Purpose of the Module

To understand the basics of public procurement and commercial contracting – how the council selects, appoints and works with contractors and the role of councillors.

Perfect for

• Any councillor in a leadership role
• Councillors holding relevant portfolios e.g. finance and partnerships
• Councillors involved in scrutiny of major projects/outsourcings

Module Content

• How a council goes about procuring its supplies, services and major projects including
• Engaging with suppliers
• The council’s own rules and the wider legal framework
• Social and environmental issues
• Selecting and appointing suppliers
• Running the contracts – management, monitoring and scrutiny
• The role of councillors in procurement and contracts – things to watch out for.

Skills Framework

Addresses all the skills but particularly

• Local leadership
• Partnership working
• Political understanding
• Scrutiny and challenge

Outcomes

That councillors understand the legal framework and local rules regulating the procurement of contractors and are confident in their role.