Procurement Associate

Under the guidance and supervision of the DCD/O and direct supervisor, the Procurement Associate ensures execution of transparent and efficient procurement services and processes in CO. She/He promotes a client-focused, quality and results- oriented approach in the Unit.

The Procurement Associate works in close collaboration with the operations, programmes and projects’ staff in the CO and UNDP HQs staff for resolving complex procurement-related issues and information exchange.

Summary of Key Functions:

• Implementation of operational strategies
• Organization of procurement processes
• Implementation of sourcing strategy
• Control of CO Assets
• Provision of logistical services
• Facilitation of knowledge building and knowledge sharing

1.      Ensures implementation of the operational strategies focusing on achievement of the following results:

• Full compliance of procurement activities with UN/UNDP rules, regulations, policies and strategies; implementation of the effective internal control.
• CO Procurement business processes mapping and elaboration of the content of internal Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in Procurement and Logistics in consultation with the direct supervisor and office management.

2.      Organizes procurement processes for CO, NEX/DEX projects and at the request of other Agencies focusing on achievement of the following results:

• Preparation of procurement plans for the office and projects and their implementation monitoring.
• Organization of procurement processes including preparation and conduct of RFQs, ITBs or RFPs, receipt of quotations, bids or proposals, their evaluation, negotiation of certain conditions of contracts in full compliance with UNDP rules and regulations.
• Preparation of Purchase orders and contracts in and outside Atlas, preparation of Recurring Purchase orders for contracting of services, vendors’ creation in Atlas, Buyers profile in Atlas.
• Preparation of submissions to the Contract, Asset and Procurement Committee (CAP) and Advisory Committee on Procurement (ACP).
• Implementation of the internal control system which ensures that Purchase orders are duly prepared and dispatched. Timely corrective actions on POs with budget check errors and other problems.
• Presentation of reports on procurement in the CO.
• Preparation of cost-recovery bills in Atlas for the procurement services provided by UNDP to other Agencies.
• Implementation of joint procurement processes for the UN Agencies in line with the UN reform.

Preparation of Purchase orders and contracts in and outside Atlas, vendor creation in some small and medium, large offices are performed by Procurement Assistants. Preparation of Recurring POs for contracting services in medium and large offices are performed by Human Resources Assistants. Preparation of Purchase orders and contracts in and outside Atlas in large offices with Service Centres or project offices can be performed by Service Administrators of Service Centres and Procurement Assistants of project offices.

3.      Ensures implementation of sourcing strategy focusing on achievement of the following result:

• Development and update of the rosters of suppliers, implementation of supplier selection and evaluation.

4.      Ensures proper control of CO Assets focusing on achievement of the following result:

• Preparation of inventory reports.
• Implementation of Inventory and physical verification control in the CO and projects.

Physical verification control can be implemented by other staff, e.g. Finance staff.

5.      Ensures organization of logistical services focusing on achievement of the following results:

• Organization of travel including purchase of tickets, DSA calculation, PO preparation; arrangement of shipments; vehicle maintenance; conference facilities arrangements.
• Timely conducted DSA, Travel Agencies, vehicle maintenance, hotel and conference facilities surveys.

6.      Ensures facilitation of knowledge building and knowledge sharing in the CO focusing on achievement of the following results:

• Organization of trainings for the operations/ projects staff on Procurement.
• Synthesis of lessons learnt and best practices in Procurement.
• Sound contributions to knowledge networks and co

The key results have an impact on the overall execution of the CO procurement services and success in implementation of operational strategies.  Accurate analysis and presentation of procurement information, duly organized procurement processes ensure client satisfaction and overall timely delivery of UNDP programmes and projects.

Functional Competencies:             

Building Strategic Partnerships

Level 1.1: Maintaining information and databases

• Analyzes general information and selects materials in support of partnership building initiatives

Promoting Organizational Learning and Knowledge Sharing

Level 1.1: Basic research and analysis

• Researches best practices and poses new, more effective ways of doing things
• Documents innovative strategies and new approaches

Job Knowledge/Technical Expertise

Level 1.1: Fundamental knowledge of processes, methods and procedures

• Understands the main processes and methods of work regarding to the position
• Possesses basic knowledge of organizational policies and procedures relating to the position and applies them consistently in work tasks
• Strives to keep job knowledge up-to-date through self-directed study and other means of learning
• Demonstrates good knowledge of information technology and applies it in work assignments

Promoting Organizational Change and Development

Level 1.1: Presentation of information on best practices in organizational change

• Documents ‘best practices’ in organizational change and development within and outside the UN system
• Demonstrates ability to identify problems and proposes solutions

Design and Implementation of Management Systems

Level 1.1: Data gathering and implementation of management systems

• Uses information/databases/other management systems
• Provides inputs to the development of simple system components

Client Orientation

Level 1.1:  Maintains effective client relationships

• Reports to internal and external clients in a timely and appropriate fashion
• Organizes and prioritizes work schedule to meet client needs and deadlines
• Establishes, builds and sustains effective relationships within the work unit and with internal and external clients
• Responds to client needs promptly

Promoting Accountability and Results-Based Management

Level 1.1:  Gathering and disseminating information

• Gathers and disseminates information on best practice in accountability and results-based management systems
• Prepares timely inputs to reports
• Maintains databases

Core Competencies:

• Demonstrating/safeguarding ethics and integrity 
• Demonstrate corporate knowledge and sound judgment
• Self-development, initiative-taking
• Acting as a team player and facilitating team work
• Facilitating and encouraging open communication in the team, communicating effectively
• Creating synergies through self-control
• Managing conflict
• Learning and sharing knowledge and encourage the learning of others. Promoting learning and knowledge management/sharing is the responsibility of each staff member.
• Informed and transparent decision making

UNDP Procurement Certification programme

Education:

Secondary Education with specialized training in procurement. University Degree in Business or Public Administration would be desirable, but it is not a requirement. Procurement certification level 2 would be an added advantage.
 

Experience:

6 years of progressively responsible administrative experience is required at the national or international level. Experience in the usage of computers and office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc), advance knowledge of automated procurement systems, experience in handling of web based management systems.
 

Language Requirements:

Fluency in the UN and national language of the Duty Station (English).

Qualified women are encouraged to apply.

This vacancy announcement is open to qualified South Africans and valid work permit holders only.

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.