Change Management for Local Government Procurement Success

Change in local government procurement can be challenging. With deeply embedded processes, policies, and long-standing supplier relationships, transformation can feel overwhelming. But in today’s fast-paced environment, sticking to “the way we’ve always done things” is no longer sustainable.

Whether it’s adapting to new technologies, shifting legislation, or evolving market expectations, local government procurement teams must embrace change—or risk falling behind.

The Risks of Poor Change Management in Local Government Procurement

Local government procurement isn’t just about purchasing goods and services—it’s about ensuring public funds are spent efficiently, transparently, and in alignment with policy and community outcomes. Without a structured change management approach, councils and agencies risk the following:

• Resistance from stakeholders – Without clear communication, procurement teams, internal departments, and suppliers may push back against changes if they don’t understand the reasons or benefits.

• Operational inefficiencies – Poorly executed changes can create bottlenecks, delay processes, inflate costs, and impact service delivery.

• Compliance risks – Regulatory frameworks like the VGPB and Local Jobs First are constantly evolving. Failing to adapt could result in audit issues, penalties, or reputational harm.

• Missed strategic opportunities – Procurement should enable value and impact, not just cost savings. Managing change well opens doors to innovation, sustainability, and local economic growth.

How Councils Can Drive Effective Local Government Procurement Change

So how can councils ensure change is successful and sustainable in local government procurement?

1. Design a Clear Business Case for Change

Start with clarity. Whether you’re introducing a new procurement platform, aligning with updated social procurement objectives, or refining supplier evaluation, define the “why”. A strong business case builds confidence and sets the direction for everyone involved.

2. Engage Stakeholders Early

People fear what they don’t understand. Bring procurement teams, business units, suppliers, and leadership into the conversation early. Use workshops, regular updates, and feedback loops to create transparency and build buy-in across the organisation.

3. Smart Tech Integration and Training

Change should make local government procurement smarter—not more complex. Whether implementing e-procurement platforms or AI-based supplier assessment tools, success depends on process alignment and proper training. If teams aren’t confident using new tools, they won’t deliver results.

4. Ensure Policy Alignment and Compliance

Procurement policies and regulations in local government are always shifting. Keeping pace with frameworks like VGPB and Local Jobs First isn’t optional—it’s essential. Align your processes to these mandates from day one to avoid costly risks and inefficiencies.

5. Measure Impact and Refine

Transformation doesn’t end with implementation. Establish clear metrics—such as cost savings, local supplier engagement, or compliance improvements—and regularly review them. This ensures your change strategy delivers long-term impact and continues to evolve with the needs of your community.

Sedo Group’s Support for Local Government Procurement Teams

At Sedo Group, we specialise in strategic and social procurement—and we understand that change management is the key to making it all work. We partner with local government procurement teams to:

• Train staff to confidently adopt new tools, policies, and systems

• Ensure procurement change aligns with compliance and community outcomes

• Integrate digital solutions that streamline processes without overwhelming teams.

Change in local government procurement isn’t just inevitable—it’s essential. But when poorly managed, it can create more obstacles than opportunities. By focusing on communication, smart technology, compliance, and continuous improvement, procurement teams can lead change with confidence and create real impact.