Procurement Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is a regional arm of the United Nations established to promote economic and social development in Africa. ECA's mission is to deliver ideas and actions for an empowered and transformed Africa, informed by the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 206

• The organization operates with a focus on five strategic directions: enhancing its role as a knowledge institution, developing macroeconomic policies, implementing innovative financing models, addressing regional challenges, and advocating for Africa's position globally. ECA aims to provide solutions to the continent's problems and facilitate local solutions to global issues. It employs a diverse workforce and operates in multiple countries across the African continent, contributing to various development initiatives and programs.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Officer position is located within the Division of Administration at the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), specifically in the Supply Chain Management Section (SCMS). The role involves serving as the Chief of the Procurement Unit, acting as a senior procurement and contracting expert responsible for complex civil and construction works, and overseeing the procurement of a wide variety of goods and services. The Procurement Officer will provide procurement support to the multi-year and multi-million dollar Capital Investment Programme (CIP), aimed at renovating and modernizing ECA’s real estate holdings. The position requires continuous identification of major procurement needs to enhance ECA's operations, establishing and maintaining procurement policies and compliance standards, and ensuring that best practices are followed across the Commission. The Procurement Officer will also work closely with requisitioners to negotiate contracts, review procurement processes, and provide technical advice throughout the procurement cycle.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Procurement Officer will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including: serving as Chief of the Procurement Unit; managing complex procurement processes for civil and construction works; identifying procurement needs and implementing improvements; establishing procurement policies and compliance standards; negotiating contracts with suppliers; reviewing procurement processes for cost control; providing technical advice on procurement-related issues; developing complex contracts for technologically advanced commodities; issuing international tender invitations; evaluating tender responses; contributing to the development of procurement policies; leading efficiency improvements in procurement processes; addressing human resource needs within the unit; collecting and analyzing data to identify trends; coordinating the deployment of procurement-related tools; and performing any other duties as required by senior management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a professional certification such as CIPS Level 4 (or equivalent) and should have knowledge of internationally recognized procurement standards and contract law. The ability to develop procurement policies and procedures, as well as expertise in handling complex procurement issues, is essential. Candidates should demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and client orientation, with a strong ability to analyze and interpret data to support decision-making. The role requires a commitment to gender perspectives and ensuring equal participation in all areas of work.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in business administration, public administration, commerce, engineering, finance, law, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is considered an advantage.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience, with at least four years directly in procurement. Experience in contract management and administration is desirable. Additionally, two or more years of experience in data analytics or a related area is also preferred, highlighting the importance of analytical skills in the procurement process.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another UN official language is desirable, which would enhance communication and collaboration within the international environment of the UN.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to the authority of the Secretary-General, and staff members are expected to move periodically to new functions in their careers. The United Nations is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from underrepresented member states. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. The evaluation of candidates will be based on qualifications and organizational needs, with a focus on securing the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity.