Procurement and Supply Chain Management Specialist at UNDP: A Comprehensive Overview of the Role and Impact in Nepal

April 4, 2025

13 minutes read

Sure! Here’s a simplified and clear explanation of the Procurement and Supply Chain Management Specialist role with UNDP in Kathmandu, Nepal:

🔹 Overview of the Jobhttp://@vacancyspaces.com

This is a full-time, fixed-term position at P3 level, under UNDP’s Global Fund Programme in Nepal. The main goal is to manage and strengthen procurement and supply chain systems—especially for health products (like medicines, diagnostics, lab supplies)—while ensuring compliance with both UNDP rules and Global Fund standards.

🔹 Key Responsibilities

🛒 Procurement and Supply Chain Managementhttp://Procurement and Supply Chain Management Specialist – UNDP Nepal

Lead procurement of health and non-health products.
Ensure quality, timely, and cost-effective delivery of goods.
Prevent stockouts or wastage of medical supplies.
Work with international procurement agents like the Global Drug Facility.
Use tools like UNALL and Quantum for procurement processes.

📦 Supply Chain Strengthening

Make sure the supply chain works all the way to the “last mile” (i.e., reaching the community).
Support national partners in improving systems for stock tracking and distribution.
Help develop and maintain Logistics Management Information Systems (LMIS).

🔍 Monitoring & Compliance

Monitor procurement plans and update them regularly.
Ensure alignment with Global Fund’s Quality Assurance Policies.
Prepare for and participate in audits; ensure follow-up on any recommendations.

👥 Stakeholder Engagement & Coordination

Collaborate with:
- Ministry of Health and Population
- Civil Society Organizations (CSOs)
- UN agencies
- Global Fund technical teams
Help align procurement plans with national health goals.

Train project and national staff on procurement policies and systems.
Document lessons learned and best practices to improve future processes.

Ensure inclusive procurement practices that are gender-sensitive and socially inclusive.
Promote “Do No Harm” approaches in all program activities.

🔹 Team Leadership

Supervise a team of 11: including 6 thematic experts, 5 support staff, and external consultants.

🔹 Qualifications

✅ Education

Master’s degree (preferred) in Business Administration, Procurement, Engineering, Law, etc.
OR Bachelor’s degree + 2 extra years of experience.
CIPS Level 4 certification is a strong asset (can be obtained within a year of hiring).

✅ Experience

5+ years (with Master’s) or 7+ years (with Bachelor’s) in procurement and supply chain.
Experience in:
- UN or Global Fund environments
- Health product procurement
- Using ERP systems
- Report writing
- Applying GESI in supply chain

✅ Language

Fluent in English (oral and written)

🔹 Contract Info

Initial 1-year contract, with possibility of extension.
Mobility required—so expect occasional travel or fieldwork.

Would you like a tailored CV or cover letter for this position? Or help preparing for the interview if you get shortlisted?

Absolutely! Below is a detailed, in-depth explanation of the Procurement and Supply Chain Management Specialist role with UNDP in Kathmandu, Nepal. The explanation covers all the elements of the job description and expands on the key responsibilities, organizational context, strategic alignment, technical requirements, and career development aspects. The word count will exceed 3,000 words to meet your request.

UNDP Procurement and Supply Chain Management Specialist — In-Depth Role Explanation

1. Organizational Context and Background

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the United Nations’ global development arm that operates in over 170 countries and territories, supporting countries to eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities, and promote sustainable development. UNDP’s mandate is deeply rooted in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with a focus on empowering nations to find their own solutions to development challenges.

In the health sector, UNDP plays a unique role as both a development partner and an operational service provider, especially in challenging environments. One of its key partnerships is with The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (Global Fund). UNDP has served as a Principal Recipient (PR) and technical partner for Global Fund grants in countries with limited capacity or high risk, contributing to health system strengthening, procurement of life-saving commodities, and ensuring last-mile delivery of health services.

