Getting to grips with procurement: the crucial role of governors
Nick Petford, Vice-Chancellor of The University of Northampton and Chair of Procurement UK, examines the role of governors in ensuring institutions manage resources effectively.
Consorting with the consortia – the 30% target
You might think there is nothing new about collaborative procurement in higher education. After all, there are six main procurement consortia based in England that have been working with institutions for some years. They help with collaborative procurement among institutions and between HE and other sectors.
What is new is that there’s a target to hit, as set by the Diamond Report on Efficiency and Modernisation. By 2016, it is expected that 30% of non-pay spend should be through effective collaborative arrangements.
That’s a tough target, and it raises a number of questions.
University procurement: ‘Never miss an opportunity to promote what you do’
Alison Holmes, director of procurement at Durham University, talks about the important role of procurement in a higher education institution and why it should be seen as a strategic function.
Strategic sourcing in UK universities: becoming ‘intelligent customers’
Universities are beginning to discover the benefits of new business models in their dealings with suppliers, say researchers at the University of the West of England. They argue that institutions should become ‘intelligent customers’, which will involve investment in new skills, changes in culture and raising the profile of procurement and supply professionals.
Procurement update – November 2013
A roundup of news and comment about university procurement, brought to you in partnership with HEPA the professional development service for all university staff who buy goods and services.
LUPC annual conference – 26 March
LUPC's annual conference and exhibition will take place on Thursday 26 March 2015 at Senate House, London. The conference will be FREE for LUPC Members to attend.
5 ways to kick start your change programme
'The beginning is the most important part of the work' - Plato. Following ancient wisdom, Meeta Thareja and Suzie Campbell offer a starter list for your change programme. They will be speaking at the 'Strategic Sourcing: new approaches to deliver success' conference in London on 4 February.
A parade of not so beautiful beauties?
The higher education energy market is becoming increasingly competitive. Richard Murphy from the public buying organisation The Energy Consortium (TEC) warns of the hidden dangers in the contracting process and urges universities to involve a broad range of departments when procuring energy services.
Develop your procurement skills with HEPA training: 2014-15 dates announced
HEPA (Higher Education Procurement Academy) training dates have now been confirmed, with 10 courses across 5 locations during 2014-15.
Procurement training opportunities: for all staff who buy goods and services
Do you buy goods and services at your university? If so, you might be interested in this range of opportunities to develop your skills and knowledge offered by HEPA, LUPC and SPCE.
