Name:

Mike Sennitt

Position:

Director-Corporate Services

Number of properties and location:

Circa 4,500 in Devon & Cornwall.

What consultancy work did PfH undertake for your organisation? What exactly did this involve?

PfH undertook a review of our procurement arrangements and practices. Following the review the consultant brought together the disparate procurement activities used within the Association into a new procurement strategy, action plan and also introduced the concept of a contracts register which staff could access to source best value buying opportunities.

Why did you choose PfH to help with this work?

We chose PfH as we wanted a consultant who had knowledge of the drivers and stresses within social housing and, therefore, could bring examples of best practice used within the sector.

What were the aims of this work?

The main aim was to update and bring consistency to procurement decisions supported by a robust procurement framework and strategy.

What was the time scale involved?

The project was completed within approximately six weeks which included interviewing staff, drafting the strategy and action plan and training on the use of the contracts register.

What benefits have you seen so far and what results do you think will be generated in the future?

The obvious benefits of having an up-to-date procurement strategy which is relevant for a registered social landlord AND specifically addressed the activities of Westcountry has enabled the Association to identify many areas of procurement gains. It has also helped to set targets for more demanding procurement efficiencies in our short and medium term financial plans.

What would you say to other housing organisations that are considering becoming a PfH member and using PfH's consultancy services?

Just ask PfH - we did, and we got a good result.