In Nepal, UNDP has been entrusted with the Global Fund Grant Cycle 7 (GC7) implementation as a co-Principal Recipient. For this purpose, UNDP has set up a Programme Management Unit (PMU) responsible for the implementation, oversight, and accountability of the grant. The Procurement and Supply Chain Management Specialist plays a key role in ensuring that goods and services, especially health products, are efficiently procured, stored, distributed, and tracked.

2. Role Overview: Strategic Importance

The Procurement and Supply Chain Management Specialist is a strategic and technical leadership position within the PMU. This role ensures that the procurement and supply chain operations are aligned with both UNDP’s procurement policies and the Global Fund’s quality assurance and delivery standards.

This position contributes directly to:

Ensuring a continuous supply of quality health products.
Reducing procurement bottlenecks.
Strengthening national systems for sustainable development.
Enhancing health outcomes by enabling uninterrupted treatment access.

The role also supports the localization of development, helping national entities, such as the Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP), civil society organizations (CSOs), and NGOs, to enhance their supply chain management systems.

3. Scope of Responsibilities

The Procurement and Supply Chain Management Specialist has a broad mandate, covering both strategic and operational areas:

A. Procurement and Supply Chain Execution

Strategic Procurement Planning: Leads the development and execution of procurement strategies for health and non-health products. This includes:
- Preparing and updating Procurement Action Plans (PAPs).
- Conducting market surveys and cost-benefit analyses.
- Evaluating and selecting vendors through transparent and competitive processes.
Lifecycle Procurement Management: Oversees the end-to-end procurement process, including:
- Drafting tender documents.
- Managing bidding, evaluation, and contract awards.
- Monitoring delivery timelines and performance.
Health Product Supply Chain Oversight:
- Coordinates the quantification, forecasting, and ordering of health commodities (ARVs, anti-TB drugs, test kits, lab reagents, PPE, etc.).
- Oversees the supply chain performance from international shipment to last-mile delivery.
- Ensures that all health products adhere to the Global Fund Quality Assurance Policy.
Procurement Compliance:
- Ensures adherence to UNDP procurement rules, policies, and ethical standards.
- Implements internal controls to minimize fraud, waste, and abuse.
- Prepares for audits and implements corrective actions post-review.

B. Risk Management and Quality Assurance

Risk-Based Planning:
- Develops and implements a risk matrix for procurement activities.
- Identifies bottlenecks in supply chain functions and initiates solutions.
- Prevents stockouts, overstocking, or expiry of essential health commodities.
Vendor Management:
- Oversees supplier performance evaluations.
- Manages contracts, including renewals, amendments, and dispute resolutions.
Contract Monitoring:
- Sets up contract monitoring tools and dashboards.
- Ensures vendors meet performance standards and delivery obligations.

C. Coordination with Stakeholders

Partnership Building:
- Collaborates with key stakeholders including:
  - Ministry of Health and Population
  - Logistics Management Division (LMD)
  - National Disease Control Programs
  - Civil Society Organizations
  - UN Agencies (WHO, UNICEF, UNFPA, etc.)
Donor Engagement:
- Serves as the focal point for Global Fund’s PSM technical teams.
- Supports donor missions, reviews, and reporting.
National Capacity Building:
- Supports national partners in supply chain planning, LMIS, and procurement processes.
- Trains government counterparts and implementing partners on best practices.

D. System Strengthening and Technology

Information Systems:
- Works with stakeholders to improve Logistics Management Information Systems (LMIS).
- Supports digitization and integration of stock data for better tracking and analytics.
Innovation:
- Encourages the adoption of e-procurement tools (such as Quantum).
- Promotes use of analytics for performance monitoring and planning.

Ensures GESI-responsive procurement at all stages.
Promotes inclusive access to services and goods, especially for marginalized groups.
Implements the Do No Harm and zero-tolerance policies against discrimination, harassment, and exploitation.

4. Supervisory and Leadership Responsibilities

This role includes managing a multidisciplinary team of 11 personnel, including:

6 thematic experts (health procurement, logistics, laboratory management, etc.)
5 support staff
National and international consultants as needed

Leadership expectations include:

Mentoring and developing team capacity.
Delegating and supervising procurement and logistics activities.
Fostering a collaborative and inclusive team culture.

