Internal Audit Services
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
Trust isn't just in the title
Audit is about trust.
Yes, you're delivering a service.
But One Manchester is looking for a partner they can rely on to safeguard their operations and ensure compliance.
This contract isn't just about checking boxes.
It's about providing assurance to One Manchester and their stakeholders that risks are managed, and controls are effective.
The contract covers the delivery of a comprehensive, independent and risk-based Internal Audit service for One Manchester Limited and its entities.
Don't overlook the strategic focus
One Manchester wants more than compliance.
They require a Strategic Internal Audit Plan that aligns with their broader objectives and risk profile.
Many bidders will focus on the mechanics of audit delivery.
But if I were evaluating bids, I'd be looking for how well you understand their strategic goals and how your audit plan supports them.
Show how you will tailor your approach to their unique context.
Think about coordination, not just auditing
The description highlights coordination with external auditors and other assurance providers.
This isn't just a tick-box exercise.
It's about adding value and ensuring a cohesive assurance framework.
I'd want to see how you'll work collaboratively to maximise the audit's impact and avoid duplication.
Evidence always beats promises
One thing I noticed when I worked in the public sector was that almost every bidder claimed to deliver excellent service.
Very few proved it.
In this tender, evidence is crucial.
- Case studies demonstrating successful audits in similar organisations
- Testimonials from satisfied clients
- Examples of strategic audit planning
- Metrics showing the effectiveness of past audits
If you have evidence, use it.
Pay attention to what they say
One Manchester is clear about what's important.
The documents talk about a "comprehensive, independent and risk-based" service.
That's not just boilerplate.
It's a sign of what they're looking for.
Your response should address these themes directly.
Remember the people behind the contract
Behind every audit are real people who need assurance and guidance.
Think about the stakeholders at One Manchester — from senior leaders to operational staff.
How will your approach to internal audit make their lives easier and support their objectives?
That's a question worth keeping front of mind.
Keep standards consistent over the term
Consistency is key in a long-term contract.
The buyer will want assurance that standards won't slip after the first year.
I'd be keen to see a plan for maintaining quality over the contract's duration, especially if it extends to 2032.
How will you handle staff changes, unforeseen challenges and evolving risk profiles?
Show how you'll make life easier for One Manchester
Every contract creates work for the client.
The best contractors reduce that workload.
If I were writing this tender, I'd be explaining how my processes streamline audit activities and integrate seamlessly with One Manchester's systems.
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Focus solely on technical audit processes without addressing strategic alignment
- Lack evidence of past success in similar contexts
- Overlook the importance of coordination with other assurance providers
- Ignore the need for a comprehensive and independent service
- Fail to demonstrate how you'll maintain quality over the contract term
- Present a generic audit plan rather than a tailored approach
- Miss the importance of engaging with One Manchester's stakeholders
My Final Thoughts
One Manchester isn't just looking for an audit service.
They're seeking a partner to help them navigate risks and achieve their strategic objectives.
With a contract value of £945,000 over an initial three years, quality is likely to carry significant weight in the evaluation.
This means your written submission will be crucial.
Focus on demonstrating a strategic, evidence-backed approach that aligns with their needs.
Thanks for reading.
I hope this guide has helped make public procurement feel a little less daunting. If it has, then it's done its job.
P.S. Got a question?
If you've got a question about anything you've read, or you're stuck on a tender, just send me an email.
Whether it's a quick question or you simply need pointing in the right direction, I'm always happy to help if I can.
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Our guides are written using publicly available procurement information, including contract notices and published tender documents where available. They are designed to help suppliers understand the buyer's likely priorities and think more strategically about their approach. They are not based on any bidder's confidential submission, bespoke bid strategy or non-public procurement information.