How new rules and NEC are helping us to carry on procuring in a crisis

In her first editorial as the new NEC Users' Group chair, Tracy Tulloch addresses how NEC can help us continue to procure in disruptive environments.

Firstly, I would like to extend my gratitude to my predecessor John Welch for his exemplary leadership of the NEC Users’ Group – and for setting high standards that I aspire to uphold. John’s tenure as chair has established a benchmark that we all recognise and appreciate.

For my initial editorial as the new NEC Users’ Group chair, I aim to build upon John’s reflections from his final editorial (Issue 136) by addressing a topic that is impacting many of us—procuring in a world which seems to be in constant crisis.

Specifically, I will focus on synergies between the NEC suite of contracts and the UK’s new procurement legislation when navigating contracting uncertainties in an environment of global crises and disruptive events.

Procurement Act 2023

Construction procurement has traditionally encountered challenges such as supply chain disruptions, price volatility and logistical difficulties. The Procurement Act 2023, coupled with advances in artificial intelligence (AI), is anticipated to enhance UK procurement significantly.

Implemented in February 2025, the new legislation introduces flexibility and foresight through the competitive flexible procedure, granting contracting authorities increased freedom to design procurement processes, and through the introduction of notices to the market to ensure greater transparency.

AI technologies are also helping to improve procurement processes by enhancing efficiency, accuracy and predictive capabilities, thus enabling better anticipation and mitigation of risks. These innovations collectively provide a comprehensive framework that addresses traditional procurement issues and prepares the industry for continuous change and uncertainty.

NEC suite of contracts

The NEC suite of contracts embeds the same principles as the Procurement Act, being designed to support procurement in an agile and complex global environment. They foster collaboration, transparency and flexible mechanisms that allow for adjustments to be made in response to changing circumstances, such as price fluctuations, supply chain disruptions and other unforeseen events.

By promoting a proactive approach to risk management and encouraging early warning systems, NEC contracts enable us all to address and mitigate issues promptly. This adaptability is crucial in navigating the complexities of the modern procurement landscape, ensuring that projects remain on track and within budget despite external challenges.

Furthermore, the emphasis on clear communication and mutual trust within the NEC suite enhances the capacity for organisations to work together effectively, ultimately driving efficiency and successful outcomes in a turbulent global market.

Conclusion

The new Procurement Act and the NEC suite of contracts both offer complementary frameworks and tools that empower us as procurement professionals to manage adeptly the challenges posed by a world in constant crisis.

By embracing flexibility, collaboration and proactive planning, we can navigate uncertainties and ensure successful project outcomes even in the most disruptive environments.