Management Consultancy Framework
The Management Consultancy Framework Four (MCF4) let under Public Contracts Regulations 2015, provides UK public sector organisations with access to cost-effective management consultancy from a range
of suppliers
Buyers can access advice for a range of specialisms including business, strategy, policy, infrastructure, procurement and health and social care.
Management consultancy plays a crucial role in helping public sector organisations navigate complex challenges, deliver better services and achieve strategic goals with limited resources. In an era of rapid change, driven by technological innovation, shifting policy landscapes, economic pressures and more, public bodies must adapt quickly while maintaining accountability and transparency. Management consultancy can bring value in this area.
By offering specialised expertise across areas such as strategy, procurement, infrastructure, health and social care, consultants can help public sector teams make informed decisions, streamline operations and implement reforms effectively.
Consultants can also provide an external perspective, challenging assumptions and bringing in best practices from across other industries. Their ability to scale up support for short-term projects or long-term transformation programmes makes them an excellent resource for departments. Ultimately, management consultancy empowers the public sector to innovate, improve outcomes for citizens and deliver value for money.
Lots
The framework agreement will run for 2 years, with no option to extend. There are 219 suppliers across 10 lots.
The Management Consultancy Framework Four (MCF4) is structured into ten distinct lots, each addressing a specific area of public sector consultancy. Lot 1 covers Business and includes 71 suppliers, while Lot 2 focuses on Strategy and Policy with 56 suppliers. Lot 3 is dedicated to Complex and Transformation projects, supported by 36 suppliers. Lot 4 centres on Finance, also featuring 36 suppliers. Lot 5 encompasses HR services with 32 suppliers, and Lot 6 deals with Procurement and Supply Chain, drawing on 37 suppliers. Lot 7 relates to Health, Social Care and Community, backed by 46 suppliers. Lot 8 targets Infrastructure, involving 45 suppliers. Lot 9 concentrates on Environment and Sustainability, with 43 suppliers contributing expertise. Finally, Lot 10 addresses Restructuring and Insolvency, comprising 15 suppliers.
Benefits
The framework offers a range of benefits designed to support public sector organisations in accessing high-quality consultancy services.
The agreement includes a diverse range of suppliers, from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to large multinationals, ensuring flexibility and choice. All suppliers are Cyber Essentials accredited, providing assurance around data security and digital resilience. The framework operates under standardised terms and conditions and is supported by comprehensive customer guidance and templates to streamline procurement.
Users can select from various pricing models, including time and materials (T&M), fixed price, or risk and reward, allowing for tailored commercial arrangements. Additionally, a dedicated and knowledgeable contract management team is available to provide ongoing support throughout the procurement process. In line with sustainability commitments, all suppliers have agreed to comply with Procurement Policy Note 006, which requires consideration of carbon reduction plans in major government contracts. Where applicable, individual supplier carbon reduction plans are publicly accessible via their profile pages.
Buying
Before using the framework, buyers should read the buyer guide to understand the agreement’s structure and procedures. Further competition is the standard route to market under this framework, although direct award may be used in specific circumstances. Legal advice should be sought to confirm whether direct award is appropriate, and it is the buyer’s responsibility to justify this approach. For detailed guidance on the process, refer to Framework Schedule 7 – Call-Off Award Procedure. Buyers can run further competition using their own eSourcing system or the Crown Commercial Service (CCS) eSourcing portal. If using the CCS portal for the first time, registration is required.
In summary, the Management Consultancy Framework Four (MCF4) provides a robust, compliant, and flexible route for UK public sector organisations to access high-quality consultancy services across a wide range of specialisms. With a diverse supplier base, clear procurement guidance, and built-in support mechanisms, the framework is designed to help buyers navigate complex challenges and deliver meaningful outcomes. Whether addressing strategic transformation, operational efficiency, or sector-specific reforms, MCF4 enables public bodies to engage expert support efficiently and responsibly. Its structure, benefits, and buying options make it a valuable tool for driving innovation, improving public services, and achieving value for money across government and community initiatives.
