How we do it

So what is involved in the process?

Stage one – Initiate the audit

This stage will involve us meeting with the bursar or school business manager and defining the scope and objectives of the audit.  This would include identifying key suppliers and relationships, understanding any issues or problems that need to be addressed and ensuring that any other personnel involved in the project are ‘on board’.  We will also define the ‘baseline’ on which cost savings will be calculated.

Stage two – Research

Minerva will then conduct the necessary research and data gathering to gain an in-depth understanding of your purchases, suppliers, relationships and processes.  In addition we will identify potential suppliers and prioritise the opportunities.

We have an extensive list of suppliers we recommend but will always consider your existing supplier or any local preferences you may have.

We specialise in the independent school and academies sector and we include many suppliers who do exactly the same thus ensuring that they have the necessary understanding of your industry.

Also at this stage we will create specifications for each category of spend, engage with potential suppliers and negotiate on your behalf.

Stage three – Present

At this stage we will prepare and present our findings.  Our report will include a full breakdown of savings identified, recommended suppliers and suggested changes for your procurement processes.

Stage four – Implementation

Whilst not a part of our core offering, Minerva will be happy to engage with the school to deliver the findings of our audit.  This would involve preparing an implementation plan, completion of any documentation, assisting in the transition from old supplier to new (if necessary), communicating changes with key personnel and supporting any additional training required.