Pension services

Tender description

This procurement is to let three independent contracts by ‘the Authorities’: • Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Authority (DFRA), • Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Combined Fire Authority (LFRA), and • Nottinghamshire and City of Nottingham Fire and Rescue Authority (NFRA). For the provision of firefighters’ pension scheme administration and, for LFRA only, pensioner payroll services. The proposed contract will be for five (5) years with an options to extend for a five (5) years. The procurement exercise will be led by Leicester City Council. We anticipate awarding to a single supplier although it is intended that each Authority will enter into its own independent contract with the supplier resulting in three separate contracts. To provide a comprehensive pensions service consisting of: PART A — Pension administration services in relation to the firefighters’ pension schemes. PART B (LFRA only) — firefighters’ pensioner payroll, including the facility to make immediate payments. The provision and hosting of IT software is required for both parts. The requirement includes making best use of systems including workflow, document imaging functionality, a dedicated website, monthly data collection, employer online services and 24/7 customer self-service access. The supplier must meet the challenge of change, particularly with regards to remedies arising from current and future legal cases. The Authorities expect the supplier to provide professional services in a robust and timely manner in line with industry best practice standards. A high level of communication will be required between parties throughout the contract including regular review meetings. The supplier must ensure that the system is fully auditable and the Authorities and their auditors, will have the right to examine all files held that relate to the contract. The supplier shall provide all reasonable assistance and cooperation to the Authorities and their auditors when required.