Procurement Specialist

Org. Setting and ReportingUNRWA, the largest United Nations operation in the Middle East with over 30,000 staff working across five areas of operation, is looking for highly committed personnel wishing to make a change. If you are looking for a rewarding opportunity to make a tangible difference for one of the most vulnerable communities in the world, UNRWA would like to hear from you. The Procurement Specialist reports to the Chief, Central Support Services Division (CSSD). ResponsibilitiesParticipates in the planning process and contributes to an integrated approach and consistency in the implementation and operationalization of the Agency procurement plan. Plans, develops and manages procurement and contractual activities related to procurement of diverse services and goods related to, information technology and electronic equipment. The incumbent may be requested to help with contracts related to building maintenance, construction, etc. taking into account local economic and other conditions; prepares solicitation documents, identifies method of solicitation, conducts and ensures that the solicitation process follows relevant rules and regulations; ensures that the source selection process is fair, objective and transparent and that it follows the general principles as set forth in the UNRWA Procurement Framework; advises requisitioning units and recipient entities on the full range of procurement issues, providing support and guidance at all stages of the procurement cycle. Contributes to the development and implementation of sourcing strategies mainly for Information and communication Technology (ICT) services and equipment in consultation with programs at headquarters and field offices. Proposes strategies and designs innovative solutions to resolve issues/conflicts for complex procurement projects; establishes and maintains work program and schedule for ongoing contracts and newly planned ones. Establishes negotiation strategies, conducts all phases of negotiations with suppliers and other concerned parties, including disputes arising from contracts; signs procurement orders up to the authorized limit; quality assures submissions from both field offices and HQs to the Headquarters Committee on Procurement (HCP), and submits cases exceeding signature authority for review and approval. Conducts market research to keep abreast of market developments and procurement best practices; researches and analyzes market reports, production patterns and availability of goods and services; identifies new technologies and products/services; evaluates and recommends potential supply sources and participates in the incorporation of research results into the procurement program. Oversees adherence to contractual agreements; recommends amendments or extensions; advises on contractual rights and obligations, and prepares procurement-related documents, including contracts, communications, reports, and guidelines. Manages the ICT procurement team ensuring that workload is distributed equitably and that the team does meticulous filing; closes Purchase Orders (Pos) that are open past expiry date; monitors bank guarantees and records savings made. In coordination with Chief, Central Support Services Division (CCSSD): - Contributes to enhancing vendor's performance management and developing partnerships with suppliers to support UNRWA's programs. Enhances supplier performance evaluation processes by developing and implementing metrics, conducting regular assessments, and working with vendors to address deficiencies. Builds strong relationships with suppliers to ensure they consistently meet contractual obligations and align with the organization's strategic goals. Supports emergency field procurement by executing rapid and efficient processes under high-pressure conditions to meet urgent needs. Assesses immediate requirements, sourcing critical supplies, negotiating contracts on tight deadlines, and overcoming logistical challenges in remote or volatile regions, all while ensuring compliance with operational standards. Provides immediate support to the fields through rapid deployment to ensure the effective delivery of humanitarian aid. Works closely with field offices procurement teams and other stakeholders to develop and execute response plans, including managing logistics, distribution of resources, and monitoring supplies. CompetenciesUN Core Values of Integrity, Professionalism and Respect for Diversity, and Core Competencies of Communication, Working with People and Drive for Results apply by default. Default managerial competencies may apply. - Applying Technical Expertise - Deciding and Initiating Action - Relating and Networking - Coping with Pressure and Setbacks - Planning and Organizing -T horough understanding of emergency procurement and the ability to perform under stress are essential. For guidance on how to prepare for competency-based interviews: https://careers.un. org/lbw/home.aspx?viewtype=AYI EducationAn advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) from an accredited educational institution in business administration, public administration, procurement, supply chain management, commerce, engineering, contract law, Information and communication Technology (ICT) or a related field. A first-level degree from an accredited educational institution in one of the aforementioned disciplines, combined with an additional two years of relevant work experience, may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree. Job - Specific QualificationNot available. Work ExperienceAn advanced university degree (master's degree or equivalent) from an accredited educational institution in business administration, public administration, procurement, supply chain management, commerce, engineering, contract law, Information and communication Technology (ICT) or a related field is required. A first-level degree from an accredited educational institution in one of the aforementioned disciplines, combined with an additional two years of relevant work experience, may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree is required. At least five years of progressively responsible relevant work experience in procurement, contract management, contract administration and logistics and supply chain management is required. Two years of work experience directly related to first-hand procurement or contracting is required. Unless already serving as an international staff member in the UN Common System, at least two continuous years of relevant international experience outside UNRWA and outside the country(s) of citizenship is required. Candidates are required to make a declaration as to whether they have any current or past affiliations with non-governmental organisations, academic institutions, political organisations, military, or have/are engaged in activities or have made any public statements, that could be seen to impact their neutrality, objectivity or independence in the performance of their duties for the UN / UNRWA. Any declaration will not necessarily disqualify candidates from consideration for this post. Experience in conducting procurement at the international level for an intergovernmental organization, governmental organization, or a large multi-national organization is desirable. Experience in the procurement of ICT goods and services. Experience in Procurement for infrastructure projects and consultancy services is desirable. Experience in providing support services to Field Offices under humanitarian, development, or conflict context is desirable. Experience in the supply chain modules in ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system and experience in all phases of procurement in a high-volume procurement operation is desirable. LanguagesEnglish and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this job opening, English is required. Arabic is desirable. The table below shows the minimum required level for each skill in these languages, according to the UN Language Framework (please consult https://languages.un.org for details).