Published
By CPC Helpdesk
The Department for Education, in conjunction with CIPS, has launched a campaign to increase awareness of the value of procurement and finance skills on school/trust governing bodies. Further information on the campaign is outlined below.
The value of commercial skills on school and trust boards
Governors and Trustees are crucial to ensuring effective financial management and value for money in education.
Wendy Burdon at DfE has recently launched an exciting campaign as part of the Enhancing Schools' Commercial Capability Project, encouraging commercial professionals to volunteer their expertise to help schools thrive. The Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS), Government Commercial Function (GCF) and World Commerce & Contracting (WCC) are supporting this important work, alongside CST, NGA and Governors for Schools.
Why commercial skills matter
The largest schools and trusts manage multi-million-pound budgets. Having commercially skilled trustees helps ensure robust procurement, effective contract management and optimal use of resources, as well as bringing additional skills in areas such as social value and sustainability.
Making an impact
A board member with commercial expertise can provide strategic oversight of procurement and contracts while supporting you in achieving value for money. Their experience in supplier relationship management and risk evaluation will be invaluable in guiding you through complex purchasing decisions and ensuring compliance with regulations, particularly important as the new Procurement Act 2023 has just gone live.
Nexus Multi-Academy Trust’s experience
"Having procurement and commercial expertise on a board can unlock tremendous value, not only through traditional routes such as cost savings but by enabling outcomes that transform lives. At Nexus, procurement has been a catalyst for change, from achieving the globally recognised CIPS Procurement Excellence Award to embedding innovations like biophilic design in our estate. These have not only delivered savings and helped us unlock resources but also created educational environments that are fit for purpose, inclusive, and tailored to the needs of students and communities", said Gillian Askew FCIPS, Trustee.
"For individuals with these skills, volunteering as a governor or trustee is deeply rewarding. It offers a chance to use your expertise and deliver great governance to projects that directly impact young people’s futures, whether that’s ensuring best value in everyday contracts, delivering standout initiatives like biophilic learning spaces or helping to link employability opportunities within the supply chain to your students. It’s a role that challenges you professionally while providing the satisfaction of knowing your contributions help deliver the very best for children and families. Procurement, when aligned with the needs of education, is far more than a function, it can be a game-changer."
What can you do?
If you have a vacancy on your governing board, consider recruiting someone with commercial or procurement skills. You can find out more information on the Governors for Schools campaign page and also register your vacancies.