Overview of the challenge
Successful long-term business relationships do not happen by chance. They require trust, transparency and a shared commitment to delivering value.
Having worked together since 2019, the LPSO and Mitie had already established a strong and collaborative relationship, supported by the Cabinet Office Strategic Supplier Relationship Management (SSRM) framework. Following a successful contract renewal, both organisations wanted to build on this foundation by aligning the existing framework with ISO 44001, the international standard for collaborative business relationships.
The challenge was to strengthen existing ways of working without creating unnecessary complexity or disrupting day-to-day operations. Both organisations wanted to demonstrate how SSRM and ISO 44001 could work together to support clearer communication, stronger governance, continuous improvement and long-term value.
Our approach
Mitie and the LPSO reviewed the existing Strategic Supplier Relationship Management framework against the requirements of ISO 44001. A gap analysis identified where existing SSRM practices already met the standard and where targeted enhancements were required.
The team strengthened governance and communication, introduced clearer knowledge-sharing processes and developed a joint relationship charter to align both organisations around shared goals, behaviours and long-term priorities. Leadership responsibilities were formalised, including induction for the Senior Executive Responsible, while the new requirements were integrated into existing SSRM arrangements to minimise additional complexity.
Mitie then carried out an internal readiness assessment before the relationship was independently audited by the British Standards Institution. The result was an enhanced collaborative model that built on established SSRM strengths while providing a clear platform for continual improvement.
The results
The LPSO and Mitie successfully achieved ISO 44001 certification, becoming the first UK Government contract to be recognised against the standard. This provided independent validation of the strength of the relationship and demonstrated how an established Strategic Supplier Relationship Management framework can be enhanced through alignment with international best practice.
The process delivered clearer communication, stronger alignment around shared objectives and a more structured approach to knowledge sharing, governance and risk management. It reinforced the trust, transparency and continual improvement central to the partnership, helping both organisations work together more effectively and create long-term value.