5.5 The Need for Prior Consultation

Prior consultation with one or more of the Category Buyers (Appendix A) is required when the value of the proposed purchase is high or where importation or any other specialist procurement arrangements are anticipated (e.g. advance payments, lease type agreements). Where specialised off-loading or customised installation or accommodation is likely to be a requirement then Estates must be consulted at the earliest opportunity.

All necessary internal governance procedures require to be satisfied prior to procurement activity being completed, examples being the Business Portfolio Board, Architectural Steering Group, Design Authority and Information Governance Risk Assessment.

Please be mindful of the approval procedures and authorisation requirements when considering hiring consultants. For more details on the procedures and the definition of consultancy, See Hiring Consultants.