Public procurement buyer

Job Knowledge

• Proficient in using computers and smartphones.
• Good basic knowledge of MS Word and advanced knowledge of MS Excel.
• Familiar with current email tools and necessary social media platforms.
• Regularly updates and develops professional skills.
• Knowledge of SAP or similar ERP software is an advantage and may be included in mandatory training.
• Knowledge of process management.
• Strong language skills:
  • Dutch: Fluent, with the ability to communicate clearly and professionally.
  • French: Basic knowledge.
  • English: Basic knowledge.
• Strong numerical and analytical skills with a critical mindset.
• Keeps up to date with the context in which the client operates and monitors relevant developments.
• Interest in technical procurement files is an advantage.

Result and Change Competence

• Open to changes and new aspects within the role.
• Willing to learn and apply new methods, processes, and responsibilities.
• Proactively improves working methods, processes, practices, and knowledge.
• Innovative and forward-thinking, with a continuous focus on quality improvement.
• Identifies opportunities for improvement, proposes solutions, presents them, and implements them.
• Takes appropriate action to report and resolve errors and problems.
• Focused on achieving accurate and timely results.

Integrity and Reliability

• Demonstrates a strong sense of responsibility and punctuality.
• Keeps agreements and reports any irregularities appropriately.
• Able to work independently and accurately, both with and without supervision.
• Promotes smooth cooperation with colleagues and other departments.
• Ensures accurate and reliable information processing.
• Flexible and able to adapt working schedules according to departmental requirements, including on-call schedules and service hours.
• Takes colleagues and team requirements into account.
• Has a proactive attitude and works independently while maintaining the interests of the team.
• Handles personal, privacy-sensitive, and confidential company information with discretion.
• Collegial and respectful toward all colleagues.
• Treats everyone equally and professionally.
• Follows general social and ethical standards and the values of the client.
• Applies regulations correctly and does not permit unjustified deviations.
• Works effectively both as a team member and independently.

Communication

• Assertive, professional, and tactful in communication.
• Able to clearly express opinions and viewpoints in order to reach solutions collaboratively.
• Communicates messages and instructions clearly and effectively.
• Able to write professional and error-free letters and documents in proper Dutch, taking the target audience into account.
• Comfortable using available communication tools.
• Takes initiative and provides regular and constructive feedback to supervisors and colleagues.

Education

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent.
• A graduate diploma or equivalent qualification recognized under the guidelines of the Flemish Community for local authorities, preferably in an economic or technical field.
• A Bachelor's degree in Purchasing Administration is mentioned as a relevant educational background.

Required Experience

• Minimum 2 years of relevant experience in a similar position.

Alternative Qualification Route

Candidates who do not hold the required graduate diploma or equivalent qualification in an economic or technical field may still be eligible if they:

• Have at least 2 years of relevant experience in a similar position; and
• Successfully pass the required level or aptitude test.

Promotion Requirements

For internal promotion, the following conditions apply cumulatively:

• Currently employed by the client.
• Meets the applicable statutory and regulatory requirements.
• Holds a relevant graduate diploma or equivalent qualification recognized by the Flemish Community guidelines for local authorities.
• Has a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in a similar position.
• Has received a generally favorable evaluation in the current/previous position during the most recent evaluation.

Career & Training Requirements

During the career, the employee is expected to:

• Successfully complete an introductory program covering the client and its mission.
• Successfully complete required internal and/or external training programs.
• Maintain and develop expertise in their field through continuous training.
• Adapt to the job description and perform the responsibilities assigned.
• Adapt to the changing needs and requirements of the service.

Key Candidate Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's degree / relevant graduate diploma
• Experience: Minimum 2 years relevant experience
• Languages: Fluent Dutch + basic French + basic English
• Technical: MS Office, especially advanced Excel; SAP/ERP is an advantage
• Skills: Analytical, numerical, process management, communication, problem-solving, adaptability, and independent working
• Domain: Purchasing / procurement administration, with interest in technical procurement being an advantage.
   
• Demonstrable experience as a Public Procurement
• Purchaser Demonstrable knowledge of legislation Government assignments
• Higher education (Master or Bachelor)
• Demonstrable experience in procurement files
• Language requirement: Dutch at European CEFR - level C2.