The PPE+ Europe 2024 training programme wrapped up on a high note, marking the conclusion of an enriching journey in public procurement learning. Over the past days, participants completed the last onsite block of the programme in the ICLEI Europe headquarters in Brussels. They engaged in stimulating sessions led by the experts Emmanuel Breen (Université Sorbonne); Fiorella Tamburrelli, Helena O’Rourke-Potocki and Cristina Roca (ICLEI Europe); Maja Kuhar and Linda Dahlström (Adda), covering critical topics that shape procurement practices across Europe.

Key training modules included:

➡ Negotiations in Public Procurement – Exploring the core principles of public procurement negotiations, from planning and preparation to closing deals, including bias and ethical considerations in public procurement. 

➡ Collaborative Approaches to Market Engagement – Participants learned about the benefits of collaborative procurement, how to engage the market as a purchasing group, and key examples of successful collaborative approaches, including the Big Buyers initiative and Joint Statements of Demand.  

➡ Introduction to Anti-Corruption and Compliance Systems – Participants explored the basics of anti-corruption in public procurement, the legal frameworks for compliance systems, and international anti-corruption standards, with a focus on their impact on procurement policies and practices. 

 ➡ Integrity & Conflict of Interest in Public Procurement – A deep dive into identifying, preventing, and managing conflicts of interest, particularly in the most vulnerable stages of the procurement process. Practical tools and preventive measures tailored for Contracting Public Bodies (CPBs) were also explored.

 ➡ Contract Modifications & Price Changes – A focused session on legal grounds for contract modifications under EU Public Procurement Directives, European Court of Justice case law, and best practices in adjusting Framework Agreements, especially regarding pricing.

The final day featured expert insights from European Commission representatives Ivo Locatelli, Anita Poort, and Sylvie Ludain, who shed light on emerging topics such as the evaluation of EU Public Procurement Directives, Public Procurement of Innovation, and the European Union Ecolabel. These discussions provided valuable perspectives on evolving regulations and future procurement trends.

The event concluded with a graduation ceremony, where participants were awarded certificates in recognition of their dedication. Representatives from the European Innovation Council and SMEs Executive Agency (EISMEA) and DG GROW honored the occasion with insightful speeches, celebrating the journey and welcoming the new PPE+ Alumni generation.

As the 2024 cohort transitions into Alumni status, PPE+ Europe looks ahead to welcoming the next generation of procurement professionals. Public buyers from central purchasing bodies will be able to apply for the PPE+ Europe 2025 training programme from early April. The trainings will be a great opportunity for public buyers who have not been able to participate in the PPE+ Europe 2024 training programme. 

More information on the exact dates and deadlines of the application process will follow soon.