Foreword from 'Corporate Procurement Strategy' 2011. 
(For the full document, see the 'Downloads' section)  

It is with great pleasure that I am again able to provide a foreword for the Corporate Procurement Strategy, which is now in its eighth year.

The Corporate Procurement Strategy provides a framework for the Council to obtain value in all its procurement activities. The strategy addresses all elements of procurement activity, from identifying the need, considering options, procuring the appropriate goods, services or works, effective supplier and contract management, through to the disposal of assets. The strategy also addresses the many solutions available to the Council, from establishing corporate contracts, using collaborative and consortia arrangements, through to developing long-term strategic partnerships.

This strategy continues to provide a clear focus on balancing two priorities:

• identifying and delivering efficiencies, but not at the expense of quality, and
• developing and embracing sustainable procurement.

More than ever before, public sector finance is under significant pressure and procurement has a significant role to play in reducing the Council’s expenditure. Even in the current climate, I still firmly believe that the above two priorities can continue to be reconciled through adopting a mixed economy approach and evaluating on the basis of whole life costs with due regard to risk.

The current economic climate makes it equally important for the Council to maintain its commitment to supporting the local economy and improving opportunities for businesses to engage with the Council.

The Council’s Contract Procedure Rules have again been reviewed and revised. They not only reflect current best practice and legislative changes, but also provide a framework to enable all the Council’s buyers to demonstrate value for money whilst taking account of sustainability issues.

The Contract Procedure Rules and this Corporate Procurement Strategy are supported by a Code of Practice and corporate systems that provide guidance and support for all officers of the Council who procure goods, services and works.

Councillor Graham Stokes
Cabinet Member and Corporate Performance Portfolio Holder