In 2012 the Public Service Commission (PSC), in conjunction with the Department of Finance and Services (DFS), established the Prequalification Scheme: Executive Search (The Scheme).

A general review of the Scheme, to reflect the NSW Public Sector Executive reform, took place in November 2013. In February 2014 the Scheme was put online and the Scheme was renumbered from Contract 4004 to SCM0227. This Scheme is managed by NSW Procurement and will leverage government buying power whilst providing opportunities to small and medium enterprises.

The Scheme creates a framework for the prequalification of individuals and firms who provide executive search recruitment services to NSW Government Agencies and statutory corporations.

This Scheme will evolve to continue to meet the needs of all stakeholders and brings a range of specific benefits, for both Agencies and Service Providers, including:

* Making it easier for all Service Providers to do business with NSW Government Agencies including improved access for Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs);

* The ability to join the Scheme at any time;
* A new self-service, online application process,
* Opening up of categories – allowing Service Providers to nominate the categories in which they have demonstrated capability;
* Providing hiring managers with more choice of Service Providers;
* Streamlined competitive tendering processes by accessing prequalified Service Providers with a demonstrated track record;
* Enhanced probity standards through third-party assessment and selection of Service Providers;
* Standardised Service Provider mark-ups allowing hiring managers to focus on candidate quality instead of cost;
* A significant reduction in red tape and cost in doing business with government;
* The removal of the management fee;
* Providing opportunities to SMEs;
* Encouraging SMEs to apply by removing barriers to application in capabilities and in regions
* Simplifying procurement practices; and
* A self-service, online application process.

To assist Service Providers and Agencies with their sourcing activities the Scheme is now available online and brings a range of specific benefits as follow:

* Service Providers will be able complete the online application form, select the capabilities for which they can provide services, upload the required documentation/certification and pre-agree the Scheme Conditions;

* Agencies will be able use the eQuote system to undertake online quoting activities using prequalified Service Providers and standard agreement arrangements;

* Through the eQuote system prequalified Service Providers may receive a request for services from Agencies;

* Service Providers will be able to view requests, send their intention to respond, respond to a request, ask questions, withdraw a response or decline an invitation online; 

* Agencies will be able to evaluate the responses they receive and the selected Service Provider will then only need to agree the a formal scope of works and price with an Agency.

If you require information about this Scheme please visit the ProcurePoint website (www.procurepoint.nsw.gov.au).