Published date: 7 September 2024

Closed opportunity - This means that the contract is currently closed. The buying department may be considering suppliers that have already applied, or no suitable offers were made.


Closing: 4 November 2024, 5pm

Contract summary

Industry

  • Auditing services - 79212000

Location of contract

DA100BU

Value of contract

£30,000

Procurement reference

Cygnus090924

Published date

7 September 2024

Closing date

4 November 2024

Closing time

5pm

Contract start date

1 January 2025

Contract end date

1 January 2030

Contract type

Service contract

Procedure type

Competitive quotation (below threshold)

The buyer selects a group of potential suppliers to invite to tender.

This procedure can be used for procurements below the relevant contract value threshold.

Contract is suitable for SMEs?

Yes

Contract is suitable for VCSEs?

No


Description

Opportunity Notice: External Auditor for Cygnus Academies Trust

Cygnus Academies Trust is seeking professional auditing firms to submit proposals for providing annual external audit services in line with the requirements outlined in the Academies Financial Handbook. This is a procurement opportunity open to experienced auditors with a strong track record of working with educational institutions, specifically multi-academy trusts.

The selected firm will be responsible for conducting an independent and thorough audit of Cygnus Academies Trust's financial statements for the upcoming financial year. This will include compliance checks, ensuring that all financial activities are in accordance with legal and regulatory requirements, and delivering comprehensive reports to our Trust Board and the Education and Skills Funding Agency (ESFA). In addition to the annual audit, the appointed auditor may be required to offer ongoing financial advice throughout the year, helping the Trust maintain robust financial management practices.

Scope of Services:
- Conduct an external audit of the Trust's annual financial statements in line with the Academies Financial Handbook.
- Ensure compliance with all regulatory and legal requirements related to the financial management of multi-academy trusts.
- Provide detailed audit reports and recommendations for improvements.
- Offer financial advisory services on an as-needed basis throughout the year.
- Attend Trust Board meetings, if required, to present findings and provide clarity on audit outcomes.

Application Process:
To apply for this opportunity, interested firms must submit a detailed proposal outlining their services and associated costs. Proposals should include:
- A brief company overview, highlighting relevant experience working with educational institutions or similar entities.
- A breakdown of services offered in relation to the annual external audit.
- Proposed costing for both the annual audit and any subsequent advisory services provided throughout the year.
- A summary of your approach to maintaining compliance with the Academies Financial Handbook.
- Details of your firm's professional qualifications, accreditations, and references from previous similar engagements.

Proposals should be submitted via email to Danielle Lewis-Egonu at danielle.lewis-egonu@cygnus.org.uk by 4th November 2024.

Cygnus Academies Trust is committed to ensuring a fair and transparent procurement process. We encourage submissions from diverse suppliers. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews, and a final decision will be made based on the overall quality of the proposal, experience, and value for money.

Deadline for Applications: 4th November 2024 17:00
We look forward to receiving your proposal and working together to ensure the financial integrity of Cygnus Academies Trust.

For any queries, please contact the above email address.


About the buyer

Contact name

Danielle Lewis-Egonu

Address

Cygnus Academies Trust
C/O Manor Community Primary School,Keary Road
SWANSCOMBE, Kent
DA100BU
England

Telephone

01322224201

Email

danielle.lewis-egonu@cygnus.org.uk

Website

https://www.cygnus.org.uk/