Project Procurement Expert at African Union - InterAfrican Bureau for Animal Resources

The Consultant shall be responsible for the following:

• Provide support in the management of end – to – end procurement activities from planning to contract award.
• Assist in developing, executing, and administering complex procurements for diverse works, goods and services in accordance with African Union Regulations and internally accepted standards and procedures.
• Provide procurement expert advice on wide ranging and complex technical and other issues relating to institutional procurement.
• In consultation with Business Units, reviews the type of work, goods and services required and recommends appropriate procurement strategy and methods.
• Monitor and track the Implementation of the Annual Procurement Plan in close collaboration with Business Units.
• Provide advice and guidance to Business Units concerning development of specifications for acquisition of goods or related services including preparation of price estimates on procurement requests for non-standard items.
• Conduct market research and analysis to inform procurement decisions.
• Collaborate with Business Units to facilitate smooth procurement operations.
• Prepare solicitation documents for goods, work and services to be procured using appropriate methodologies.
• Carry out the procurement process, including pre-bidding conference, evaluation of bids, post-qualification and recommendation for award in line with African Union’s Procurement procedures.
• Prepare and present procurement cases to the relevant authorities for approval.
• Coordinate contract negotiations, ensuring adherence to the procurement policies and obtaining value for money.
• Monitor supplier performance and contract compliance, addressing any issues proactively.
• Track orders to ensure prompt delivery of services.
• Provide input on periodic reports and statistics on procurement activities such as purchase orders.
• Provide technical support in preparation and conducting procurement training on procurement techniques, processes and systems for AU- IBAR staff.
• Identify and manage procurement risk in the procurement cycle.
• Liaise with external stakeholders, including donors, and international partners, on procurement-related matters to ensure compliance with applicable rules and procedures.
• Perform any other relevant duty/ responsibility assigned by the Supervisor.

Qualifications and Experience Requirements for the Consultant

The ideal candidate should have:

• A minimum of a Master’s Degree in 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 7 years of relevant work experience in Procurement, Logistics, Warehousing or Supply Chain management.
• Understanding of fundamental procurement principles. Understanding of EU and 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.
• Teamwork: Demonstrated ability to work in a multicultural environment and good interpersonal skills.