Tilaajia

Tilaajia is a Finnish term used in procurement to describe the actors that place orders for goods or services. In English, it is commonly understood as buyers or clients in both public and private sector procurement. The concept centers on the party that defines needs, initiates purchasing, and is responsible for contract execution with suppliers.

In public procurement, tilaajat are typically contracting authorities or procurement units within municipalities, ministries, or state-owned enterprises. Their responsibilities include identifying requirements, drafting technical and functional specifications, planning budgets, issuing tenders, evaluating bids, and awarding contracts. They also oversee contract performance and ensure compliance with applicable rules to promote competition, transparency, and non-discrimination. Public sector tilaajat operate within national laws and, in the European context, EU procurement directives.

In the private sector, tilaajat refer to the individuals or organizations that issue purchase orders and manage relationships with suppliers under agreed contractual terms. While the formal regulatory framework is less centralized than in the public sector, standard practices emphasize clear specification of needs, fair supplier evaluation, and proper contract management.

Key elements of the tilaaja role include collaboration with procurement professionals, user departments, and, when relevant, auditors or oversight bodies. The term highlights the active, commissioning side of procurement, contrasting with suppliers who respond to the tilaaja’s requests.

Notes: In Finland, public procurement processes are commonly carried out through designated channels and platforms, with adherence to national procurement legislation and, when applicable, EU requirements. The concept of tilaaja underscores the central position of the ordering party in organizing and controlling purchasing activities.