Esther - Purchasing Advisor
I have been working at the water authority for five years now, and I started here as a trainee after completing my studies in facility management. I wanted to continue learning, procurement is a specialised field and it seemed interesting to me. You put orders out in the market, look at how you can get more value for your money, and how it can all be made more sustainable. For two years, I was able to gain knowledge and learn on the job. That was a great opportunity. And now I'm fully involved as a procurement advisor.
‘My specialisation is sustainable procurement.’
An advantage
One of my tasks is sustainable procurement within in civil-engineering projects. It is a challenge to look at tenders and see how we can encourage suppliers to produce as sustainably as possible. Of course, quality, price, and types of cooperation are also important. But if companies take an environmentally-friendly approach, they have an advantage. In our tendering processes, they receive more points if they emit less CO2 or reuse materials in their work.
‘Because I come from a farm, I was already familiar with the water authority'
I come from a farm, so I learned early on what the tasks of a water authority are. The social value and impact appeal to me. That's why I enjoy working for the government, where I can make a difference.
Government sets an example
As a public organisation, we have a pioneering role. This means we must set a good example ourselves. For example, we ask organisations we work with to reduce their CO2 emissions. It is important that we do the same ourselves, of course. That is why we are certified for the CO2 performance ladder and limit our own emissions within our organisation. Above all, we want to work with organisations that are also committed to sustainability.
I advise colleagues from different teams on their tenders. In addition to financial knowledge and knowledge of contracts and legislation, you need to be able to work well with others and give sound advice. These are often large, important projects.
Plenty of opportunities at the water authority
Procurement is a young and motivated team. That is inspiring. There are plenty of opportunities at the water authority. You do have to stick your neck out a bit, but if you know what you want and are proactive, there are lots of possibilities.
Will it be water-management work for you too?
We work together to get the water balance just right. But we think a good work-life balance is just as important! When you work for us, you can combine meaningful work with job satisfaction and great terms of employment.
