SS15 60 - Inward Investment In Kent

The Kent and Medway Growth Strategy places a strong emphasis on the importance of attracting inward investment, and for locally based agencies to work closely with government agencies to bring new investment into the area. In the Kent and Medway Growth Strategy we said that we would increase our promotion of Kent and Medway as a UK inward investment gateway, with a commitment required from Government and UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) to match local support for inward investment where it is focused around sectors in which Kent and Medway have particular strengths. Kent County Council is seeking a supplier that can be the inward investment agency for Kent and Medway. The successful supplier must have an excellent understanding of the key issues companies face when looking to relocate, an understanding of the industrial and commercial property market appropriate to the subject matter of the Contract, how to identify and develop leads, how to support companies during the relocation process, and how to support relocated companies following relocation. The successful supplier should have a strong track record of delivering similar services. The successful supplier will be expected to deliver, alongside Kent County Council and Medway Council, specific outcomes that contribute to economic development in Kent and Medway, and will work closely with stakeholders in the county and internationally, including UKTI. Prospective bidders are required to specify how they will perform this role, and to show a proven track record in such delivery. The successful supplier will develop innovative and creative solutions to secure inward investment in Kent and Medway. The key features of the service are set out below: Securing external investment into Kent and Medway that creates new jobs; Promoting Kent and Medway to overseas markets; Maintaining close contact with investing businesses through an aftercare programme. Prospective bidders are required to specify how they will deliver these. The successful supplier will also demonstrate how it will deliver and contribute to the following economic outcomes for Kent and Medway: More investment opportunities from overseas markets; Increased supply chain benefits for local businesses; More inward investment in Kent and Medway; Raised profile as a destination for inward and foreign direct investment.