Contracts Officer, (NOA), Buenos Aires, Argentina (Open to Argentinean nationals)

Under the direct supervision of Operations Manager, the incumbent is accountable for delivering efficient and cost-effective administrative support services and responsible for effective planning and proper sourcing to contract institutions and individuals. Conduct efficient procurement to attain the lowest cost without sacrificing quality of services and supplies, in support of the Country Programmes, innovative PFP activities and operations.

Key Accountabilities and Duties & Tasks

Summary of key functions/accountabilities:

Provide rapid and relevant assistance and support to identify procurement and supply needs, including emergency situations, with a priority on achieving value for money

• Support logistics/procurement planning through coordination with PFP, Operations and Programme Sections.
• Provides technical support and prepare and consolidated strategic procurement plan with specifications, sourcing modalities and required contracts arrangements to facilitate cost-effective efficient procurement of services and goods, in support of the country programme implementation and PFP strategic fundraising plan.
• Assist in the Country Programme and PFP strategy planning reviews to recommend on supply/services requirements and to provide support in the preparation of Plan of Operations and Plans of Actions.
• Assist in the implementation of supply/logistics component of the Country Programme, including systems for storage and distribution of supplies to all project sites and PFP campaigns.
• Support Regional Office and Supply Division to identify and build partnership with local suppliers with the capacity to source and response in regional/global emergencies

Implement sound, accurate procurement/logistics management systems, procedures and documentation as well as regular, accurate reporting to maintain the highest level of integrity, standards and accountability

• Maintain effective working relations and contact with the Supply Division, Copenhagen, to confer on supply procurement and shipping policies and procedures.  Advise the country office on policies and procedures impacting on offshore and local procurement and delivery.  Maintain link with Copenhagen on transnational shipments, deliveries, claims and appropriateness of supplies
• Act as secretary and adviser to the CRC.  Establish and maintain a system of contact with customs and port/airport authorities at national ports of entry on the clearance of UNICEF supplies, in keeping with established protocol
• Supervise the staff in preparation of appropriate documentation: LTAs, supply requisitions, purchase orders, CRC submissions etc.
• Participate in the preparation/compilation of the procurement status reports required for donor reports, Programmes and PFP follow-up, budget reviews, interagency meetings, programme analysis, annual reports, appeals, etc.
• Help to develop and communicate accurate inventory tracking, inventory aging and incoming supplies information

Conduct and monitor effective procurement, local, regional and/or offshore, with a goal to attain lowest cost without sacrificing quality as applicable

• Collaborate in key fundraising activities and undertake field visits to project sites and monitor inventory and supply inputs. Proposes corrective actions to improve service and logistical procedures.
• Conduct local procurement through issuance of tenders, bid adjudication and contract management. Prepare and implement a sourcing strategy to identify proper service providers, individuals and institutions.  Maintain data on and evaluate local supply sources' overall performance, (competitive pricing, product quality and timely delivery). Assess supply operations and control mechanisms and propose appropriate actions.
• Communicate and report quality issues with respect to supplies and/or service agreements

Collaboration and Partnership

• Coordinate with the Programme/PFP Sections on procurement planning, providing support on procurement and supply administration as well as providing advice on the development of the supply component of the Country Programme.
• Provide advice to the Country Office and Government on offshore and/or local procurement policies and procedures, delivery and utilization of UNICEF supplies and equipment; coordinate with the Supply Division, Copenhagen, on supply policy and/or activities.
• Team with the Programme/PFP Sections and other members of the Operations Section to facilitate procurement as well as efficient customs clearance, storage and distribution of supplies and equipment.
• Maintain partnership and collaborative relations with UNICEF, Government, UN, and bilateral counterparts in procurement and logistics activities, including distribution, and monitoring supply inputs and inventory

Qualifications of Successful Candidate

Competencies of Successful Candidate

Core Values

Commitment

Diversity and Inclusion

Integrity

Core competencies

Communication (I)

Drive for results (I)

Working With People (I)

Functional Competencies

Applying technical expertise (I)

Planning and Organizing (II)

Following Instructions and Procedures (II)

Recruitment Qualifications 

Experience: One year of relevant professional work experience.Both national and international work experience in supply, logistics, purchasing, contracting and administration and/or other related fields. Work experience in emergency duty station. Experience in database packages, web based management systems and ERP systems (preferably SAP financial modules) is an asset

Language Requirements:  Fluency in Spanish and English is required.

Education: University degree in Business Administration, Management, International Economics, Engineering, Contract/commercial Law or in directly related areas of specialization, including credited courses in supply, logistics, purchasing or contracting. A recognized qualification in procurement and contracting is an asset. Educational qualification in relevant areas (transport or logistics operations/management, supply change management, etc.) is an asset.

Nationality: Argentinean

To view our competency framework, please click here. 

UNICEF is committed to diversity and inclusion within its workforce, and encourages qualified female and male candidates from all national, religious and ethnic backgrounds, including persons living with disabilities, to apply to become a part of our organization.