Supply Associate, GS 6, Abuja - TA (364 days) at UNICEF

The Supply Associate performs highly skilled work on UNICEF supply chains, and manages the more complex cases and client requests, which frequently requires the evaluation of difficult situations and adaptation of procedures and processes to resolve such cases. This is the senior GS level for specialized supply chain work and requires advanced specialized knowledge acquired through formal training and experience. The function is characterized as highly independent and provides opportunities for Associates to lead and carry out responsibility for end to end supply chain management from the beginning to the end of the process and provide input into the design and development of improved supply chain services and delivery mechanisms. The incumbent may supervise lower-level GS staff.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

Below is a summary of key functions and accountabilities.

• In consultation with supervisor, provide input to the Plan of Operations and Annual Work Plans. Participate in the forecasting, planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the construction portfolio.
•  Provide input to the annual construction plan. Conduct data review and analysis for category management of construction materials. Conduct market research in relevant areas for UNICEF and advice on best approaches to obtain best value for money and sustainable procurement.
•  Liaise with clients in planning procurement and contracting initiatives, supporting development of appropriate specifications, terms of reference, and timelines. Take into account opportunities to strengthen sustainability of supply chains.
• Where appropriate, establish Long-term Arrangements (LTAs) and act on specific procurement requisitions as might be required.
• Prepare and process Request for Quotations (RFQs), Invitations to Bid (ITBs) and Requests for Proposals (RFPs), as might be requested by the Supervisor.
• Organize bid openings and conduct technical and financial analysis of offers as might be required. Conduct clarifications and negotiations with suppliers with support from the supervisor. Maintain highest level of integrity, ethical standards and accountability in the procurement of goods, contracting of services and construction work.
• Prepare requests for award including submissions to Contract Review Committee. Prepare purchase orders and contracts in SAP (ERP – Enterprise Resource Planning system), and submit for relevant approvals, ensuring completeness of documentation in UNICEF systems.
• Collate data and share with supervisor to keep management informed on progress and provide inputs to KPI’s and performance monitoring mechanisms.
• Liaise with suppliers, ensuring timely follow-up on delivery schedules. Implement appropriate vendor management practices e.g. supply performance reviews.
• Ensure appropriate filing of procurement cases and maintain up to date records for future reference including for audit.
• And other duties, as assigned by the supervisor.
• To qualify as an advocate for every child you will have…

Education:

• A university degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration or Contract/commercial law. An added advantage will be experience in contracting for construction and engineering services.

Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years of relevant administrative experience in supply chain management or a construction context is required. Understanding of development and emergency /humanitarian work is an added advantage.

Skills:

• Thorough knowledge of a range of specialized topics, including the relevant supply chain policies, partnership mechanisms, rules and regulations.
• Ability to establish priorities and plan his/her own work and plan, coordinate and monitor the work of those under his/her supervision.
• High level of proficiency or skill is required in the interpretation and application of specialized rules and regulations to the circumstances of complex individual cases.
• Experience using MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and other UNICEF office tools.
• Demonstrated understanding of the relevant supply chain processes and ability to consistently apply relevant policies, procedures and good practices in the daily work. Good judgement in order to handle complex cases including considerations for exceptions.
• Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with clients, suppliers and colleagues and gain the assistance and cooperation of others in a team endeavor.
• Ability to use supply related modules within UNICEF ERP system.
• Ability to draft clear and concise reports or rationale for supply related decisions on key issues.

Language Requirements:

Fluency in English is required. Knowledge of another official UN language or a local language is an asset.