Buckinghamshire Council’s head of strategic procurement recognised for international excellence

The international organisation for excellence in procurement and supply has recognised Buckinghamshire Council’s head of strategic procurement Cael Sendell-Price with its Young Talent excellence award.

The Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) award recognised Cael’s achievements as one of the youngest heads of council procurement in the country, with responsibility for advising on a budget of up to £460m per annum and £1.6bn of live contracts.

Cllr Katrina Wood, Cabinet Member for Resources, said: “Congratulations to Cael, whose achievement reflects the highest standards that we have set for our new council. By setting rules for the way we procure goods and services, and following them throughout the organisation, we make the best possible use of our available resources at all times. This is especially important at the moment.”

After receiving his award at a virtual ceremony, Cael said: “I feel honoured to be recognised by my peers and CIPS. This excellent group of professionals works especially hard across the public and private sector, not least during the current climate, to support wider society and protect the vulnerable. The awards showcased some really talented individuals and organisations, and I was surprised to have won. Whilst it was an online awards ceremony, I hope one day we can all celebrate together!”

The judges noted: “Cael has certainly risen very quickly into a key role in a local authority, impressively collating several council procurement functions into one. This would have taken significant leadership, maturity of approach and stakeholder management skills, especially considering his young age and academic duties.”

Cael was up against stiff competition from some excellent finalists from other organisations including BAE Systems, Dyson Technology and Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust.

Also currently a working Magistrate, Cael struggled at school due to dyslexia which was only later diagnosed, but is now working on a self-funded PhD in Public Procurement. He started as a trainee strategic procurement officer, later joining the Local Government Development Programme which aims to equip people with the skills to become future directors and chief executives.