‘Consortia’: New ways of working

Nick GibsonChair ConsortiCo

2012

Progressing into Partnership

• Context:- policy drivers underpinning ConsortiCo

• Consortia models:- advantages and disadvantages.

• How we built a consortium:- life cycle of ConsortiCo

Policy Drivers

• Public Service Delivery – EU Reviewed Working Services Directive in 2002– 2006 (1st Jan) Public Contracts Regulations

“ to open up purchasing so that there is a single market across the EU and to increase competitiveness for contracts funded by public money”

“value for money enforced through competition”

Policy Drivers

• The Gershon Review (July 2004):- ‘Releasing Resources to the Frontline’

“Review of public sector efficiencies including Procurement”“Emphasised the need for Collaborative Procurement”

Policy Drivers

• Third Sector Review (Dec 2007): The Future Role of the Third Sector in Economic and Social Regeneration: HMT & OTS Priorities for 2008-11

“work on looking in detail at sub- contracting arrangements and models for consortia, and the implications of regional and sub regional commissioning on third sector organisations”

Why consort?

• Collaborative purchasing leads to consortia procurement

• Shift from grants to contracts• Risk is being transferred• 25% of turnover, guidance

Consortia Models

Lead Contractor

Formal Consortium

Building a Consortium

• Are your Board and Management team aware of the future direction of Public Sector contracting in your area/region?

• Are you incorporated?• Governing Docs: Powers to trade, work in

partnership and area of op.

Building a Consortium

Find compatible partners and then:•Explore shared vision, mission, aims, •Memorandum of Understanding:- Legal Form•Find some money•Develop a joint business plan inc budget•Membership Prospectus•Appointment of staff•Tender Proposals

ConsortiCo

• Formal Consortia Operating Structure Agreement:- June 2009

• Incorporation Date:- May 2010• Membership Prospectus issued:- July 2010• Membership at start:- 8• Membership now:- over 50 Charities• Future Options Report:- February 2012