JOB DESCRIPTION

B

Family

Family

NOB

National Professional Officer

Reason

Regular > Regular Assignment

2025-09-15

August 26, 2025

Associate Supply Officer

Organizational Setting and Work Relationships
The Associate Supply Officer supports all activities pertaining to the supply chain function including planning, sourcing, transport, shipping, customs clearance and warehousing management within the Area of Responsibility (AoR). The position may be located at Headquarters (within DESS), in a Regional Bureau or in a Country Office.

The incumbent is normally supervised by the (Senior) Supply Officer or other senior staff with supply oversight function who defines the objectives and provides general guidance. S/he will also refer to UNHCR manuals and relevant policy papers. The incumbent normally supervises some staff and/or AWF.
In Bureaus and country operations s/he maintains regular contacts on working level with other UN agencies, UNHCR Partners, NGOs, government partners and commercial contractors in the area of operation.

S/he will support effective supply chain that enables the office to meet the needs of persons of concerns as well as timely delivery of quality goods and services to persons of concern. Further, the incumbent will assist in the maintenance of a supply chain infrastructure that is robust and flexible enough to accommodate the needs of the operation and that enables timely emergency responses, along with effective partners to support supply activities.

The Associate Supply Officer maintains impartial, ethical and customer-oriented relations with suppliers and Partner organizations; exchanges information with counterparts in other UN agencies, and International Organisations within the limits established by UN /UNHCR Procurements Rules and assists with joint procurement actions if, as and whenever necessary.

The incumbent will support the coordination of the delivery of assistance from the regional warehouse, if applicable. S/he will liaise with SMS staff who manage the Global Stockpiles and who manage the Global Asset and Fleet Management, if and as required and if applicable.

All UNHCR staff members are accountable to perform their duties as reflected in their job description. They do so within their delegated authorities, in line with the regulatory framework of UNHCR which includes the UN Charter, UN Staff Regulations and Rules, UNHCR Policies and Administrative Instructions as well as relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, staff members are required to discharge their responsibilities in a manner consistent with the core, functional, cross-functional and managerial competencies and UNHCR’s core values of professionalism, integrity and respect for diversity.

Duties
– Support all activities pertaining to the supply chain function including planning, sourcing, transport, shipping, customs clearance, warehousing, asset and fleet management, as applicable.
– Support the procurement process to ensure timely, cost-effective and adequate delivery of commodities and services to support operational needs.
– Identify partners for supply chain projects based on objectives, priorities, strengths and resources of the UNHCR Partner and/or contractor, according to criteria consistent with UNHCR rules and regulations.
– Develop relevant contacts and build constructive relations with UN agencies, UNHCR Partners, government authorities and other partners as applicable.
– Ensure accurate and comprehensive records on supply activities and provide timely reports and updates both periodically and on request.
– Manage the vendor related processes including identification, assessment and selection of vendors based on their capability for delivering commodities and services. Ensure vendor and item master databases are up to date.
– Oversee tender processes and manage the preparation of proposals for award of contracts to the relevant CoCs.
– Ensure the quality standards for commodities and services are respected by vendors in relation to the needs of the location and tender/purchase specifications.
– Prepare plans for delivery of relief and other non-food items according to the operational needs and regularly update the information in UNHCR IT systems.
– Apply UNHCR’s sourcing and procurement strategy when planning for purchase of important commodities and services.
– Ensure timely customs clearance of consignments and establishment & maintenance of warehousing according to “best practices” and UNHCR rules and regulations.
– Manage an efficient system for the release, and redeployment of goods.
– Oversee and coordinate as required the release and transportation and of relief and other non-food items.
– Monitor the quality and accuracy of supply chain related data in relevant business systems. Compile and analyse statistical information, identify trends and developments in supply chain related matters that will assist in decision making
– Implement supply operations based on interpretations of the situation and conclusions to how the operation can be best implemented.
– Resolve difficulties in the local supply chain by finding solutions to problems and bottlenecks, and provide regular reports on supply chain activities, the status of requests and the availability of items in the supply chain.
– Disseminate, promote commitment to and monitor compliance with UNHCR’s global policies, standards and guidance on supply chain management.

– Support effective information flow in the supply chain and adapt process and documents to the prevailing environment.

In the Regional Bureaux:
– Support Country Operations in implementing supply operations based on interpretations of the situation and conclusions to how the operation can be best implemented particularly in emergency context.
– Assist country operations achieving full compliance with rules & regulations in all supply activities.
– Track the progress of specific periodic operations and provide guidance that ensures timely implementation.
– Facilitate training of supply staff and assist in coaching and advising individuals or Supply teams as requested.
– Track global Supply KPIs for the region and devise regional ones as required.
– Monitor all periodic Supply exercises such as monthly reconciliations, quarterly physical inventory exercises, and year-end accounts closure procedures and ensure that they are implemented throughout the region and provide relevant reports to senior managers.
– Support the analysis of country financial reports and work with the Country Operations Supply Team leaders to address red areas relating to Supply aspects of operations.
– Support the country needs assessment plans and assist in combining them into regional procurement plans and monitor their timely implementation and changes based on operational needs.

