Procurement Associate (Category Associate)

Working as a Procurement Associate (Category Associate) at the World Bank in Chennai, India offers a unique opportunity to contribute to solving development challenges in various countries. The World Bank Group, comprising five institutions, is dedicated to ending extreme poverty, increasing shared prosperity, and promoting sustainable development. With a global presence, the organization collaborates with public and private sector partners to invest in innovative projects and leverage data, research, and technology for impactful solutions (www.worldbank.org). Within the Budget, Performance Review, and Strategic Planning Vice Presidency (BPS VPU), the Corporate Procurement department plays a vital role in delivering high-value, professional finance, procurement, and resource management services. The department focuses on ensuring efficiency, effectiveness, and transparency in procurement activities to support the WBG strategy. The Corporate Procurement Department, based in Washington, D.C., Chennai, India, and Sofia, Bulgaria, oversees the sourcing strategy, selection, and contract execution for over 130 Bank Group offices globally. This includes managing categories such as Corporate Services and Real Estate, Consulting, Human Resources and Professional Services, and Technology. As a Procurement Associate (Category Associate), you will report to the Senior Procurement Specialist and work closely with the Global Head Sourcing and Supplier Management. Your key responsibilities will include partnering with clients to understand their needs, develop procurement plans, conduct market research, and manage vendor relationships. You will be tasked with negotiating contract terms, managing category spend, and ensuring compliance with the World Bank Group's policies. Additionally, you will play a crucial role in maximizing value for money, managing risks, and promoting sustainability across various procurement categories. To be successful in this role, you should possess a Bachelor's degree or equivalent, along with a minimum of three years of relevant experience in procurement, preferably at an international organization or multinational company. Strong knowledge of international procurement practices, negotiating skills, and project management capabilities are essential. Proficiency in MS Office applications and familiarity with relevant technologies or systems (e.g., SAP, MS Dynamics) would be advantageous. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong analytical and interpersonal skills, the ability to work in a multicultural environment, and a client service-oriented approach. Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, are crucial, along with the capacity to resolve conflicts and build productive relationships. Being detail-oriented, proactive, and adaptable to changing work schedules due to time zone differences with clients is also important. This position is open to WBG and IMF staff only. External candidates are not eligible to apply. If you are looking to make a meaningful impact through strategic procurement practices and contribute to sustainable development goals, this role at the World Bank in Chennai could be the right fit for you.,