Summary

Deecon delivered targeted commercial management support to UK Power Networks’ Capital Programme and Procurement function, driving cost control, process optimisation, and robust contract management across multiple live projects.

The Requirement

UK Power Networks engaged Deecon to provide commercial expertise within the Capital Programme and Procurement teams for the London and Southern regions. Deecon’s remit included undertaking Quantity Surveyor roles, managing costs on live projects, identifying key areas of overspend, and recommending opportunities for automation. Deecon were also tasked with supporting contract management and audit activities to ensure commercial assurance and governance.

The Solution

Deecon embedded experienced commercial professionals within UKPN’s project teams, collaborating closely with Project Managers, Quantity Surveyors, Planners and Customers. Key activities included:

Cost Control: Managed the Early Warning and Compensation Event process, ensuring all events were substantiated and processed in line with contract requirements. Developed a cost control tool to present all items in a clear, consistent format, facilitating effective stakeholder discussions.
Cost Reporting: Produced dashboards and presentations to communicate project commercial status to senior stakeholders and support gate approvals. Ensured timely certification of all Applications for Payment and identified disallowable costs where appropriate.
Audit and Reconciliation: Conducted detailed audits and cost reconciliations, including thorough analysis of Labour and Plant & Equipment costs over a 12-month period, cross-checking against Applications for Payment.
Collaboration: Worked alongside UKPN teams to deliver commercial management support across 6 capital programme projects, focusing on process optimisation and cost management.

The Results

Facilitated governance for increased funding across 6 projects
Completed a full audit on Labour and Plant
Certified payments for all projects during the engagement
Delivered actionable insights that enabled UKPN to realise cost savings and improve commercial processes