Esther - Purchasing Advisor
I have been working at the water board for five years now and started here as a trainee after completing my studies in facility management. I wanted to continue learning, procurement is a specialized field and it seemed interesting to me. You put assignments on the market, look at how you can get more value for your money and also how everything can 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 specialization is sustainable procurement.’
Dash forward
One of my tasks is sustainable procurement within civil engineering projects. I find it challenging to look at tenders and see how we can encourage suppliers to produce as sustainably as possible. Of course, quality, price, and forms 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 board.’
I come from a farm, so I learned early on what the tasks of a water board are. The social value and impact appeal to me. That's why I enjoy working for the government; here, I can make a difference.
Government sets an example
As a public organization, we have a pioneering role to play. This means we must set a good example ourselves. For example, we ask organizations 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 organization. Above all, we want to work with organizations 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 board
Procurement is a young and motivated team. That inspires me. There are plenty of opportunities at the water board. 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 here.
Will you choose water work too?
We work together to achieve the right water balance. But we believe that a good work-life balance is just as important!Withus, you can combine meaningful work with job satisfaction and good employment conditions.
