Department for Education – Schools Commercial Team Transformation
Designed and embedded new category management processes to improve procurement effectiveness across schools, driving savings and strengthening internal capability.
The Context:
The Department for Education (DfE) faced growing pressure to improve commercial outcomes for schools - particularly across technology, utilities, cleaning, and facilities management. But existing frameworks were underused, category strategies were inconsistent, and the central commercial team lacked the tools, capability, and data insight needed to drive transformation.
A new approach was required , one grounded in delivery, not just advisory.
IGS was engaged via G-Cloud 13 to lead and deliver a commercial transformation programme over 15 months.
Our Role & Approach:
Operating under a managed service model, we:
Conducted a full diagnostic of the Schools Commercial Team’s existing category strategies, processes, and data capability
Produced a transformation roadmap and recommendations report pinpointing key savings opportunities, capability gaps, and process inefficiencies
Embedded 5 delivery specialists into the programme, including a Commercial Transformation Lead and two Category Management Specialists
Developed and implemented new commercial processes including data-led reporting and performance tracking across high-spend categories
Built tools and templates to support improved decision-making, including market insight packs, outline business cases, and category communications
The Result
New category strategies adopted across key spend areas
8 team members upskilled or onboarded with new methodology and tools
Utilities and energy frameworks revalidated and approved at category CAB
2 outline business cases delivered - clearly articulating benefits, risks, and return on investment
New commercial reporting and data collection processes embedded
SRO and governance sessions strengthened with new communications packs and structured delivery updates
Identified additional savings through targeted technical analysis and cross-functional collaboration