This report seeks Cabinet approval to procure a Strategic Partner to support the delivery of Local Government Reorganisation across Oxfordshire. The proposed procurement is intended not only to enable a safe and legally compliant transition to new unitary arrangements, but to support a transformation-led approach that redesigns services, operating models and system working. The Strategic Partner will operate at system level, working across councils and partners to translate ambition into deliverable plans, develop future operating models, and support implementation before and after vesting. Cabinet approval is required as this constitutes a key decision, committing the Council to a significant procurement and enabling delegated authority to progress and award the contract.
Decision type: Key
Reason Key: - Revenue Expenditure > £1m;
Decision status: For Determination
Notice of proposed decision first published: 12/06/2026
Decision due: 14 Jul 2026 by Cabinet
Lead member: Cabinet Member for Local Government Reorganisation and Human Resources
Lead director: Deputy Chief Executive (Section 151 Officer)
Contact: Lauren Doggett, Programme Manager - LGR Reorganisation.
Consultation process
Plan to take this to informal cabinet, the portfolio holder, a small working group of representatives from councils across the system, OCC legal and finance.
Consultees
Please note that the lead director is actually the Programme Director for Local Government Reorganisation (not the Chief Exec) but they don't appear on the drop down list
Plan Reference: 26/151
Reason No Public Access: None