Housing Associations
The combined threats of impending government spending cuts and private property sector difficulties has seriously damaged the financial stability of many construction companies and not even the largest companies have escaped the downturn (e.g. the recent demise of Connaught and Rok). This in turn has increased supply chain risks to housing associations and means that it is all the more crucial that they review their procurement and supply chains to ensure that costs are reduced and supply chain risks understood and managed effecftively. The BSA is well placed to support this challenge, and below are examples of procurement support we've delivered in the sector:
Case Study no.1
We've recently conducted a thorough procurement audit at one of the largest housing associations in the UK. We were subsequently asked by the client to manage its procurement function - this has included cost reduction, contract management and capability development. Our work has provided the client with:
- a procurement strategy;
- a greater understanding of supply spends, who the suppliers are, and how they're being utilised;
- reassurance that the significant weaknesses previously highlighted in the management of contracts are being addressed;
- support in the re-tendering of higher value/risk contracts;
- internal efficiency gains identified and actioned;
- a reduced exposure to supply chain risks;
- major cost savings across a range of overhead costs;
- purchasing skills training;
- a more streamlined set of internal procurement processes.
Case Study no.2
A smaller housing association sought reassurance that its procurement practices were delivering value for money. They asked the BSA to provide an independent audit of the function and then subsequently asked us to deliver ongoing procurement support - including staff training, internal process improvement, strategy advice and cost reduction.
Testimonial
"Since meeting the team at the BSA some 18 months ago we have been delighted with the procurement advice and training they have given our staff and management board, enabling us to achieve efficiencies through improved purchasing practices whilst meeting regulatory requirements. The next phase for us is to integrate an automated purchasing process within our current accounting framework and we look forward to working with the BSA and their extremely professional consultants to implement this."(Tim Knight, Finance Director, Severn Vale Housing Society)
If you have concerns that your own Housing Association's procurement capabilities may have weaknesses or have other related concerns (e.g. governance and compliance issues, supplier performance, cost or cash flow challenges) and would value some independent expert advice and support, then please call us on 0845 5553344.
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