5. Required Qualifications and Skills

A. Education

Master’s Degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Engineering, Project Management, Law, or related fields.
Alternatively, a Bachelor’s Degree with 2 extra years of experience will be considered.
CIPS Level 4 certification is strongly preferred.

B. Experience

Minimum 5 years (with Master’s) or 7 years (with Bachelor’s) of progressive experience in procurement, preferably with:
- International organizations or the UN system.
- Exposure to health product procurement and logistics.
- Knowledge of Global Fund procurement requirements.
Experience in:
- Using ERP systems (e.g., Oracle, SAP, Quantum).
- Report writing and documentation.
- Working in South Asia or similar socio-political environments.

C. Skills

Strong understanding of supply chain principles and international procurement standards.
Ability to analyze data, make decisions under pressure, and negotiate with suppliers.
Excellent project management, stakeholder engagement, and communication skills.
Strong technical writing skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office, Excel, Power BI, or other analytics tools.

D. Languages

Fluency in English (written and oral) is essential.

6. Core Competencies

Achieve Results: Sets and aligns goals, ensures timely delivery, and manages resources effectively.
Think Innovatively: Identifies new ways to solve complex challenges.
Learn Continuously: Seeks growth and knowledge-sharing opportunities.
Adapt with Agility: Flexible in changing environments.
Engage and Partner: Builds strong internal and external collaborations.
Act with Determination: Resolves issues and drives strategic initiatives.
Enable Diversity and Inclusion: Promotes inclusivity across processes and decisions.

7. Technical Competencies

System Thinking: Understands the interrelation of components within health systems and how changes affect outcomes.
Negotiation and Influence: Capable of resolving complex procurement negotiations and achieving win-win agreements.
Contract Management: Manages contracts through their full life cycle.
Portfolio Management: Prioritizes procurement interventions in alignment with programmatic goals.
Health Procurement: Deep understanding of quality-assured procurement of medical goods, pharmaceuticals, and diagnostics.

8. Challenges and Opportunities

Challenges

Operating in a context with limited infrastructure and logistical hurdles.
Balancing donor compliance with national systems.
Ensuring supply chain resilience during emergencies or political instability.
Integrating gender-sensitive and inclusive practices in technical functions.

Opportunities

Help shape national procurement strategies.
Drive innovation in health logistics and e-procurement.
Leave a long-term impact by strengthening national systems.
Enhance cross-sectoral partnerships with civil society, government, and international donors.

9. Career Development Path

This role is well-suited for professionals looking to build a career in:

Global Health Supply Chain Management
Public Sector Procurement
UN Operations
Programmatic Risk Management
Health Systems Strengthening

It opens doors to senior roles within:

UNDP (e.g., Operations Manager, Regional PSM Advisor)
WHO, UNICEF, GFATM
INGOs like CHAI, PATH, PSI
Ministries of Health as technical advisors

10. Contract and Conditions

Position Grade: P3 (mid-level professional)
Type: Fixed-term appointment
Initial Duration: 1 year (with potential extension based on performance and funding)
Mobility Required: Some travel may be required within Nepal and internationally.

11. Ethics and Compliance

As a UNDP staff member, the incumbent is expected to:

Uphold the highest ethical standards.
Adhere to UNDP’s zero-tolerance policy against sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment.
Submit to rigorous reference and background checks.
Fully comply with UNDP’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion policies.

12. Final Notes

This position offers a unique opportunity to:

Drive transformational change in health logistics.
Work at the intersection of public health, supply chain systems, and international development.
Gain exposure to high-level decision-making and donor engagement.

The selected candidate will play a pivotal role in ensuring access to life-saving health commodities for some of the most vulnerable populations in Nepal, in line with the UNDP’s commitment to “leaving no one behind.”

