An executive agency and trading fund of the Cabinet Office of the UK government. It was established in 2014 to bring together policy, advice, and direct buying capabilities for government procurement into a single organization. The CCS aims to improve the commercial and procurement practices across the public sector and achieve better value for money in government spending. Key responsibilities of CCS:
- Procurement: Managing the procurement of common goods and services across government, including IT, energy, professional services, and facilities management.
- Commercial Expertise: Providing commercial expertise and advice to government departments and public sector organizations, supporting them in achieving better value for money and improving their commercial capabilities.
- Frameworks and Agreements: Developing and managing a range of procurement frameworks and agreements that enable public sector organizations to access goods and services more efficiently and cost-effectively.
- Supplier Management: Managing relationships with key suppliers to government, ensuring they deliver high-quality goods and services and provide value for money.
- Policy and Guidance: Developing and implementing procurement policies and guidance, promoting best practices and ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.
- Savings and Efficiencies: Identifying and delivering savings and efficiencies through centralized procurement, aggregation of demand, and strategic sourcing.
- SME Engagement: Supporting the government’s agenda to increase the participation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in public sector procurement.
CCS works closely with government departments, public sector organizations, and suppliers to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of government procurement. It leverages the collective buying power of the government to secure better deals and drive savings, while also promoting innovation, sustainability, and social value in procurement.
Key achievements of CCS include:
- The delivery of significant savings for the public sector through centralized procurement and aggregation of demand
- The development of a wide range of procurement frameworks and agreements, making it easier for public sector organizations to access goods and services
- The promotion of SME participation in public sector procurement, supporting the government’s agenda to level the playing field for smaller suppliers
- The implementation of sustainable procurement practices, supporting the government’s environmental and social objectives
CCS plays a vital role in ensuring that government procurement delivers value for money and supports the effective delivery of public services. It continues to drive innovation and best practices in commercial and procurement activities across the UK public sector.