, and more. The UN also provides a forum for its members to express their views in the General Assembly, the Security Council, the Economic and Social Council, and other bodies and committees. By enabling dialogue between its members, and by hosting negotiations, the Organization has become a mechanism for governments to find areas of agreement and solve problems together.
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The Procurement Group (PG) is based at UNOPS HQ in Copenhagen and leads the organization’s procurement practice. Established to articulate strategy, policy positions, and innovative solutions for procurement at UNOPS, PG is responsible for enabling operational oversight of procurement activities through appropriate systems and reports. The organization emphasizes efficient, transparent, cost-effective, and sustainable delivery of goods, services, and works, aligning with public procurement best practices. Annually, UNOPS procures over USD 1 billion worth of goods and services on behalf of its partners, which include life-saving pharmaceuticals, mine action equipment, and road construction services. UNOPS has established itself as a leader in sustainable procurement within the UN environment, operationalizing its commitment through a Sustainable Procurement Framework that includes mandatory sustainability requirements and initiatives aimed at supplier diversity and inclusion.

Job Overview:
The Sustainable Supply Chains Intern will work under the guidance of the Sustainable Supply Chains Manager to support the implementation of the UNOPS Sustainable Procurement Framework, focusing on supplier diversity and inclusion. The intern will assist in various team tasks and work packages aimed at expanding and improving sustainable supply chain efforts. This role includes providing coordination support for Supplier Diversity & Inclusion initiatives, aiding in the operationalization of the Sustainable Procurement Framework, and contributing to internal communications through webinars, workshops, and case studies. The intern will also engage in research and analysis to collect data on sustainability trends and develop guidelines and publications. This internship offers exposure to sustainability at the corporate level, sustainable procurement in a global context, and the opportunity to work in a multicultural environment, with dedicated learning time with the supervisor and participation in UN training courses.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The intern's duties include supporting the Sustainable Supply Chains team with the implementation of Supplier Diversity & Inclusion initiatives, assisting in the operationalization of the Sustainable Procurement Framework, and providing communication support through various channels. Specific tasks may involve coordinating webinars and workshops, monitoring team email inboxes, developing guidance materials, conducting market research, and analyzing data related to diversity and inclusion trends. The intern will also have the opportunity to learn about sustainability practices within the UN and contribute to the development of communication materials and tools.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess a strong motivation for the role, preferably with a background in diversity and inclusion, sustainability, or a related field. While prior work experience is not required, knowledge of procurement or supply chain management is considered an asset. Strong computer literacy is essential, particularly in Google Workspace or Microsoft Office, with proficiency in Google Sheets/Excel and presentation tools. The ability to develop communication materials and experience with data visualization tools are also advantageous.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have completed secondary school or equivalent and should be studying towards a university degree or have graduated within the past three years to be eligible for this internship.

Experience:
While no prior work experience is required, any previous experience in diversity and inclusion, sustainability, or corporate social responsibility is considered an asset. Familiarity with supplier/vendor management, circular economy principles, and communication material development will enhance a candidate's profile.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Knowledge of another UN language such as French, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, or Arabic will be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The internship contract is for a duration of 6 months, extendable to a maximum of 12 months, subject to satisfactory performance and funding availability. This internship is not designed to lead to a staff position with UNOPS, and there should be no expectation of employment at the end of the internship. Interns may receive a monthly stipend of USD 1631 and a one-time travel lump sum depending on their location. Candidates are encouraged to attach a cover letter explaining their motivation for the position. The closing date for applications is midnight Copenhagen time, and late applications will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be notified, and UNOPS encourages qualified female candidates to apply.
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