Absolutely! Let me expand on this explanation further, diving deeper into the role, the context, the strategic importance, and various aspects that could help you understand the expectations and nuances of the Procurement and Supply Chain Management Specialist position with UNDP in Kathmandu.

13. Procurement and Supply Chain Management in the Context of Nepal

A. Nepal’s Development Landscape

Nepal is a landlocked country situated in the Himalayan region of South Asia, with a complex topography, socio-political structure, and developmental needs. The country is recovering from several years of internal conflict and economic instability, with vast disparities in access to healthcare, education, and essential services. These challenges are compounded by Nepal’s geographic constraints — remote and hard-to-reach areas where logistical barriers hinder the delivery of goods and services.

As a result, effective procurement and supply chain management (PSM) in Nepal require a deep understanding of local conditions, including:

Infrastructure limitations, especially in rural areas.
The need for customized solutions to address unique challenges related to geography, transport, and communication.
A resilient supply chain model that is adaptive to Nepal’s frequent natural disasters (such as floods, landslides, and earthquakes).

For the UNDP team in Nepal, the Procurement and Supply Chain Management Specialist plays a pivotal role in bridging these challenges, ensuring that health commodities and essential services are delivered efficiently and effectively. The position also supports the Government of Nepal in building sustainable procurement systems, thereby strengthening the country’s health and supply chain infrastructure.

B. The Role of UNDP in Nepal’s Health Sector

UNDP’s involvement in Nepal’s health sector is primarily centered around supporting the Global Fund and the Government of Nepal in combating HIV, tuberculosis (TB), and malaria. The country has been facing significant health challenges in these areas, particularly in terms of access to medicines, treatment, and prevention programs for marginalized and high-risk groups.

The Procurement and Supply Chain Management Specialist is critical in ensuring that the right medicines and supplies are available at the right time, in the right quantity, and in the right condition. The responsibilities of the role extend beyond just procurement — it’s about managing the entire supply chain ecosystem, ensuring that health products move seamlessly from global suppliers to local health facilities, without disruption.

Moreover, the role involves procurement planning that is forward-thinking, ensuring that stocks are available in advance to prevent stockouts or shortages in treatment programs, especially for antiretroviral (ARV) drugs for people living with HIV, anti-TB medications, and malaria treatment kits.

14. The Role in Emergency and Humanitarian Settings

Nepal is highly susceptible to natural disasters like earthquakes, floods, and landslides, which can disrupt not only the supply chain but also the delivery of health services. In this context, the Procurement and Supply Chain Management Specialist needs to:

Be adept at creating contingency plans for emergencies.
Establish pre-positioned stocks of essential commodities (e.g., vaccines, medicines, sanitation supplies) that can be quickly deployed during disasters.
Work closely with logistics partners, civil defense organizations, and national health programs to ensure that health supplies can reach affected areas without delay.

In emergency situations, the ability to act quickly and efficiently is paramount. The UNDP team in Nepal must also be prepared to respond to outbreaks of diseases or other public health emergencies, coordinating with international organizations, donors, and government agencies to supply essential medicines and equipment.

15. Humanitarian and Development Nexus in Procurement

The Procurement and Supply Chain Management Specialist position lies at the intersection of humanitarian aid and long-term development. While addressing the immediate needs of the population, the role must also contribute to strengthening national procurement systems, helping Nepal move towards self-sufficiency in procurement and supply chain management.

Key aspects of this dual focus include:

Capacity-building initiatives: Developing local expertise in supply chain management, ensuring that Nepal’s own institutions can independently manage procurement and logistics in the future.
Sustainability considerations: Focusing on green procurement practices, including sustainable sourcing, environmentally friendly packaging, and energy-efficient delivery solutions.
Social inclusivity: Promoting the inclusion of marginalized groups in the supply chain, ensuring that products are distributed equitably to all regions, particularly to remote and underserved communities.

This approach requires a balance between humanitarian response (immediate relief) and development (long-term capacity-building), ensuring that both elements are integrated into the procurement strategy.

