The SPA committee plays a central role in guiding the organisation’s work. Bringing together experienced professionals from local authorities, housing associations and other public bodies across Scotland, the committee provides strategic oversight, sector insight and practical feedback.

Alan Russell, a procurement advisor at South Lanarkshire Council, takes on the role of chair having previously served as vice chair and as a member of the committee since 2019. He succeeds Laurie Carberry, who recently stepped down after leading the group for six years.

Catriona Peden, a senior procurement officer with West Lothian Council, steps into the role of vice chair. She has been a member of the committee since 2022.

Uniquely, SPA’s committee structure ensures that its frameworks are directly informed by those working at the heart of the sector. By providing a forum for collaboration, shared learning and open discussion, the committee ensures that SPA frameworks remain relevant, compliant and responsive to the challenges facing organisations delivering construction, refurbishment, maintenance, compliance and consultancy projects.

Alan Russell said: “I’m passionate about the work of the SPA. The committee plays an important role in making sure that the frameworks and services SPA provides are shaped by real experience and reflect what organisations need on the ground and in the future.

“My focus will be on ensuring that the committee continues to be a valuable platform for members to come together, share insight and contribute to the direction of SPA’s work. Strong engagement is essential if we are to continue delivering procurement solutions that genuinely support the sector.

“One of the major challenges facing the sector is the growing skills shortage in procurement. It is becoming increasingly difficult to recruit experienced professionals, particularly when the private sector is very buoyant. That makes it even more important that we work collaboratively through forums like SPA, share expertise and encourage the next generation into the profession so that the sector has the skills and capacity it needs for the future.”

Catriona Peden said: “The committee provides an important link between SPA and its partners, allowing ideas to be tested, gaps to be identified and frameworks to be continually refined to ensure they are delivering real value.

“For many organisations, SPA offers a compliant and efficient route to market, supported by procurement and technical expertise and a network of vetted contractors. The role of the committee is to ensure those solutions continue to meet the needs of the sector and evolve alongside it.

“My focus as Vice Chair is to support that process and to ensure the committee continues to play an active role in shaping solutions that work well for partners across Scotland.”

Catriona added that raising awareness of SPA’s work remains a key priority.

“There are still organisations discovering SPA and the support it offers. The organisation has already delivered significant community benefits, with more than £1 million distributed to projects and initiatives that support communities across Scotland. Ensuring that impact continues and that partners remain engaged will be important over the coming year.”