Overview
Winning a contract is only the beginning. Under the Procurement Act 2023, public sector organisations face greater scrutiny over how contracts are managed, supplier performance is monitored, and procurement decisions are made transparent. Poor contract management can lead to underperforming suppliers, compliance failures, reputational damage and increased risk of legal challenge.
This practical course will equip procurement professionals, contract managers and commercial leaders with the knowledge and tools to manage contracts confidently under the new legislation. Delegates will learn how to meet transparency obligations, monitor supplier performance, manage contract modifications, apply the Most Advantageous Tender (MAT) principles throughout the contract lifecycle, and deliver greater value for money. Through practical examples, discussions and expert guidance, participants will leave with a clear understanding of how to strengthen governance, improve supplier relationships and ensure compliance with the Procurement Act 2023.
Learning Outcomes
- Explain the key contract management and transparency requirements introduced by the Procurement Act 2023.
- Monitor supplier performance using effective governance, KPIs and performance measures.
- Apply the rules for contract modifications, extensions and ongoing compliance.
- Meet statutory transparency and publication requirements throughout the contract lifecycle.
- Evaluate supplier performance and manage contractual issues to reduce commercial risk.
- Develop an action plan to strengthen contract management within their organisation.
Agenda
09.30
Welcome and Course Introduction
- Introduce the course objectives, agenda and expected learning outcomes.
- Explore delegates’ current contract management challenges and experiences.
- Review how the Procurement Act 2023 is changing contract management and supplier oversight.
09.45
Procurement Act 2023: Contract Management Fundamentals
- Understand the principles and objectives of the Procurement Act 2023 and their impact on contract management.
- Explore the National Procurement Policy Statement (NPPS) and the governance responsibilities of contracting authorities.
- Identify the transparency, accountability and compliance requirements introduced by the new legislation.
10.45
Comfort Break
11.00
Transparency, Compliance and Supplier Performance
- Understand the transparency notices and publication requirements throughout the contract lifecycle.
- Explore excluded and excludable supplier provisions and their implications for ongoing contract management.
- Learn how to use KPIs and supplier performance monitoring to improve outcomes and reduce commercial risk.
12.30
Lunch Break
13.00
Managing Contracts Successfully
- Apply the rules governing contract modifications, extensions and variations under the Procurement Act 2023.
- Manage supplier relationships to improve performance, encourage continuous improvement and maintain compliance.
- Respond effectively to contract disputes, poor supplier performance and termination scenarios.
14.15
Afternoon Break
14.30
Maximising Value from Public Contracts
- Apply the Most Advantageous Tender (MAT) principles throughout the contract lifecycle to achieve better outcomes.
- Evaluate supplier performance against contractual obligations, social value commitments and wider public benefit objectives.
- Develop a practical action plan to strengthen contract management, transparency and supplier performance within your organisation.
15.45
Discussion and Action Planning
- Reflect on the key learning points from the day and identify priorities for implementation.
- Share best practice and discuss common contract management challenges with peers.
- Identify practical actions to strengthen commercial governance within your organisation.
16.00
Summary and Close
*Programme subject to change
Course Instructor
Paul Wright
Dr Paul Wright MCIPS MILT is a highly experienced procurement and supply chain professional with a distinguished career spanning both the public and private sectors. As an Associate Director at The Procurement Academy, Paul has spent years delivering CIPS qualifications and bespoke training solutions, guiding professionals through Level 4, 5, and 6 certifications. He has worked extensively across Europe, the USA, and the Middle and Far East, developing and delivering high-impact procurement training. Paul is also a lead tutor and assessor for CIPS Corporate Award Programmes and a key contributor to government and commercial procurement training initiatives.
With a PhD in Physics from the University of Leeds and over 25 years of procurement expertise, Paul brings deep strategic insight into public sector procurement, contract management, and compliance. He has worked on key consultancy projects for the Cabinet Office, Local Government Association, and major public bodies, providing expertise in best practice tendering, supplier negotiations, and contract governance. As co-author of Excellence in Public Sector Procurement, Paul is uniquely positioned to help delegates navigate the Procurement Act 2023, ensuring they understand the latest legal requirements and strategic opportunities within the evolving procurement landscape.
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