Provision of Insurance and Related Services to One Manchester
A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.
This isn't just about insurance policies
When you look at this tender, it's easy to think that it's all about providing insurance cover.
But One Manchester is buying more than just policies.
They're looking for a partnership that delivers peace of mind.
The contract includes a wide range of insurance services covering property, legal liability and other non-life insurable risks. It's an extensive programme requiring financial stability and a high level of service.
Think about the people behind the contract
One Manchester isn't just a name.
It's an organisation with real concerns and responsibilities.
Their priority is to protect their assets and manage liabilities effectively.
If I were evaluating bids, I'd want to know how you’ll make life easier for the people managing these risks.
Pay attention to what they say
One Manchester clearly values choice and flexibility.
They mention "a choice of suitable insurers and/or suitable cover options".
This isn't about offering a one-size-fits-all solution.
It's about tailoring your offering to meet their specific needs.
Show them you understand this by detailing how you can provide that flexibility.
What most bidders will write
Many will focus on listing the types of coverage they can offer.
They'll talk about policy details, limits and exclusions.
But that's just the starting point.
What you should write instead
I'd focus on how you deliver those services.
Explain your process for managing claims and how you handle client relationships.
Evidence always beats promises.
- Provide examples of how you've managed similar contracts
- Include testimonials from satisfied clients
- Share performance metrics that demonstrate reliability and effectiveness
The role of your service team
One Manchester requires a skilled and competent service team.
They mention client relationship management, insurance claims management and risk management.
If I were writing this tender, I'd detail how my team works together seamlessly.
Show how your team anticipates problems before they arise.
Quality service is non-negotiable
They’re clear about needing quality service.
That includes service from any third-party contractors you employ.
This means you must demonstrate not just your capabilities, but also those of your partners.
Financial stability is key
They require insurers with a minimum 'A-' rating.
This isn't just a box to tick.
It's about ensuring you have the financial backing to support One Manchester through the contract term.
Holding standards over the whole term
A contract running until 2030, or potentially 2032, demands consistency.
Explain how you manage staff turnover, maintain service levels and ensure continuous improvement.
Long-term partnerships require commitment and a proactive approach to challenges.
Common mistakes
Avoid submissions that:
- Assume one insurance solution fits all
- Fail to demonstrate financial stability clearly
- Overlook the importance of a cohesive service team
- Ignore the need for third-party contractor quality
- Focus only on policy details without service delivery
- Forget to provide evidence of past performance
- Offer inflexible coverage options
- Disregard the importance of client relationship management
My Final Thoughts
One Manchester is looking for a partner they can trust, not just a service provider.
The contract is valued at £8,150,000 over a three-year term, extendable to five years.
That’s a significant commitment.
With quality carrying a broader scope than price alone, your written submission is crucial.
Focus on demonstrating reliability, flexibility and a deep understanding of 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.