I am pleased to share an update on the strategic deliverable that is reviewing the current Purchasing policy and procedures at BCIT. This deliverable correlates with the BCIT Indigenous, Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Access, Sustainability, and Student Wellbeing (IDEAS) framework. It also connects to our vision, values, and the transformation of our processes to ensure efficiency, financial accountability, and sustainable growth.
Our review has considered how to appropriately integrate the four pillars of environmental stewardship, social responsibility, Indigenous reconciliation, and ethical compliance within current Purchasing policy and protocols.
To date, the team has reviewed current best-practice at several post-secondary institutions, including Red River College Polytechnic, who have made advancements with Indigenous procurement. We worked with a PhD candidate related to their thesis on sustainable procurement practices. We also created a new Supplier Code of Conduct and reviewed various related procedures. In addition, we engaged Reeve Consulting who has direct experience in sustainable procurement policy for public sector clients across Canada. We’ve also collaborated with BC Net through the sector-wide Sustainable Procurement Committee.
Within BCIT, we have met with representatives from Respect, Diversity, and Inclusion (RDI) Office, Academic, Sustainability, and Indigenous Initiatives and Partnerships. With their input, we completed a draft policy that will now go through the Policy Review Committee and then a 30-day community review. This is expected to be completed by May 2026.
Next steps include the implementation of a Sustainable Procurement Action Plan. This will identify high impact procurement opportunities (HIPO list) and define what specific steps will be actioned in the short and medium term. This will provide visibility and ongoing review related to the policy changes.
We encourage employees interested in discussing this initiative further to reach out to Procurement.
Training sessions related purchasing and contract procedures are also available on an ongoing basis with details shared via the BCIT Intranet.
Thank you,
Vince Laxton
Director, Corporate Services
Commitment: Foster vibrant and inclusive communities
Initiatives:
- Educational Innovation and Real-World Learning
- Relevant Education and Sustainable Practices
- Campus Development and Accessibility
- Educational and Curriculum Development
Deliverable: Review and integrate social, environmental, and indigenous considerations with procurement policies and procedures in collaboration with external partners.