About the Organization
The role is based within the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), a regional arm of the United Nations dedicated to promoting economic and social development across the African continent. ECA works closely with African governments, regional institutions, and development partners to foster sustainable growth, regional integration, and inclusive development.
As part of the United Nations system, ECA plays a critical role in advancing policy research, capacity building, and advisory services to member states. Its operations are guided by the principles of transparency, accountability, and efficiency, making procurement and contract management essential functions that support program delivery.
Working at ECA provides professionals with an opportunity to contribute to impactful initiatives that influence development outcomes across Africa. The organization values integrity, innovation, diversity, and professionalism in all its operations.
This position contributes directly to strengthening contract oversight, ensuring that procurement activities align with UN rules and regulations, and supporting operational excellence. By joining ECA, you become part of a global network committed to advancing sustainable development goals.
Job Description
The Contract Management Assistant will support the Contract Management Unit in administering and monitoring service, supply, and equipment maintenance contracts in line with UN Procurement Manuals, Rules, and Regulations. The role ensures that contractual obligations are met efficiently and transparently.
Under the supervision of the Senior Contract Management Assistant and the overall guidance of the Chief of Section, the incumbent will assist in managing contract lifecycles from award through close-out.
Key responsibilities include:
• Supporting the administration and oversight of service, supply, and maintenance contracts.
• Monitoring contractor performance, ensuring compliance with deliverables, timelines, and payment terms.
• Conducting periodic reviews of maintenance and repair contracts for UN-owned equipment and assets.
• Tracking and documenting contract violations and following up on corrective measures.
The role also involves assisting in drafting procurement documentation such as Statements of Work (SOWs), evaluation matrices, source selection plans, and Requests for Proposals (RFPs). The incumbent will analyze procurement requests and ensure accuracy of data throughout the contract lifecycle.
Additional duties include supporting post-award contract administration, processing amendments and extensions, reviewing invoices, and verifying payments in compliance with contractual terms. The assistant will coordinate with Procurement, Legal, and other units on claims, disputes, and contractual remedies.
The position also requires maintaining organized contract files, monitoring renewal schedules, preparing dashboards and analytical reports, and consolidating procurement data for management review. Effective stakeholder engagement with contractors and internal clients is essential.
This role plays a crucial part in maintaining financial accountability and operational efficiency, ensuring that resources are utilized responsibly to achieve program objectives.
Educational Qualification
A High School Diploma is required for this position.
Additional qualifications such as a CIPS Level 4 Diploma, a Master’s degree in Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Finance, or Accounting are considered strong assets.
Training in data science or analytics is an advantage, particularly for supporting reporting and data-driven decision-making functions within contract management.
Work Experience
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in contract management, procurement, business administration, accounting, or IT is required.
Experience using contract and procurement-related software systems and database management tools is desirable.
Familiarity with UN contract and procurement systems, as well as experience in data monitoring and reporting, is highly valued.
Candidates with a strong track record of compliance oversight, invoice review, and risk mitigation in complex organizational settings will be particularly competitive.
Required Skills and Competencies
Professionalism is essential, including sound knowledge of procurement principles, supply chain processes, and administrative procedures.
Strong planning and organizational skills are required to manage multiple contracts simultaneously while meeting strict deadlines.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English are mandatory, including strong report-writing capabilities. Knowledge of French or another UN language is an added advantage.
The role requires teamwork, collaboration, and the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams and external contractors.
Analytical skills, attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and proficiency in data management tools are key success factors.
Job Location
The position is based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, at the premises of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa.
Working in Addis Ababa offers exposure to a dynamic international environment and engagement with professionals from across the African continent and beyond.
Employment Type and Salary
This position is offered as an Individual Contractor assignment for a duration of nine (9) months.
The level is G5/1 equivalent under consultant category arrangements. Compensation will be aligned with UN consultancy standards and commensurate with qualifications and experience.
This role provides valuable international experience within the UN system and strengthens professional credentials in procurement and contract management.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application through the official United Nations careers portal before the deadline of March 7, 2026.
Applicants are advised to complete their online profile carefully and ensure that all required information is provided in the application form.
Please note that scanned certificates, transcripts, or additional attachments are not required at the time of application.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment and interviews.
The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa is committed to diversity and inclusion. Qualified women, persons with disabilities, and candidates from underrepresented member states are strongly encouraged to apply.
This is an excellent opportunity for experienced contract management professionals seeking to contribute to impactful development work while advancing their careers within the United Nations system.