PARTNERSHIPS: A COMMISSIONER'S VIEWJulie Sexton

Senior Manager: Programme DeliveryGreater London Authority

Delivering in partnership is good, but it is not without risks.

– What makes for a successful delivery partnership

– Some of the things that don’t

– Steps you can take to make your delivery partnership work.

• Mutual interests & shared benefits

• Good communication which builds trust

• Clear roles and responsibilities

• Shared understanding

• Plan for change

• Don’t wait for a bidding round

SOME KEY INGREDIENTS FOR SUCCESS

• Commissioners cannot protect subs if there’s a disagreement with the lead delivery partner

• So be prepared for the worst:

– Agree terms before you agree to be a partner on a bid

– Read your contract

– Get clarification (in plain written English)

– Understand procedures for raising and managing complaints and disagreements

PREPARE FOR THE WORST

Make sure you go in with your eyes open!

Ask about

•Financial penalties, fees, fines and charges

•Payment terms, including why payments might be delayed or held back

•Evidence and reporting requirements

•Contract termination triggers

WATCH OUT FOR SHARKS

• The benefits of a successful delivery partnership, shouldn’t be understated.

• But it pays to be prepared, and time invested up-front pays off later.

IN SUMMARY

• The benefits of a successful delivery partnership, shouldn’t be understated.

• But it pays to be prepared, and time invested up-front pays off later.

IN SUMMARY