Decision
Analysis
outcome: The Chief Executive has decided to award the contract to Knowles Fleet.
summary: The decision at stake is the awarding of a contract for an Electric Vehicle Salary Sacrifice scheme to Knowles Fleet via ESPO Framework.
topline: The Chief Executive has decided to award the Electric Vehicle Salary Sacrifice scheme contract to Knowles Fleet via ESPO Framework.
reason_contentious: This issue may be contentious as it involves selecting a provider for a scheme that will impact SDC staff, with potential financial implications and differences in service offerings.
affected_stakeholders: ["SDC staff", "Knowles Fleet", "ESPO Framework"]
contentiousness_score: 6
political_party_relevance: There are no mentions or implications of political parties or political influence on the decision.
URL: https://democracy.stratford.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=4033
Decision Maker: Chief Executive (Head of Paid Service)
Outcome: Recommendations Approved
Is Key Decision?: No
Is Callable In?: No
Purpose:
Content: Contract for Electric Vehicle Salary sacrifice scheme to be awarded to Knowles Fleet via ESPO Framework. There is no cost to SDC of providing the scheme other than administration time. The employee meets all other costs. Knowles provide a strong scheme offering for SDC staff in particular, Knowles were able to provide the following over and above the second provider: · Knowles fee is incorporated within salary sacrifice amount, the other provider had a fixed management fee which was significantly higher; · Knowles pricing is based on guaranteed lowest price search of 17 suppliers, NHS Fleet pricing based upon framework pricing, Knowles pricing increases accessibility for SDC staff; · Knowles scheme deals with additional fees such as parking/damages directly with the employee, NHS Fleet would invoice SDC after 2 months of no response form employee, proceeding with Knowles is lower risk of SDC being liable for additional fees an employee may gain over their contract; and · Scheme includes a 10-day cooling off period and ability to add in lifetime protection cover. Decision By Chief Executive to award to Knowles as supported by Staff Strategy Steering Group.
Date of Decision: July 22, 2025