Procurement Specialist

The International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) is an international, non-profit agricultural research center established in 1999 through the visionary leadership of the Islamic Development Bank (Is DB), the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) Fund, the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development (AFESD), and the Government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). ICBA is a unique applied agricultural research center in the world that is focused on marginal areas where an estimated 1.7 billion people live. It identifies, tests, and introduces resource-efficient, climate-smart crops and technologies that are best suited to different regions affected by salinity, water scarcity, and drought. Through its work, ICBA helps to improve food security and livelihoods for some of the poorest rural communities around the world. ICBA is an equal opportunity employer and appoints qualified staff regardless of race, creed, color, age, gender, religion, or national origin. We demonstrate our commitment to each member of our team through a competitive benefits package designed to assist our employees to cover their needs and the needs of their immediate family members.Job Summary The position plays an integral role in the Center as it entails responsibilities to be performed in order to serve internal/external clients. The Procurement Specialist will ensure that all activities and programs related to procurement are implemented in accordance with ICBA's global strategic business objectives, delivering optimal cost, quality, and service. They will contribute to managing and allocating approved resources efficiently and timely to meet the operational needs of the Center and ensure continuity of service. His/her main goal is to develop, implement, and administer corporate-wide policies and systems in a consistent and transparent manner to achieve operational cost efficiencies and ensure compliance with ICBA’s policies, UAE laws, and international best practices.UAE Nationals are encouraged to apply.Job Responsibilities Implement the organization’s procurement strategies effectively, consistently, and in accordance with UAE laws and international best practices.Establish and rationalize key supplier agreements, identify new opportunities, seek efficiency improvements, and ensure compliance.Review purchasing arrangements with suppliers, including price, delivery, performance, and discounts to reduce supply chain costs.Review submissions from providers for conformity to contract specifications and make recommendations on acceptable contracts.Develop and manage supplier sourcing strategies and plans to maximize effectiveness and efficiency.Manage projects to improve procurement processes.Develop, streamline, and implement procurement and inventory policies and guidelines.Ensure procurement processes and guidelines are followed to obtain the best value for expenditure on goods and services.Develop KPIs to monitor and evaluate supplier and contract performance.Perform risk assessments for supply contracts and agreements.Negotiate and re-negotiate profitable terms and conditions for business contracts and partnerships.Oversee daily operations of procurement and inventory functions.Coordinate with internal stakeholders to develop purchasing plans, identify needs, and promote early procurement involvement.Collaborate with the finance team for forecasting and budgeting during procurement cycles.Maintain positive relationships with strategic suppliers to meet cost, quality, and delivery targets.Analyze market and delivery trends to develop procurement technologies and processes.Assist the Chief Operations & Development in preparing reports, making sound judgments, and presenting to management and the Board.Qualifications and Experience Bachelor’s degree in business administration or related field.At least 6 years of relevant experience, preferably in the development sector.Working knowledge of ERP, supply chain, and other relevant tools and technology.Proficiency in English and Arabic.Other Skills and Competencies Strong negotiating skills and procurement expertise.Ability to work accurately under pressure and maintain attention to detail.Strong organizational and analytical skills.Financial and legal awareness.Adaptability to change and adherence to deadlines.Self-motivated and able to work independently and as part of a team.Excellent relationship-building skills internally and externally.Effective communication and interpersonal skills. #J-18808-Ljbffr