Nick McDonald - Procurement specialist at the North East Procurement Organisation (NEPO)
Can you tell us about your role at NEPO?
I started off in the corporate services category at NEPO, managing various solutions such as NEPRO3 – Specialist Professional Services, Travel Management and Prepaid Cards.
It wasn’t long before my first major project came along, which was to develop a new iteration of NEPO’s Payment Card Services, to provide public bodies with a multi-lot, multi-supplier framework agreement for prepaid and corporate payments.
I led on improving the contract and bringing it up-to-date. However, what started off as just that, led to an unexpected expansion of our wider financial services solutions.
We undertook extensive market engagement to better understand the financial services industry, and formed an innovative partnership with the Yorkshire Purchasing Organisation and the Eastern Shire Procurement Organisation.
As well as improving our Payment Cards Services (NEPO505 contract) – we identified new digital technologies and innovations in the financial services industry, which were the catalyst for forming a brand-new Financial Services category within NEPO.
In April 2023, I was promoted to the role of procurement specialist in the newly formed Corporate Services and ICT category, which sees us procuring everything from payment cards and early payment services to ICT hardware and software
Why did you want to work at NEPO?
Having worked in the NHS for almost five years, I wanted to test my skills in a different discipline and the prospect of working, not only with regional stakeholders, but also national ones, really appealed to me.
I appreciate the clear career progression and personal development opportunities on offer at NEPO. I’m currently working towards an advanced diploma in Procurement and Supply through the globally recognised CIPS programme.
Who is in your team?
I work alongside Jake Pattison, who recently joined us as a procurement coordinator.
How has the industry changed since you began your career?
I’ve seen many changes, with the biggest being Brexit. We’ve had to navigate how the UK operates outside of the European Union. The next step-change will be the introduction of the new Procurement Act, which is likely to come into effect in October next year. This will see new procedures and processes implemented into the procurement cycle.
What do you think are the opportunities going forward?
Whilst it will be a challenge initially to implement for all public sector organisations, the Procurement Act 2024 will be a real, transformative opportunity. It will hopefully bring increased flexibility, simplicity and transparency, as well as deliver more social value and ESG commitments to improve the wellbeing of individuals, communities and the environment in the North East.
How do you like to unwind outside of work?
I’m passionate about football – both watching it and playing it. I’ve been an avid supporter of Newcastle United for over 30 years and get to as many matches as I can.
I also enjoy running, cooking and spending time with my partner and with family.
www.nepo.org