Enabling Sustainable Delivery
This leading data centre provider needed to scale its data centre delivery programme quickly to meet global demand but had limited internal procurement capacity. RLB was brought in to rapidly build a fit-for-purpose supply chain and procurement function from the ground up.
We mobilised experienced teams to create procurement frameworks, templates and processes. Working closely with the client’s legal counsel, we continue to shape tailored purchase agreements that streamline operations and improve commercial terms.
Our client is committed to being a world leader in sustainable digital infrastructure. To support this, our sustainability experts are advising on policy for purchase agreements – a process that has led to the creation of its global ESG contracting standard. We’ve developed clear procurement policies, advised on internal resource planning and helped set delivery partner expectations.
By benchmarking leading industry standards, we’ve built a practical three-year road map to guide the client towards its ESG goals, starting with immediate actions. The result is a procurement framework that embeds ESG principles across every stage of the data centre development life cycle.
At a glance
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ClientConfidential
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ServicesSupply Chain and Procurement Management
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sectorData Centres
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LocationUK and Worldwide
Establishing scalable, resilient operations
As our partnership grows, the client has asked us to lead its European data centre project, including the full end-to-end process for Owner-Furnished Contractor-Installed (OFCI) equipment procurement. We’re providing strategic oversight across procurement activities, supporting master purchase agreements, contract negotiations and risk management for its site in UK.
Operating as a trusted partner, we continue to support on both global and project-specific work. This includes helping prequalify and onboard suppliers in Europe, South America and Asia through a centralised procurement function. We’re also leading functional teams to align suppliers with the client’s environment, health and safety (EHS) and cybersecurity policies, strengthening resilience across the supply chain.
Creating long-term commercial value
We’re using our supplier relationships to accelerate delivery of long lead items, some originally expected to take up to 36 months. By engaging early and buying directly, our specialists are helping the client cut months from delivery schedules and reduce costs by 10-20% compared to sourcing through general contractors.
By the end of our current engagement, we’ll have managed over £500 million in OFCI procurement. So far, the work has delivered significant cost savings and aligned procurement practices with the client’s
Delivering strategies that work in practice
Before our involvement, the client had no dedicated procurement function. We’ve since embedded specialist capability and continue to support its teams in making informed, strategic decisions.
Our approach combines strategy and delivery – we don’t just develop procurement strategies, we implement them. Every recommendation is grounded in real-world experience from delivering complex, high-value procurement programmes.
Building a trusted partnership
Our client continues to rely on us to lead delivery of some of its most critical projects. We’ve helped keep programmes on time and within budget and provided strategic input throughout.
We’re also helping shape its broader vision for sustainability, security and trust – values that reflect how we work. Trust is central to every project we lead at RLB. This alignment continues to make us a natural partner as they look to the future.
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