16. Procurement and Supply Chain Challenges in a Complex Environment

A. Navigating a Complex Regulatory Framework

Nepal has a multi-layered regulatory framework for procurement, involving both national regulations and international standards. Navigating this landscape can be challenging, particularly when it comes to customs clearance, import restrictions, and ensuring that procurement processes are aligned with the Global Fund’s procurement policies.

The Procurement and Supply Chain Management Specialist must therefore:

Understand both Nepal’s national procurement laws and UNDP procurement rules.
Work with customs authorities, transport providers, and quality assurance teams to ensure that procurement activities are legally compliant and smoothly executed.
Manage cross-border procurement, ensuring that international shipments are processed efficiently and reach their destination without undue delay.

B. Supply Chain Visibility and Transparency

A major challenge in Nepal’s procurement landscape is maintaining visibility across the entire supply chain. Due to infrastructure limitations, particularly in remote areas, it’s often difficult to track the movement and stock levels of critical health commodities.

The Procurement and Supply Chain Management Specialist must implement supply chain tracking tools such as RFID or barcoding systems to improve visibility, accuracy, and inventory control. Moreover, this role involves establishing a robust data reporting system, ensuring that stakeholders are continuously updated on stock levels, delivery timelines, and potential risks.

Gender equality and social inclusion are central principles to the UNDP mandate, and the Procurement and Supply Chain Management Specialist must ensure that these principles are integrated into procurement processes. This includes:

Ensuring that gender-sensitive products (such as sanitary products, maternal health supplies, etc.) are available to underserved communities.
Promoting the inclusion of women-owned businesses in the supply chain by encouraging participation in tenders.
Addressing the specific needs of vulnerable populations (e.g., refugees, persons with disabilities) through inclusive procurement practices.

Integrating gender and social inclusion in procurement is not just about meeting policy goals — it’s about ensuring that procurement processes contribute to inclusive development and provide equitable access to essential services.

18. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and Success Metrics

To measure the success of the Procurement and Supply Chain Management Specialist, several Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) are used:

Procurement Cycle Time: The time taken from requisition to delivery of goods.
Stock Availability: Percentage of critical health commodities in stock.
Supplier Performance: Adherence to delivery timelines, contract specifications, and quality standards.
Cost Efficiency: Cost savings through competitive procurement processes, negotiation, and volume purchases.
Compliance: Adherence to UNDP’s procurement policies, Global Fund’s guidelines, and national regulations.
Stakeholder Satisfaction: Feedback from stakeholders, including the Ministry of Health, implementing partners, and beneficiaries, on the effectiveness and efficiency of the procurement and supply chain processes.

19. Long-Term Impact of the Role

The Procurement and Supply Chain Management Specialist plays a critical role in improving the resilience of Nepal’s health system by ensuring uninterrupted access to medicines and other essential goods. The work done in this role has a multifaceted impact:

Public Health Outcomes: Ensuring the timely availability of essential medicines and health supplies directly impacts treatment success rates, disease control efforts, and overall public health outcomes in Nepal.
System Sustainability: Contributing to the strengthening of national procurement systems helps create a more self-sufficient and resilient health sector in Nepal, reducing reliance on external aid over time.
Economic Efficiency: Streamlined procurement processes and effective supply chain management can result in significant cost savings, making more resources available for other health priorities.

20. Conclusion

The Procurement and Supply Chain Management Specialist role at UNDP in Kathmandu represents an exciting opportunity for professionals with a strong background in procurement, logistics, and supply chain management to contribute to Nepal’s development goals. This role goes beyond just operational procurement; it is about contributing to a broader vision of sustainable development, tackling public health challenges, and empowering Nepal to build its own systems and capacities.

For individuals committed to public service, international development, and making a tangible difference in people’s lives, this position is a highly rewarding opportunity. You will be part of a dynamic team at the forefront of global health efforts, making a lasting impact on public health systems, especially in areas where it is needed most.

Let me know if you need further details or if you would like to focus on specific aspects of the role in more depth!

April 4, 2025

13 minutes read