Procurement Expert

Job Posting Organization:
EUROCONTROL is an intergovernmental organization established to support European aviation. It was founded in 1960 and has grown to encompass a workforce of over 1,800 employees. The organization operates across multiple countries in Europe, providing air navigation services and supporting the development of a seamless European air traffic management system. EUROCONTROL's mission is to enhance the safety and efficiency of air traffic management in Europe, ensuring that air travel is safe, efficient, and environmentally sustainable. The organization is committed to fostering collaboration among its member states and stakeholders to achieve its objectives.

Job Overview:
The Procurement Expert will play a crucial role within the Finance, Procurement and Agreements Unit of the Maastricht Upper Area Control Centre (MUAC). This position requires a deep understanding of procurement processes and the ability to integrate these activities with the organization’s financial and operational systems. The expert will be responsible for analyzing procurement requests, providing expert guidance on legal and contractual matters, and ensuring compliance with EUROCONTROL and MUAC regulations. The role involves drafting, reviewing, and negotiating various types of agreements, overseeing procurement processes, and collaborating with internal and external partners to enhance procurement practices. The successful candidate will also mentor junior staff and contribute to the continuous improvement of procurement activities within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Procurement Expert will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: providing technical expertise and guidance on procurement activities; analyzing procurement requests and offering expert advice on legal and contractual matters; drafting, reviewing, and negotiating agreements and contracts; overseeing the approval of procurement and sales contracts; preparing and launching procurement procedures; coordinating negotiations for procurement and licensing agreements; collaborating with partners and participating in workshops and studies; identifying opportunities for enhancing procurement practices; and mentoring junior staff. The expert will also be expected to carry out any other tasks that align with the main purpose of the job, ensuring that procurement activities are conducted in a timely, effective, and transparent manner.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have completed third-level studies, such as a Master in Law, meeting the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) Level 7 or higher. Additionally, a minimum of three years of relevant working experience is required, particularly in public procurement within international organizations. Candidates should have experience in drafting complex international contracts and agreements, as well as proficiency in legal drafting. Familiarity with procurement support systems and tools, such as Oracle Financials, is also essential. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical thinking, communication skills, influencing abilities, a quality-focused mindset, and organizational awareness. They should be able to work effectively in a multinational and multicultural environment and demonstrate professional conduct aligned with the corporate behaviors of the Agency.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in Law or a related field that meets the European Qualifications Framework Level 7 or higher. Internal candidates may refer to the intranet for equivalency checks regarding in-house experience that may be considered equivalent to the educational qualifications required for this role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant working experience, particularly in public procurement within international organizations. Candidates should have a proven track record in drafting complex international contracts and agreements, as well as experience in contract law and legal drafting. Familiarity with procurement systems and tools is also necessary to support procurement activities effectively.

Languages:
Proficiency in English at level C2 is mandatory for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the Agency. French is also a working language, and while proficiency in French is not mandatory, it is considered an asset for candidates applying for this role. The language proficiency levels are based on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).

Additional Notes:
The position is a full-time role with a contract duration of five years, which may be extended or converted based on specific conditions. The selected candidate will be required to complete a probationary period of nine months before being established in the post. Internal candidates will retain their current type of appointment duration. The appointment may be renewed multiple times, but the total duration, including all renewal periods, cannot exceed nine years. The selected candidate must also undergo security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security vetting as per EUROCONTROL's security provisions. Applications are accepted only from nationals of EUROCONTROL Member States, and candidates must provide documentary evidence confirming they meet the minimum education requirements. The organization is committed to equality and diversity, and in the event of equal merit, preference may be given to applicants from under-represented diversity characteristics.