The objective of the assignment is to provide Procurement Services both technical and operational, in relation to the project. As a member of the Procurement Unit and the SIDA Project Team, the Procurement Specialist (PS) is required to proactively work with all relevant personnel, to ensure the successful delivery of project outputs and project development objectives.

Scope of the Assignment

The Project Procurement Specialist (PS) shall be responsible for the following:

• In consultation with implementing departments of the Commission, prepare, update, implement and monitor the Project Procurement Plan;
• Undertake the procurement of goods and services in accordance with AUC guidelines and policies as stipulated in the Project Agreement.
• Review specifications and Terms of Reference (ToRs) to ensure completeness, accuracy and compliance with AUC regulations and assist during contract negotiations;
• Prepare bid documents required to facilitate procurement operations, including requests for quotation, requests for Expressions of Interest, Procurement Notices, Bidding documents, Tender Evaluation Reports, contracts and other related documents;
• Participate in the evaluation of proposals and related task on the Project, as may be required by the AU-IBAR and in accordance with AUC Procurement Policies, Manuals and Guidelines;
• Draft, negotiate and finalize all types of contractual correspondence and documents;
• Carry out regular market assessments to maintain accurate knowledge of market prices for most common goods and services;
• Develop tools for capturing procurement data and identifying progress towards the achievement of procurement schedules, including updating and maintaining procurement records and filing system in accordance with AU policy;
• Provide procurement advice to the Project Team and ensure the compliance of internal control requirements by team members;
• Expeditiously follow up supply of goods and services and forward certified invoices to Accounts for prompt payment;
• Prepare minutes and reports of Procurement Committee meetings;
• Perform any other related procurement activities as may be requested by the Director of AU-IBAR.

Qualifications and Experience Requirements for the Consultant

The ideal candidate should have:

• A minimum of Master’s Degree in, Project Planning & Management, Procurement or Supply Chain Management, Finance and Accounting or Public Administration, Business Administration or Law or any other relevant field including training in procurement or related subject, or equivalent by experience;
• Good knowledge of standard procurement methods and procedures following UNCITRAL model / Public Procurement disciplines. Specific knowledge and experience in the AUC procurement procedures will be a distinct requirement;
• At least 5 years of relevant work experience in Procurement, Logistics or Service Delivery;
• Understanding of basic procurement principles. Understanding of AUC procurement procedures and documentation would be an added advantage;
• Record of familiarization of institutions and mandates, procurement procedures and documentation of AU-IBAR, AUC or RECs would be an added advantage;
• Good knowledge of procurement processes, challenges and lessons on the continent
• Proficiency in at least one of the AU working languages (English, French, Arabic and Portuguese) is a must (oral and written);
• Teamwork: Demonstrated ability to work in a multicultural environment and good interpersonal skills;
• Proficiency in using the Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) including excellent web navigation skills;
• Excellent analytical skills and report writing.