Mission Statement

The aim of the Purchasing Team is to enable the University to make maximum use of our non-pay resources in order that we may minimise purchasing costs and achieve value for money in the delivery of goods and services to our internal customers, whilst contributing to the overall strategic goals of the University.

Procurement Strategy

Aim:

To obtain the best value in the procurement of goods and services.

Method:

Professional expertise is concentrated on the procurement of high value and strategic goods and services where added value can be optimised. Controls and systems for the efficient procurement of more straightforward and low value purchasing items are used whenever possible and are under constant development and review (such systems currently include purchasing cards, travel cards and e-purchasing).

Procurement is devolved in specialist areas of IT, Estates, Printing & Stationery, Catering, Accommodation but overseen by a central professional team which ensures compliance with University policy (as described in Financial Policy and Procedures FIN 3) and the Law.

Elements of the strategy

  • Securing the commitment of effective procurement from Senior Managers, Deans and Heads of Service.


  • Identify and disseminate information & advice on good procurement practice.


  • Improve the training and skills development of all those involved in procurement.


  • Improve the use of management information systems including e-systems.


  • Actively support and promote Consortia, National & Co-operative purchasing contracts and agreements


  • Support the use of performance measuring benchmarking techniques and monitoring both internally and externally to the HE sector.


  • Promote procurement practices which contribute to the sustainability of the environment.


  • Analyse annual expenditure by supplier and product to identify purchasing opportunities, potential savings and adherence to the Public Procurement Regulations.


  • Promote end-user involvement and critical feedback to SUPC product affinity groups.


  • Ensure the Code of Ethics in the Purchasing Policy (FIN 3) is observed by all staff and representatives engaged in the University's procurement activities.


  • Monitor the register of Interests and Declarations from members of the governing body, senior officers and those staff with the authority to commit the University to significant amounts of expenditure.