Contract Negotiation And Procurement For Engineers Training Course

Introduction

In the intricate world of engineering projects, proficient Contract Negotiation and Procurement are indispensable skills for securing optimal terms, managing supplier relationships, and ensuring the timely and cost-effective acquisition of goods and services. This essential training course is meticulously designed to equip engineering professionals, project managers, and procurement specialists with the strategic insights and practical techniques required to navigate complex contractual agreements and secure advantageous deals. Participants will gain a robust understanding of procurement planning, vendor selection, negotiation tactics, contract administration, and risk mitigation, enabling them to drive maximum value and ensure compliance across all project phases. Our comprehensive curriculum emphasizes hands-on application, real-world case studies, and best practices pertinent to the dynamic infrastructure, manufacturing, and energy sectors in Kenya, empowering you to achieve superior commercial outcomes.

This engineering procurement management course is crucial for individuals and organizations in Kenya striving to optimize their supply chains, reduce project costs, and minimize contractual disputes. Mastering vendor negotiation strategies, implementing strategic sourcing for engineers, and understanding contractual risk management are indispensable for navigating challenging market conditions, ensuring quality inputs, and protecting organizational interests. This program offers an unparalleled opportunity to elevate your expertise in commercial management for engineering projects and effective contract administration, positioning your organization as a leader in value-driven procurement and driving sustainable economic growth across East Africa.

Target Audience

• Project Engineers
• Procurement Engineers/Specialists
• Project Managers
• Commercial Managers
• Supply Chain Managers
• Contract Managers
• Technical Leads involved in vendor selection

Course Objectives

• Understand the fundamental principles of procurement and contract management in engineering projects.
• Master the steps of the procurement process from planning to contract closeout.
• Learn various sourcing strategies and vendor selection methodologies.
• Develop effective negotiation tactics and strategies for engineering contracts.
• Understand different contract types and their associated risks and benefits.
• Apply robust techniques for contract administration, monitoring, and compliance.
• Learn to identify, analyze, and mitigate contractual risks.
• Develop proficiency in managing variations, claims, and disputes in contracts.
• Understand legal and ethical considerations in procurement and negotiation.
• Explore strategies for building strong supplier relationships and performance management.
• Leverage digital tools and e-procurement platforms (conceptual) for efficiency.
• Drive cost savings, value creation, and improved project outcomes through strategic procurement.
• Enhance your ability to navigate complex commercial and legal aspects of engineering projects.

DURATION

10 Days

COURSE CONTENT

Module 1: Introduction to Procurement and Contracts in Engineering module

• Defining procurement and its strategic importance in engineering projects
• Overview of the procurement lifecycle
• Key roles and responsibilities in the procurement process
• Types of goods, services, and works procured in engineering projects
• The legal and commercial context of contracts in Kenya

Module 2: Procurement Planning and Sourcing Strategies module

• Developing a comprehensive procurement management plan
• Make-or-buy analysis: insourcing vs. outsourcing decisions
• Strategic sourcing methodologies (e.g., single, multiple, sole sourcing)
• Market research and vendor pre-qualification
• Ethical considerations in procurement planning

Module 3: Tender Process and Bid Evaluation module

• Preparing clear and comprehensive tender documents (RFP, RFQ, ITB)
• Advertising and distributing tender invitations
• Bidder conferences and clarification processes
• Techniques for objective bid evaluation and selection criteria
• Conducting due diligence on potential suppliers

Module 4: Contract Types and Risk Allocation module

• Fixed-Price Contracts (e.g., Lump Sum, Firm Fixed Price)
• Cost-Reimbursable Contracts (e.g., Cost-Plus-Fixed-Fee, Cost-Plus-Incentive-Fee)
• Time and Material (T&M) Contracts
• Understanding risk allocation based on contract type
• Choosing the appropriate contract type for different engineering procurements

Module 5: Principles of Effective Negotiation module

• Understanding negotiation objectives and strategies
• Key stages of the negotiation process
• BATNA (Best Alternative To a Negotiated Agreement) development
• Positional bargaining vs. principled negotiation
• Common negotiation tactics and how to counter them

Module 6: Negotiation Tactics and Techniques for Engineers module

• Preparing for a negotiation (research, planning, opening offer)
• Active listening and effective questioning in negotiations
• Managing concessions and building rapport
• Handling difficult negotiators and resolving stalemates
• Documenting negotiation outcomes

Module 7: Contract Formulation and Drafting Basics module

• Key clauses in an engineering contract (e.g., scope, price, payment terms, schedule, force majeure)
• Importance of clear and unambiguous language
• Incorporating legal and technical specifications
• Understanding warranties, indemnities, and liabilities
• Contract signing and legal review process

Module 8: Contract Administration and Management module

• Monitoring contractor performance and compliance
• Managing variations, change orders, and amendments
• Dispute avoidance and resolution mechanisms (e.g., mediation, arbitration)
• Managing claims (time and cost claims)
• Performance bonds, bank guarantees, and retention funds

Module 9: Supplier Relationship Management & Performance module

• Building long-term, collaborative relationships with key suppliers
• Supplier performance evaluation and feedback mechanisms
• Managing supplier risks and dependencies
• Developing continuous improvement initiatives with suppliers
• Contract closeout procedures and lessons learned

Module 10: Legal, Ethical & Digital Aspects of Procurement module

• Overview of relevant Kenyan procurement laws and regulations
• Anti-corruption measures and ethical conduct in procurement
• Data privacy and cybersecurity in procurement
• Introduction to e-procurement platforms and digital tools
• Case studies and practical scenarios in contract negotiation and procurement

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.