The World Health Organization is a specialized agency of the United Nations that is concerned with international public health. It was established on 7 April 1948, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

In the context of WHO Health Emergencies Preparedness and Response (EPR), at the hub level, the Procurement Officer will support the effective delivery and implementation of strategic and effective procurement services that reflect best practices in international public procurement and compliance with WHO procurement policy, regulations, and procedures and in full compliance with WHO emergency Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

Under the direct supervision of the Procurement Officer Lead, the incumbent is assigned all or part of the following duties:

• Plan procurement actions involving analysis of a variety of contracting issues and /or identification of optional courses of action.
• Analyze and evaluate information regarding vendor’s performance as regards quality, prices, delivery, and equipment concerning the organization’s requirements.
• Support the preparation and distribution of invitations for bids and requests for quotations to qualified suppliers. Review offers and provide input on contract awards in compliance with the WHO standards, policies, and procedures.
• Support the evaluation and negotiation with suppliers to ascertain their commitment and ability to meet specific requirements and accept new contracts.
• Track and update the suppliers’ database, prepare suppliers’ performance evaluations, and identify and take appropriate action regarding suppliers who repeatedly fail to comply with the terms and conditions of their contracts.
• Draft audit responses, review, and follow- up on any outstanding audit recommendations related to the procurement of goods or services.
• Work closely with the Global Service Center (GSC), Regional Office, and HQ Procurement Teams to follow up on shipments, provide updates on delivery status or delays; resolve any outstanding issues.
• Provide notice of shipment to consignees; prepare claims for lost, damaged, or incorrect shipments and assist in obtaining settlements as necessary; coordinate the resolution of claim issues with suppliers concerning their non-compliance with contractual terms and conditions.
• Set up and maintain an appropriate documentation and archiving system to allow easy retrieval and use of purchase authorization/purchase orders and reports received.
• Assist technical staff and requisitioning officers regarding technical specifications for services procurement; provide advice regarding relevant templates, approaches, and policies.
• Prepare and conduct e-tender exercises for establishing LTAs. Review offers and provide input on contract awards in compliance with the WHO standards, policies, and procedures.
• After having checked their quality, publish tender documents on the United Nations Global Marketplace (UNGM).
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education

Essential: First university degree in public procurement, logistics, business or public administration, management or other related fields closely related to the position from an accredited/recognized institution.

Desirable:

• Certified training in procurement (CIPS or equivalent).

Experience

Essential: At least two (2) years’ experience in procurement or any other fields closely related to the position, preferably in an international organization.

Desirable:

• Experience in procurement of goods or services in line with WHO requirements.
• Experience using Oracle Enterprise Resource Planning or similar packages.

Skills

• Strong skills and knowledge of best practices of services procurement
• Strong interpersonal skills to work with people across the organization, ability to instil confidence, negotiate, and implement change.
• Demonstrated ability to act independently and exercise sound judgment.
• Ability to work closely with international officials at all levels
• Strong analytical skills
• Good knowledge of Microsoft Excell.

WHO Competencies

•   Teamwork
•   Respecting and promoting individual and cultural differences
•   Communication
•   Moving forward in a changing environment

Use of Language Skills

Essential: Expert knowledge of English.

Knowledge of another UN official language would be an asset

Other Skills (e.g., IT)

• Thorough knowledge in supply operations and procurement services.
• Demonstrate ability to act independently and exercise sound judgment.
• Effective communication and negotiation skills.
• Very good organizational skills, ability to meet deadlines.
• Sound skills in utilizing Oracle Enterprise Resource Planning or similar packages.
• Knowledgeable in Office applications, including Excel, PowerPoint, and Word