Competencies for Effective Public Procurement

As job roles evolve to become more strategic for effective public procurement, this chapter explores the role of practical, real-life case studies as a tool for developing soft skills such as creativity, inventiveness, and strategic thinking in public procurement. Soft skills deviate from traditional cognitive skills and need other approaches and assessments to be implemented effectively. By integrating real-life case studies, readers are guided through complex procurement challenges that reflect the strategic, legal, and social dimensions of public-sector purchasing. These cases provide a structured approach to complex problem-solving, emphasising the practical application of theoretical knowledge. The case studies navigate issues such as sustainability, stakeholder alignment, and user-centric design in procurement. Through analysing and presenting procurement solutions, the cases offer insights into the complexities of public procurement and acquire diverse skills, including strategic alignment, innovative problem-solving, and collaboration. This chapter highlights how structured real-life case study exercises can enhance the learning experience, equipping future procurement professionals with the soft skills required to meet the evolving demands of public organisations. Instructions for implementing alternative learning and assessment methods are provided to support this goal, helping demonstrate the increasing significance of soft skills in public procurement. Overall, this chapter serves as a valuable resource for procurement practitioners, lecturers, students, and researchers seeking to deepen their understanding of soft skills in public procurement and effectively learn these competencies.