In the Country Operations:
– Adapt standard supply chain structures to the local environment that are consistent with the operational needs.
– Assist the office should they need additional office space or extensions to their office leases, lease hold improvements or other construction. Carry out the procurement aspect of the establishment of office leases or extensions.
– Assist in the coordination with CBI stakeholders the design and implementation of the market assessment and market monitoring to determine if CBI is option. Carry out the procurement action to contract Financial Service Providers (FSP).
– Support the establishment and maintenance of an efficient and skilled workforce that is capable of supporting on-going operations.
– Support the identification of partners for supply chain projects based on objectives, priorities, strengths and resources of the Partner and/or contractor, according to criteria consistent with UNHCR rules and regulations.
– Implement effective asset and fleet management that regularly monitors the asset/fleet pool, increases efficiency safeguards the investment of the organisation.
– Support the coordination activities of Partners and/or contractors performing supply related activities, and ensure that they understand and adhere to relevant UNHCR rules and procedures.
– Maintain an up-to-date overview of the location’s supply chain capacity and preparedness, as well as, that of its partners to ensure that adequate capacity exist also to cover emergencies.
– Depending on the size of the operation act as ex-officio in the LCC Review and clear procurement cases for the relevant procurement authority.

– Support the identification and management of risks and seek to seize opportunities impacting objectives in the area of responsibility. Ensure decision making in risk based in the functional area of work. Raise risks, issues and concerns to a supervisor or to relevant functional colleague(s).
– Perform other related duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications
Education & Professional Work Experience
Years of Experience / Degree Level
For P2/NOB – 3 years relevant experience with Undergraduate degree; or 2 years relevant experience with Graduate degree; or 1 year relevant experience with Doctorate degree

Field(s) of Education
Supply Chain Management; Business Administration; International Commerce; Engineering;
or other relevant field.

Certificates and/or Licenses
Certificate from Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supplies, e.g. CFIPS, CMIPS, MCIPS;
(Certificates and Licenses marked with an asterisk* are essential)

Relevant Job Experience
Essential
Proficient knowledge of logistics/supply systems with proven experience at previous work positions, preferably UN. Good working knowledge and experience in handling contract issues in the context of UN policies and standards. Experience in contract negotiations; ability to provide technical guidance to subordinate staff; ability to plan and organise work assignments, often under close deadlines. Proven ability to deal with multiple tasks with speed, in a courteous and service oriented manner.
Desirable
Database management skills and experience and working knowledge of ERP systems, ideally of UNHCR’s MSRP Supply Chain Module would be an advantage. Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills to deal with persons of different cultural and educational backgrounds. Technical knowledge of types of services, supplies and goods purchased by UNHCR for Headquarters, Regional and Field Offices would be an advantage. Relevant training, such as CIPS, or other public procurement trainings. Knowledge of UN and UNHCR Financial Regulations and Rules relating to procurement and UNHCR Chapter 8. Aviation services knowledge for movements of goods/passengers. Proven ability to manage a team.

Functional Skills
SC-PeopleSoft Supply Chain Management
SC-Supply Planning
SC-Warehouse Management
SC-Asset Management
SC-Fleet Management
UN-UN/UNHCR Administrative Rules, Regulations and Procedures
SC-UN/UNHCR Procurement Rules and Procedures
IT-Computer Literacy
SC-Customs clearance
SC-Logistics
(Functional Skills marked with an asterisk* are essential)

Language Requirements
For International Professional and Field Service jobs: Knowledge of English and UN working language of the duty station if not English.
For National Professional jobs: Knowledge of English and UN working language of the duty station if not English and local language.
For General Service jobs: Knowledge of English and/or UN working language of the duty station if not English.

All UNHCR workforce members must individually and collectively, contribute towards a working environment where each person feels safe, and empowered to perform their duties. This includes by demonstrating no tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment including sexual harassment, sexism, gender inequality, discrimination and abuse of power.

As individuals and as managers, all must be proactive in preventing and responding to inappropriate conduct, support ongoing dialogue on these matters and speaking up and seeking guidance and support from relevant UNHCR resources when these issues arise.

This is a Standard Job Description for all UNHCR jobs with this job title and grade level. The Operational Context may contain additional essential and/or desirable qualifications relating to the specific operation and/or position. Any such requirements are incorporated by reference in this Job Description and will be considered for the screening, shortlisting and selection of candidates.

