[zz from 寒潭]KPMG scoops prize at 2008 Institute for Business Consulting Awards

KPMG scooped the award for "Most Outstanding Practice in Generating Increased Client Revenue" at this year’s Institute for Business Consulting Awards. The team from KPMG’s Infrastructure and Government practice won the award for their work with the London Borough of Hounslow where a dramatic cost improvement programme has released over £50 million to hold tax at 2006 levels and to make new investments whilst protecting services. Winners were announced in seven categories. The judges were made up of a high profile panel from the public and private sector. Jonathan Guppy, Partner at KPMG’s public sector practice comments: "Hounslow is a model for how a public sector organisation can set a bold and compelling ambition and then deliver at speed. Hounslow has squared the circle; reducing tax in real terms; spending less on managing itself and more on delivering to its residents." The programme was delivered over 15 months by Hounslow officers, elected councillors and KPMG advisors working as a single team. It was delivered on time and on budget. The entire council management structure was simplified, shared services for finance, human resources and administration were established and new service contracts awarded. A voluntary severance programme allowed staff savings to be made quickly and real cash to be made available for services. The council is now well-equipped to sustain and build on these gains, utilising the added skills acquired through working with KPMG in pushing for continuous improvements. After years of trimming services, Hounslow is now generating a cash surplus that will be invested in roads, new leisure facilities and essential school buildings.