In the next instalment of our Spotlight Series, which will allow you to get to know the Procure Partnerships Framework team better with a selection of quick-fire questions, we will be focusing on Lauren Banks who is responsible for supporting the development of projects in the West.
Lauren joined the Procure Partnerships Framework team in June 2020 with a wealth of knowledge having previously worked for our Contract Partners Vinci. Lauren covers a particularly large part of the Country, including the West Midlands, South West and South Wales.
How would you describe your role?
“My role is extremely varied from having regular meetings with our contractor partners to assisting our Public Sector clients with the best solution for their projects. All the projects we procure through the framework are so different in each region with each having different challenges and niches which is what makes my job so different day to day.”
Having worked with Procure Partnerships Framework for just over a year now what has your experience been like so far?
“My experience so far at Procure Partnerships Framework has been nothing but positive, it’s been so nice to meet so many different people from different parts of the country and getting to see projects that have started as a conversation turn into a building that everyone can use. I have been with Procure Partnerships for just over a year now and have really enjoyed learning from the people I work with and seeing the impact we can make on the Public Sector.”
You cover the West Midlands, South West and South Wales what is your favourite thing about covering these regions?
“My favourite thing about my patch is that each region I look after is completely different, I often go to Birmingham and Bristol and both cities are amazing in their own unique way! Another thing that is my favourite about my patches is that they are extremely picturesque, South Wales has one of the most amazing coastal lines and the South West has the beautiful Dorset and Cornwall!”
Our Framework users in the West have grown significantly since taking up your position as Key Account Manager, who are some of your clients so far?
“My existing Framework users include Bristol City Council, Bristol University, Plymouth City Council, Dudley Metropolitan BC, University of Wolverhampton, Herefordshire Council, Royal Cornwall NHS, University of South Wales, University of Gloucestershire, Devon & Cornwall Constabulary and many others. It’s been really great to support all of these Public Sector bodies to really understand their needs for these projects.”
Your Regions are clearly developing nicely since becoming part of the National Framework in 2019, what can we expect to see over the next year?
“We’ve recently had some exciting projects come through the framework which are awaiting contractor award and are about to start on site so I’m really looking forward to seeing those come to life. I’m also starting to meet people face to face a lot more which I’m glad to be getting back to!”
What type of projects do you hope to work on in the future?
“I would really like to be involved with a project that will really make a difference to the local communities. A lot of the contractor partners that we have on the West Frameworks have delivered some excellent examples of Social Value which is a really important element to the framework.
My favourite types of schemes are community hubs and leisure centres, they not only bring the community together but they’re there to support them and improve people’s lifestyles.”
Outside of work what are some of your hobbies and interests?
“Outside of work I spend a lot of time with my dog Milo who enjoys being taken for walks a lot. I also really enjoy reading; I get through quite a few books which I suppose isn’t surprising considering I did an English Literature Degree. I love spending time with my friends and family and have a real interest in Interior Design, I’m currently doing a short course in my spare time which is really fun and I’m always painting and changing my house around. My ultimate goal one day would be to write a novel, but I think I’ll leave that with the professionals, but you never know!”
If you would like to get in touch with Lauren to discuss working with Procure Partnerships Framework in West Midlands, South West and South Wales, She will be happy to hear from you and can be reached directly by email: lauren@procurePartnerships.co.uk or phone: 0739 947 5944
Lauren Oxland, the dedicated Key Account Manager for the West at Procure Partnerships Framework, brings seven years of industry expertise to her pivotal role. Lauren’s primary responsibility is to provide unwavering support to Public Sector framework users, facilitating the seamless appointment of main contractors and consultants for capital projects and ensuring smooth project lifecycle management.
