Parking Attendants
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
This isn't just about parking
When I see a tender like this, I don't just think about managing cars.
I think about managing experiences.
The University of Exeter is looking for more than just parking attendants.
They want a team that can ensure every visitor feels welcomed and valued.
From the moment they arrive on campus to the moment they leave.
The contract covers a wide range of events, from graduation ceremonies to student recruitment days.
Every one of these events is a chance to make a lasting impression.
Think about the visitors
Who are the people coming to these events?
Potential students, their families and alumni.
Each one has different needs and expectations.
The University wants them to feel safe and secure.
But more than that, they want them to have a positive experience.
If I were writing this bid, I'd focus on how my team will cater to these diverse needs.
Pay attention to what they say
The University has been clear about what matters.
They want "suitably trained, customer-focussed personnel."
This means your staff need to be more than just parking attendants.
They need to be ambassadors for the University.
Your response should detail how you will train your team to handle this role.
Evidence always beats promises
If I were evaluating bids, I'd be looking for proof, not just promises.
How have you delivered similar services before?
Have you worked on large-scale events?
What was the feedback from those events?
Evidence is powerful.
- Customer testimonials
- Case studies from similar contracts
- Data on event success rates
These are the things that will set you apart.
Managing vehicle movements and safety
Yes, managing vehicle movements is part of the job.
But it's not just about directing traffic.
It's about ensuring pedestrian safety and accessibility.
Especially during busy times like Welcome Weekend or graduation.
I'd explain how my team is trained to handle these specific challenges.
Keeping standards high throughout the term
Consistency is key.
The University will want to know that you can maintain high standards over the entire contract period.
From November 2026 to November 2029.
How will you ensure your staff are always at their best?
Think about staff turnover, training refreshers and regular performance reviews.
This is where many bids fall short.
One thing I'd keep reminding myself
This isn't just about logistics.
It's about people.
Every interaction your team has is a reflection on the University.
I'd be asking myself, "How can we make every visitor feel special?"
That mindset will shine through in your submission.
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Focus only on the logistics of parking without considering visitor experience
- Fail to provide evidence of past success in similar roles
- Overlook the importance of staff training and customer service
- Ignore the need for consistency over the full contract term
- Assume basic traffic management skills are enough
- Forget to address accessibility and pedestrian safety
- Lack a clear plan for handling peak times and large events
My Final Thoughts
The University of Exeter is looking for a partner who understands that this contract is about more than just parking.
It's about creating a positive impression for every visitor.
With a contract value of £149,000 over three years, the focus on quality and customer experience will be crucial.
The value isn't just in the price.
It's in how well you can articulate your approach to delivering a seamless and welcoming experience.
That's what I'd build my submission around.
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.