Issue - items at meetings - Commissioning & Procurement Transformation Update

The purpose of this report is to provide Cabinet with an update on the commissioning and procurement centre of expertise, including the outcome of a review into the future of the combined commissioning & procurement functions.

The report also highlights a major change in October 2024 with the introduction of new procurement legislation that will influence much of what the Council purchases.

In addition, the report seeks approval for the BCP Council Procurement and Contract Management Strategy 2024 - 2029, setting out the approach the council will take in all significant procurement activity.

RESOLVED that Cabinet: -

(a) Noted the content of this report on the progress, challenges and next steps in the Council’s Commissioning & Procurement approaches;

(b) Noted the outcome of the officer review of the combined commissioning and procurement centre of expertise and the intention to separate the functions;

(c) Noted the Council’s preparations for implementation of the Procurement Act 2023, and the opportunities for continued development of the contract management and procurement approach, including the establishment of a contracts and procurement board; and

(d) Approves the BCP Council Procurement & Contracts Management Strategy 2024 - 2028

Voting: Unanimous

Portfolio Holder: Transformation and Resources

Reason

An effective corporate approach to procurement and contract management is crucial in the light of ever challenging budget reductions and the delivery of the future legislative challenges to ensure internal compliance and delivery of best value for the residents of the area.

The Portfolio Holder for Transformation and Resources presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'G' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.

Cabinet was advised that the purpose of the report was to provide Cabinet with an update on the commissioning and procurement centre of expertise, including the outcome of a review into the future of the combined commissioning & procurement functions.

Cabinet was informed that the report also highlighted a major change in October 2024 with the introduction of new procurement legislation that will influence much of what the Council purchases.

Cabinet was advised that the report was seeking approval for the BCP Council Procurement and Contract Management Strategy 2024 - 2029, setting out the approach the council will take in all significant procurement activity.