Logistics and Procurement Specialist

Mission and objectivesFounded in 1948, WHO is the United Nations agency that connects nations, partners and people to promote health, keep the world safe and serve the vulnerable – so everyone, everywhere can attain the highest level of health.

ContextThis United Nations Volunteers (UNV) assignment is part of Pandemic Fund project, which is implementing by WHO Country Office in Kazakhstan. The COVID-19 pandemic emphasized the necessity in Kazakhstan to enhance all core capacities of International Health Regulations to reduce the risks of future outbreaks. The Pandemic Fund grant addresses critical challenges in Kazakhstan’s public health system, particularly in epidemiological surveillance, border control (it shares extensive borders with China, Kyrgyz Republic, Russia, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan), laboratory safety, early detection and response, and staff training. The Strengthening the National Capacity for Pandemic Preparedness and Response to Infectious Disease Outbreaks Project brings together a collaboration across government ministries, partners, and civil society groups, led by the Ministry of Health (MOH). As the Project’s Implementing Entity (IE), WHO work closely with MOH technical working groups to achieve the Project’s objectives, including the National Centre of Expertise (NCE) of the Committee of Sanitary and Epidemiological Control and the Scientific and Practical Center for Sanitary and Epidemiological Expertise and Monitoring (SPCSEEM).

Task DescriptionWithin the delegated authority and under the supervision of Head of Department or his/her designated mandated representative(s), the UNV Logistics and Procurement Specialist will: • Identify the proper procurement method and potential suppliers in procurement. • Conduct market research and identify qualified suppliers and contractors for laboratory renovation works. • Issue offers solicitations, communicate and negotiate with suppliers when needed. • Evaluate and analyze the received offers and recommend the awarded suppliers. • Prepare technical evaluation committee report when needed as requested by supervisor. • Communicate with specialized units to get the procurement technical/admin approvals. • Prepare all relevant procurement documents such as adjudication reports, analysis sheet with recommendations and checklist for review and approval of supervisor. • Generate procurement reports and briefings on the status of all transactions for the review of the supervisor. Initiate correspondence to verify data, answer queries, alert supervisor/technical units of any gaps in the transactions and recommend solutions. • Act as a backup for customs clearance and logistical arrangements for importing goods. • Supervise and monitor laboratory renovation works to ensure quality, safety, timelines, and budget compliance; support project development stages, including needs assessment, budgeting, scheduling, and risk identification. • Track progress of renovation activities and propose corrective actions when needed. • Support financial tracking of procurement and renovation expenditures and ensure proper documentation; coordinate with programme, technical, and finance teams to ensure alignment with project objectives. • Prepare progress updates, reports, and documentation related to procurement and renovation activities. • Support handover, acceptance, and closure of renovation works and related contracts. • Any other related tasks as may be required or assigned by the supervisor.

Competencies and values• Commitment to Continuous Learning • Communication • Ethics and Values • Integrity • Planning and Organizing • Professionalism • Respect for Diversity • Working in Teams • Creativity

Living conditions and remarksAstana, the capital city of Kazakhstan, is a modern and rapidly developing urban center known for its unique and futuristic architecture. The city offers a high standard of living with access to various amenities including shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational facilities. The climate is characterized by cold winters and hot summers, so appropriate clothing is necessary. Public transportation is well-developed, making it easy to navigate the city. Healthcare services in Astana are of a high standard, and there are several international schools and cultural institutions. Overall, Astana provides a comfortable and vibrant living environment for international staff and volunteers. National UN Volunteers Specialists receive USD 1173/month as their Volunteer Living Allowance in Kazakhstan. Other benefits include: • Pre-assignment Entry lump sum - USD 400 (one time payment) • Learning - Access to UNV's learning and career development resources • Annual leave - 2.5 days per month • Insurance - Private insurance: Health, dental, life and dismemberment (100%) coverage by CIGNA • Exit allowance (paid on successful completion of the assignment) The above summary is provided as information only and is subject to change. For further information on the full range of entitlements and eligibility criteria, please read the UN Volunteer Conditions of Service at https://explore.unv.org/cos You can also check full entitlements at the duty station FYI at https://app.unv.org/calculator