The desired candidate must know the role and importance of the United Nations Procurement network as well as the advantage of BOS (Business Oversight Strategy). S/He must possess database management skills and experience and working knowledge in UNHCR’s Cloud ERP, ideally in Supply Chain and Finance Module would be an advantage. Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills to deal with persons of different cultural and educational backgrounds, technical knowledge of types of services, and goods purchased by UNHCR by Headquarters, Regional and Field Offices. Experience in conducting supply chain management training, or other public procurement trainings. Knowledge of UN and UNHCR Financial Rules and Regulations relating to procurement and UNHCR Chapter 8. Proven ability to collaborate with partners, suppliers and local authorities as well as other UN sister agencies. Excellent skills in planning and organization of activities. Proven ability for critical and analytical thinking and experience or background in management or as a supervisor is an advantage. Previous work experience in a similar position. Work experience with a UNHCR is highly desired. Knowledge of local languages is an asset

Portuguese

,

English

,

,

,

Operational context

Occupational Safety and Health Considerations:

To view occupational safety and health considerations for this duty station, please visit this link: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel

Nature of Position:

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is an international organization with the mandate to assist persons in need of international protection; asylum seekers; refugees; stateless persons; and internally displaced persons. The UNHCR operation in Mozambique has its main office in Maputo, a sub-office in Pemba, a field office in Nampula, and two field units in Cabo Delgado. The working language of the UNHCR offices in Mozambique is English.

The Associate Supply Officer position is based in Maputo and will report to the Assistant Representative-Ops who defines the objectives and provides general guidance.

S/he will also refer to UNHCR manuals and relevant policy papers. The incumbent will be responsible for the operation wide supply oversight. He /She will need to maintain regular contacts at working level with other UN agencies, UNHCR Partners, NGOs, government partners and commercial contractors in operation.

The Associate Supply Officer will coordinate the inventory and warehouse management in Pemba and Nampula. S/he will ensure the good collaboration between UNHCR and Ministry of Foreign affairs and relevant local tax authorities to facilitate the import/export of UNHCR materials and equipment as well as the Core Relief Items.

The Associate Supply officer will lead and guide procurement activities, in compliance with applicable rules and administrative instructions, and support all LCC submissions and onward contracting and filing across different suppliers/service providers.​

Living and Working Conditions:

The position is based in Maputo, the capital of Mozambique, located in the south of the country. Maputo is an A, family duty-station. According to the latest United Nations data, the current population of Mozambique is estimated at 34 million as of mid-2023. This is equivalent to 0.42% of the total world population. The population density in Mozambique is 43 people per square kilometer2. The largest city and capital is Maputo, with a population of 1.2 million. Mozambique is a large country in Southeast Africa, with an area of 801,590 sq km. It has a tropical climate, with two main seasons: a wet season from October to March, and a dry season from May to August. The wet season can bring heavy rains and cyclones, especially in the coastal areas. The dry season is generally sunny and pleasant, but sometimes cold air masses from South Africa can lower the temperature and average daily temperature ranging from 13 °C to 24 °C.

Maputo is a B, Family duty-station where the security level is considered low (2). The security situation in the Southern area is relatively calm, the biggest concern being criminality in the main urban centers of Maputo, Matola, Xai-Xai and Inhambane cities. Floods occur every two to three years, with higher levels of risk in the southern provinces. Seasonal rains (November to April) and the lack of drainage infrastructure to accommodate stormwater runoff often leads to flash floods. Traffic accidents are common in Mozambique due to the poor condition of the roads and poor driving and vehicle standards.

The metical is the local currency and exchange rate stands at USD 1 equivalent to about 63.25 meticais (MZN) as per April 2025. There is a wide range of Banks and ATMs to meet financial needs. Credit/debit cards are accepted in most places.

The public healthcare system in Mozambique is basic and limited. Private clinics can be found in Maputo and other larger cities in Mozambique. Mozambique lies in a malaria zone, so the necessary precautions should be taken: Avoiding mosquito bites by using nets, candles and sprays is recommended. Vaccinations for diphtheria, hepatitis A, tetanus and typhoid are recommended. Tap water in Mozambique is not safe to drink, so bottled or boiled water should be used instead. Communication and transport services are available at various costs. The housing market is healthy but quite expensive, with a wide selection of apartments and houses for rent. Apartments can be rented around 1300-1600 USD per month.

Maputo has several open food markets and several large supermarkets that sell food, clothing, and household goods at reasonable prices. There are cinemas, several bars and discotheques for entertainment. Maputo is only two to three hours’ drive away from Swaziland (Mbabane) and South Africa (Nelspruit).

Additional Qualifications

Skills

Bachelor of Arts: Business Administration, Bachelor of Arts: Engineering, Bachelor of Arts: Logistics, Bachelor of Arts: Marketing, Bachelor of Arts: Mathematics

Certifications

Institute of Purchasing and Supply – Other

Competencies

Accountability, Analytical thinking, Client & results orientation, Commitment to continuous learning, Communication, Empowering & building trust, Judgement & decision making, Managing performance, Organizational awareness, Planning & organizing, Stakeholder management, Teamwork & collaboration

https://icsc.un.org/Home/SalaryScales

Compendium

Additional Information

This position doesn”t require a functional clearance