Project Officer within ICLEI's Sustainable Procurement Team

The European Secretariat of ICLEI - Local Governments for Sustainability has a vacancy for a Project Officer within ICLEI's Sustainable Procurement Team.

ICLEI's Sustainable Procurement Team develops and disseminates best practice in sustainable procurement practice across Europe. The team supports public authorities in developing and implementing sustainable procurement policies and strategies. The team also develops and implements projects on sustainable procurement to advance research, raise awareness and develop the latest tools to assist public authorities to use their purchasing power effectively by making a positive contribution to sustainable development.

This position will be of interest to anyone seeking experience of working in an international organisation and is interested in sustainable development with a focus on sustainable procurement.

Tasks and responsibilities:

- Develop and implement projects on sustainable procurement.

- Assist in the establishment and running of a European network on sustainable construction to drive sustainable innovations in public construction projects across Europe.

- Develop guidance and case studies, carry out training activities and disseminate information to improve knowledge and skills amongst public sector procurers on sustainability aspects.

- Undertake research and develop sustainable specifications for goods and services bought by local governments and other public bodies.

- Support public authorities across Europe in developing and implementing sustainable procurement policies and strategies.

- Communication and dissemination work with partner organisations and local governments.

- Research funding opportunities and prepare project applications.

- Organise events (e.g. meetings, workshops, training seminars and conferences).

- Represent ICLEI in external and internal events and give presentations.

- Any other duties that might be required consistent with the range and nature of responsibilities as a member of the Sustainable Procurement team.

Skills required:

- A degree in a relevant subject, such as environmental sciences, economics, political sciences, or other appropriate qualification.

- An understanding of sustainable procurement principles and their application in public sector purchasing.

- At least one year’s experience of working in procurement and/or the field of sustainable development.

- Practical experience and knowledge of sustainable procurement is desirable.

- Experience in the principles and application of sustainable construction techniques is desirable.

- Good research skills in order to identify best practice and adapt for use in public sector settings.

- Good verbal and written communication skills e.g. able to take minutes for meetings, draft complex documents and give presentations to audiences at a variety of levels.

- Ability and willingness to work independently and as part of a team.

- Ability to liaise with a wide range of external organisations.

- Ability to manage time, prioritise tasks and produce good quality work within tight time constraints.

- A very good command of English (reading, writing and verbally). Additional European language(s) an asset.

- At least one year’s experience of working in procurement and/or the field of sustainable development.

- Ability to use Word, Email, Excel to a high standard.

- Willing to travel in Europe and occasionally internationally.

Conditions: