In order to meet the challenging timetable for the National IT
Programme for the NHS, Richard Granger, Director General of
Information Technology, today announced that he had issued an OJEC
notice to recruit additional expert programme management resources.

The OJEC advert covers the requirements for a core programme office,
including a locum Chief Operating Officer and director level
managers. Other critical requirements are around project planning,
risk analysis and management, cost modelling, contracting and
procurement and implementation management.

The Department of Health will assess respondents against their
verified track record in managing complex programmes in the public
sector. They must clearly demonstrate the ability to work within an
agreed and measured framework and provide a solid range of
experienced personnel to work alongside existing staff across the
programme.

This emphasis on strong programme management is in line with Office
of Government Commerce measures to ensure successful delivery of
major IT projects.

Richard Granger said, "The National IT Programme is on a critical
time path and needs to move swiftly to meet key project milestones.
The pace of the programme is reflected in the procurement process."

"This is a pragmatic approach to establishing the right level of
resources for the National IT Programme."

NOTES TO EDITORS

1. Delivering 21st Century IT for the NHS and Key elements of the
procurement approach for the National IT Programme are available at:
www.doh.gov.uk/ipu/programme/index.htm

2. The OJEC contract notice can be found at:
http://ted.publications.eu.int

3. Media enquiries only to David Ingle, Department of Health Media
Centre, 020 7210 5656


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