PSD16226 Executive & Senior Manager Search & Selection

NHS Scotland National Procurement has launched a new framework for Executive and Senior Manager Search and Selection, representing a highly competitive opportunity for specialist executive search firms operating in the public sector.

Led by Public Services Delivery Scotland (PSD Scotland), this framework will support a range of NHS Scotland Health Boards in recruiting senior leadership roles, including Chief Executives, Directors and other senior management positions.

This is a strategically significant route to market for executive search providers. Senior appointments within NHS Scotland are subject to high levels of governance, scrutiny and approval, meaning suppliers must demonstrate not only capability but credibility and consistency in delivery.

Why this matters commercially

This framework is designed as a ranked, three-supplier agreement, which significantly increases its commercial value for successful bidders.

With only three suppliers appointed and a structured call-off model favouring the top-ranked provider, this creates a strong position for those awarded, particularly where direct award to the first-ranked supplier is the default route.

It is important to note that the previous two iterations of this framework were awarded to the same three suppliers, indicating strong incumbency. Non-incumbent bidders will need a clearly defined and credible win strategy to compete effectively.

Scope of services

The framework covers end-to-end executive search and selection services, including:

• Recruitment of senior leadership roles across NHS Scotland, including Chief Executive and Director-level positions
• Candidate search, attraction and market engagement
• Campaign management and strategic advisory to hiring stakeholders
• Candidate assessment, longlisting and shortlisting
• Interview support and selection processes
• Offer negotiation and appointment support
• Management information and performance reporting

Suppliers will be expected to operate with a high degree of transparency, demonstrate inclusive recruitment practices, and align with NHS Scotland values throughout the recruitment lifecycle.

Procurement timeline

• ITT issued: 27 April 2026
• Clarification deadline: 18 May 2026
• Tender submission deadline: 27 May 2026 (12:00)
• Award: July 2026
• Framework start date: 20 July 2026

Commercial overview

• Framework term: 2 years
• Extension: 1 x 24 months
• Maximum suppliers: 3 (ranked)
• Call-off model: Ranked direct award, with mini-competition for volume requirements

This structure creates a high-value but highly competitive opportunity, particularly for firms with established NHS or public sector executive search credentials.

Bidder considerations

• IMPORTANT: The previous two iterations of this framework were awarded to the same three suppliers. Non-incumbent bidders should take this into account when making bid/no-bid decisions and defining a clear win strategy.
• Demonstrable executive search capability and a proven track record, particularly with participating Health Boards, will be critical
• Relevant experience placing senior NHS or equivalent leadership roles is expected
• Governance, process and reporting capability must align with the requirements of a high-scrutiny NHS environment
• Clear and evidenced commitment to equality, diversity and fair work principles will be assessed

TLC Bid Works support

We support executive search firms and recruitment providers in preparing competitive bids for high-value, low-supplier public sector frameworks.

Our support includes:

• Bid / No Bid decision support and positioning
• Bid strategy and bid positioning
• Quality response drafting and review
• Commercial and compliance checks
• Final submission assurance

If you are considering a bid for this framework, early preparation and a clearly defined strategy will be critical to success.