Key skills for integrating sustainability and innovation into public procurement: the challenges for public purchasers

In a context where environmental and social issues are becoming increasingly pressing, public procurement is evolving to adapt to new demands for sustainability and innovation. To meet these challenges, public purchasers need to develop a set of specific skills that will enable them to reconcile economic performance, regulatory compliance and social responsibility. This article explores the key skills that public purchasers need to master in order to navigate this changing landscape, ensuring responsible and strategic purchasing.

Mastery of sustainability regulations and standards

Public purchasers need to understand and apply local, national and European sustainability regulations. Environmental and social standards, such as sustainable procurement regulations or carbon footprint reduction obligations, require in-depth knowledge of environmental legislation and certifications (e.g. ISO 14001, ISO 26000, etc.). This expertise enables us to design invitations to tender that incorporate sustainability criteria right from the drafting of specifications.

Skills in evaluating responsible suppliers

In public procurement, it is crucial to assess suppliers not only on their competitiveness, but also on their responsible practices. Buyers need to know how to analyse suppliers' supply chains, their commitments to sustainability, and their social and ethical practices. This requires expertise in supplier audits and the ability to verify certifications and ESG (Environment, Social, Governance) compliance reports​.

Knowledge of technological innovation and digital purchasing

New technologies, such as e-procurement solutions, artificial intelligence and Big Data, are playing an increasingly important role in public procurement management. To optimise processes and improve transparency, purchasers need to be comfortable with these digital tools. Competence in digitisation not only makes it possible to automate and optimise tasks, but also to better monitor suppliers' performance in real time and reduce transaction costs.

Risk management and resilience skills

Supply chain resilience has become a priority, especially in times of crisis. Public purchasers need to anticipate potential risks, whether environmental, geopolitical or financial. The ability to identify vulnerabilities in the supply chain, diversify suppliers, and develop contingency plans are essential skills to ensure the continuity of public services in all circumstances.

Ability to analyse data to make informed decisions

Data analysis is essential for understanding purchasing trends, identifying savings opportunities and measuring the impact of sustainability initiatives. Public purchasers need to be able to work with data analysis tools to exploit key performance indicators (KPIs), perform benchmarking, and monitor sustainability objectives. These data analytics skills enable informed decision-making, ensuring choices are aligned with the organisation's long-term objectives.

Communicating and raising awareness of sustainability issues

The support of internal stakeholders is crucial to the success of sustainability projects in public purchasing. Buyers must therefore master the art of communication to raise awareness and mobilise support for environmental and social issues. They also play a training role with suppliers to ensure that they meet the required standards. These communication skills encourage collaborative commitment and ensure that the organisation's sustainability values are respected.

Conclusion

Integrating sustainability and innovation into public procurement is not just a passing trend; it is a strategic challenge for the future. By developing specific skills, public purchasers can assume a leadership role in this transition. They become agents of change, capable of reconciling economic performance, respect for the environment and social responsibility. At Aria Partner, we support public authorities and public enterprises in this transformation by helping them to enhance the skills of their purchasing teams, so that their practices are aligned with the values of tomorrow.