Treasury Advisor Services

Kim Frater, founder of Bid Trawler
Written by Kim Frater
Former Public Sector Buyer • Founder of Bid Trawler • 40+ years' public sector experience
"I believe public procurement shouldn't be complicated. Every guide I write explains the process in plain English so you can bid with confidence."

2 minute read  •  Updated September 2026

A practical guide to understanding what the buyer really wants and how to build a winning response.

Don't just focus on the numbers

This is about more than just crunching figures.

Yorkshire Housing is looking for a treasury advisor who can deliver strategic insight, not just financial analysis.

They need someone who understands their unique challenges and can guide them through complex financial landscapes.

The contract covers advisory services for a period from 1 December 2026 to 30 November 2029, with the potential to extend to 30 November 2031.

Think about their strategic goals

Yorkshire Housing isn't just interested in short-term financial management.

They're looking for a partner who can contribute to their long-term financial health and sustainability.

Consider how your advice can align with their strategic objectives.

For example, how can your expertise help them achieve their growth plans or manage risks more effectively?

Pay attention to what they say

One thing to note from the tender is the emphasis on being "suitably qualified and experienced".

This isn't just about having a degree or a few years in the field.

They want a partner who has proven experience in the housing sector, who understands the nuances of their business.

That's crucial.

Evidence always beats promises

One thing I noticed when I worked in the public sector was that almost every bidder claimed to deliver an excellent service.

Very few proved it.

If you have evidence, use it.

  • Case studies from similar clients
  • Testimonials from housing associations
  • Examples of successful advisory projects
  • Certifications or industry recognition

Remember the people behind the numbers

It's easy to get caught up in the financials.

But remember, your advice will impact real people.

Think about the residents, the communities and the staff who rely on Yorkshire Housing's services.

Show how your advisory work will ultimately benefit them.

The importance of consistency over time

This contract stretches over several years.

Yorkshire Housing will want to know you can maintain high standards throughout.

That means demonstrating how you'll handle staff continuity, adapt to changes and ensure your advice remains relevant.

Consider the local context

Yorkshire and The Humber have unique economic and social factors.

Your advice should reflect an understanding of the local market and its challenges.

How familiar are you with the regional housing market dynamics?

Show how you'll make life easier for Yorkshire Housing

Every contract creates work for the client.

The best advisors reduce that workload.

If I were writing this tender, I'd be explaining how my processes make life easier for Yorkshire Housing's finance team.

Common mistakes

Avoid submissions that:

  • Focus solely on technical financial analysis without strategic insight
  • Lack evidence of past success in the housing sector
  • Ignore the local economic context
  • Fail to address long-term engagement and consistency
  • Overlook the impact on end users
  • Provide generic responses not tailored to Yorkshire Housing's needs
  • Neglect to demonstrate understanding of regional housing market dynamics

My Final Thoughts

Yorkshire Housing is looking for more than just financial advice.

They want a partner who understands their strategic vision and can help them achieve it.

With a contract value of £45,000, spanning up to five years, your written submission should emphasise the quality of your advice.

The buyer isn't just looking for the lowest price.

They're looking for a partner they can trust.

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.

Kim
Founder, Bid Trawler

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.

kim@bidtrawler.com

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About our "How to Win This Contract" guides

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.

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