Sustainable Procurement: Maximising the benefits of public spending

Thursday 7th Mar 2013

7^th March, Edinburgh 

“Procurement needs to move beyond the restraints of bureaucracy and red tape and become one of the core functions which shape the economic future.” Matthew Jackson, The Power of Procurement

The focus of the agenda will be improving sustainable procurement and maximizing value for money on a ‘whole life’ basis. This builds on the belief that the cheapest solution does not necessarily represent the best value, consequently, procurement decisions should be assessed on the merits of lasting contribution. Particular attention will be given to the lateral benefits sustainable procurement can provide, specifically: economic, environmental and social progression.

The framework for the reformation process is derived from John McClelland’s (2006) report; this called for procurement practises to be improved, arguing that the substantial sums of money spent in this area could be used more effectively. Since McClellan’s report, there has been a continued drive to develop the procurement process, with the aim of achieving greater efficiency and value for money.

In 2010 the reformation strategy moved into its second phase, endorsed by the Public Procurement Reform Board. A key aspect of this phase was improved collaboration; particularly increased participation of Small and Medium sized Enterprise (SME). Whilst there has been notable progress in this area, certain barriers continue to inhibit the participation of SME. Removing these obstacles has become the principal focus of recent developments in reform. This was laid out in the ‘Procurement Reform Bill’, on which there was a recent consultation, with plans to put the Bill before parliament in 2013.

This conference will engage with the impending changes to public procurement; reflecting on the recent consultation and considering the strategy for reform. The event will also assess the main challenges posed by the current procurement process, and provide delegates with an opportunity to discuss proactive solutions with leading thinkers from the public and private sector.

Matthew Jackson, Head of Research at CLES will be speaking at the event. 

For more information including details of other speakers and the agenda click here.

To book your place click here. Make sure to say you heard about the conference through CLES/New Start!