Programme Associate, Procurement

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead UN agency focused on sexual and reproductive health and rights. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and territories, working to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization is committed to achieving three transformative results: ending preventable maternal deaths, ending unmet need for family planning, and ending gender-based violence and harmful practices. UNFPA's strategic plan for 2022-2025 emphasizes the importance of addressing the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on women's and girls' access to reproductive health services and rights, while also striving to recover lost gains and realize its goals. UNFPA values principled and ethical staff who embody international norms and standards, and who are committed to delivering excellence in program results.

Job Overview:
The Programme Associate, Procurement position is based in the UNFPA Sri Lanka Country Office in Colombo. The role is crucial for supporting the effective delivery of the Country Programme and projects, particularly in addressing immediate humanitarian needs and enhancing national capacity. The Programme Associate will be responsible for delivering quality procurement and administrative services to both internal and external clients. Reporting to the Operations Analyst, the Programme Associate will play a key role in ensuring that procurement services are managed effectively to achieve the best value for money for the UNFPA country programme. This position requires a collaborative, client-focused, and results-oriented approach to work, aligning with UNFPA's mission and strategic goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Associate, Procurement will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including:

• Supporting the procurement of goods and services for the Country Office by consolidating procurement plans, ensuring compliance with UNFPA rules and regulations, and organizing procurement processes such as requests for quotations and invitations to bid.
• Assisting in logistics management, particularly in emergency preparedness and response, including forecasting and procurement of emergency reproductive health kits and ensuring timely distribution of procured goods.
• Ensuring proper documentation and timely information provision for procurement activities, including preparing reports on procurement status and managing vendor performance.
• Assisting in managing program supplies and inventory, ensuring compliance with corporate guidelines and timely updates of order tracking systems. The role requires a proactive approach to managing contracts and ensuring that procurement activities align with organizational standards.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess completed Secondary Level Education as a minimum requirement. A first-level university degree in business supply chain management or a related field is desirable. Additionally, certification or training related to humanitarian procurement and logistics will be considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of procurement processes and regulations, particularly within the context of UNFPA or similar organizations.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes completed Secondary Level Education as a baseline. A first-level university degree in business supply chain management or a relevant field is preferred. Candidates with certifications or training in humanitarian procurement and logistics will have an advantage in the selection process.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in procurement, logistics, and administration, preferably within the UN, humanitarian, or development sectors. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing procurement processes and logistics in complex environments, demonstrating proficiency in current office software applications and corporate IT systems.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, candidates must be fluent in either Sinhala or Tamil, as these languages are essential for effective communication within the local context and with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other applicable benefits. UNFPA is committed to providing a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization encourages applications from women, individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. UNFPA promotes equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all candidates, regardless of personal characteristics. The selection process may involve background checks, medical clearance, and other administrative requirements. UNFPA does not charge any fees related to the application or recruitment process.