A buyer has been working with their business managers on a tender.

Yes, the procurement buyer should assess and take all decisions to award the tender independently of the business managers to avoid conflict of interest

No, it is a lengthy, costly, and unnecessary step for the procurement buyer to engage business managers

No, the buyer's recommendations are not relevant to the final sourcing decision, which must be taken by the business managers

Yes, the procurement buyer can advise on the competitive proposal but should engage with the business managers about the decision to award the tender