The University of Sussex has announced Interserve, a leading support services and construction company, as its preferred bidder for facilities management services.

This follows the detailed procurement process that began in May 2012. The new partner will take up full operational responsibility on campus from 1 January 2014.

The University aims to bring about a significant improvement in services, create a single coherent contract in place of the current mix of in-house and external contracts; and bring in a high-quality, experienced partner to deliver best practice systems, processes and technology as the University grows.

Services delivered will include cleaning, grounds maintenance, buildings management, portering, mailroom and postal services, security, car parking, waste management, health and safety support, estates project management and energy efficiency.

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The agreement will see the University and Interserve working together to improve services and bring about additional investment and benefits such as:

• Much improved helpdesk support to provide 24/7 access to all facilities management services

• Improved processes, systems and training for staff to clear and explicit national standards.

• Better, consistent and improved use of technology

• Investment to improve energy efficiency and carbon management to help meet our carbon management targets.

• Investment to improve and enhance University estate

• Part-time employment opportunities for Sussex students on campus and specific new graduate-level entry opportunities for Sussex graduates;

• Up to six undergraduate placements each year, with bursaries for good performing students entering their final year and a place on a Graduate Scheme, subject to degree grades.

• Three new apprenticeships every year of the contract, giving young people in the local area employment opportunities and giving the University a sustainable and highly skilled workforce for the future;

• Commitment to good use of local businesses

John Duffy, University of Sussex Registrar and Secretary, said: "We are looking to a long-term development with Interserve, which will ensure that we are making best use of new technology, best-in-class systems and standards. The extensive dialogue process has meant that Interserve understands the University’s needs and our values. I know they will help us to retain and enhance our unique Sussex campus ethos."

(CD/MH)