Background

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) partners with people at all levels of society to help build nations that can withstand crisis, and drive and sustain the kind of growth that improves the quality of life for everyone. On the ground in more than 170 countries and territories, we offer global perspective and local insight to help empower lives and build resilient nations.

UNDP Country Offices in the Asia-Pacific region procures approximately USD 260 million worth of goods and services on an annual basis. These procurement actions are subject to oversight of Procurement Advisory Committees, based in Bangkok Thailand or by the Contracts Committees based in each of the Country Offices. On an annual basis, approximately 400 such reviews are held to assess the procurement actions across the Asia-Pacific region. In order to better facilitate such reviews and to develop best practices, there is a need for enhanced data analysis and consolidation.

Duties and Responsibilities

The Intern shall assist the Chief of Procurement Advisory Committee, focusing on the following:

  • Extraction of data from various sources; research and retrieval of statistical data from internal and external sources; preparation of statistical charts, tables and reports as needed;
  • Support development of standardized solicitation documents for commonly procured categories, using best practices;
  • Support the development of regional procurement plans;
  • Perform other assigned related functions, as needed.

Competencies

  • Demonstrable skills in analytical thinking, communication, and research;
  • Good communication skills; research, speaking, writing and editing skills in English;
  • Proficient computer skills and knowledge of data analysis using Microsoft Excel;
  • Demonstrated ability to successfully interact with individuals of different cultural backgrounds, which include willingness to try and understand and be tolerant of differing opinions and views;
  • Excellent communication skills (listening, speaking, writing, observing);
  • Ability to use own initiative and creatively consider solutions;
  • Results driven, able to meet targets/deadlines.

Required Skills and Experience

Eligibility

Education:

  • Enrolled in a Master’s Degree Programme in a Graduate School/University at the time of application and during the internship, preferably in the field of Management, Supply Chain, or related disciplines;
  • Candidates who have graduated are not eligible for Internship with UNDP.

Experience:

  • Understanding of international and/or development issues is desirable;
  • Experience working with the media is desirable;

Language Requirements:

  • Fluency in English and Thai.

Interns’ Expenses:

UNDP does not pay for internships.  All the costs associated with the assignment must be borne by the nominating institution, which may provide the required financial assistance to its students; or by the student, who will have to obtain financing for subsistence and make his or her own arrangements for travel to and from Bangkok (including commute to UNDP Office every day), visas, accommodation, and other costs during the assignment duration.

UNDP shall provide the Intern with an office space, Internet connectivity and an email address, at no cost.

Applicants for internship must show proof of valid medical and life/accident insurance demonstrating coverage in Thailand during the assignment duration.  It must include adequate coverage in the event of an injury or illness during the internship which (a) requires transportation to the Home Country or Country of Residence for further treatment; and/or (b) results in death and requires preparation and return of the remains to the Home Country, or Country of Residence.

Subsequent Employment:

  • The purpose of the Internship Programme is not to lead to further employment with UNDP but to complement the ongoing studies of the individual. Therefore, there should be no expectation of employment at the end of an Internship.