The BBG on the international stage
As an established central procurement organisation, the BBG has been active beyond Austria's bor-ders for years. To be the best in class and a role model in the EU is an integral part of the BBG's strategy and vision. The same applies to the expansion and active cultivation of international rela-tions and the successful implementation of international projects.
The BBG's activities therefore focus in particular on three areas:
- Building and maintaining networks
The BBG is a sought-after source of know-how, consultant, and implementation partner. As such, it is a member of important EU expert and working groups relevant to procurement, is in partnership with other procurement organisations, and is part of essential industry networks.
- Building and exchanging know-how
The BBG imports know-how into the organisation on professional and personal levels, creates ex-tended international fields of activity across divisions, and enables active learning through the ex-change of proven methods. At the same time, the BBG passes on its know-how and experience to new or future member states within the framework of consultancy contracts and projects.
- Implementation of projects
As a recognised project and TWINNING partner, the BBG carries out numerous EU projects on administrative reform, procurement and e-procurement and has many years of experience in the development and implementation of training programmes for public buyers.en für öffentliche Einkäufer.
What are the advantages of the BBG's international involvement? Broadening the procurement horizon offers a wealth of opportunities:
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Learning, sharing and applying knowledge
A lively exchange with partners in networks and other procurement agencies promotes mutual learning. Looking beyond borders helps to redefine processes and structures. This know-how in turn benefits the BBG's customers, e.g. in tenders on the European internal market (see also Cross Border Procurement). -
Well informed
Relevant topics and innovations are quickly taken up in the BBG’s networks. Exchange between BBG experts and experts from other procurement organisations in the EU gives BBG customers a clear advantage in terms of information. - To introduce points of view and themes at the European level
The BBG participates actively in the shaping of European legislation through statements on draft legislation, participation in expert groups, and exchanges in projects with the EU. Central topics of Austrian contracting authorities and BBG suppliers can thus be effectively placed.
In line with the Commission's strategic goal of professionalising public buyers, the BBG in 2018 won an EU-wide tender to become the training institution for central procurement agencies. Together with the WU Executive Academy in Vienna, a practice-oriented course for public buyers was developed and successfully implemented. A total of 33 participants from 19 nations were trained in Vienna over a period of 6 weeks. More information on the PPE Public Procurement Excellence Initiative can be found at ppe.bbg.gv.at.
Another project in line with the Commission's professionalisation strategy is the development of a European Competency Framework (ECF) for public buyers. The BBG is part of the international Advisory Board, which defines a competence framework for functions in public procurement. On the basis of the competence framework it will be possible for contracting authorities to assess the abilities of their employees themselves, to identify relevant fields of development and training needs and thus to strengthen the efficiency of the organisation.
If you have any questions about our international activities, please contact:
Uwe Flach
Head of Consulting & E-Procurement & International Affairs
E-Mail: uwe.flach(at)bbg.gv.at
Tel.: +43 1 24570-556
