MSTAR4
Framework Description
MSTAR4 (Managed Services for Temporary Agency Resources, reference 653F_23) is an ESPO framework for managing temporary agency workers in the public sector. It runs from 11 April 2023 to 10 April 2027 with no extension. Five lots cover neutral and master vendor models, vendor management systems, talent pool technology and statement of works project delivery. As a Public Contracts Regulations 2015 framework, its supplier list is fixed until it ends.
Context & Use Case
Councils, schools and other public bodies use MSTAR4 to manage temporary staffing through one managed service, rather than many agencies. A neutral vendor manages a supply chain of agencies, while a master vendor supplies most workers itself. Technology lots support buyers running their own systems or talent pools, and statement of works covers outcome-based projects.
Scope of Services
Lot 1a: Neutral Vendor Lot 1b: Master Vendor Lot 2: Vendor Management System Lot 3: Talent Pool Technology Lot 4: Statement of Works (Project Delivery)
Lots
Lot 1a Neutral (‘Neutral Vendor’); Lot 1b Master (‘Master Vendor’); Lot 2 Vendor Management System; Lot 3 Talent Pool Technology; Lot 4 Statement of Works (Project Delivery)
Who Can Apply
Suits managed service providers, recruitment agencies, vendor management system providers and talent pool technology firms. Applications for this framework are closed and it ends on 10 April 2027 with no extension, so providers not appointed should prepare for ESPO's replacement.
Buyer Benefits
Buyers can control agency spend, improve compliance and gain data on temporary staffing through one managed service. Choice of neutral or master vendor lets them match the model to their market. Buyers value cost savings, worker compliance checks and management information.
Next Steps
Read the MSTAR4 653F_23 page on ESPO's website. With MSTAR4 ending on 10 April 2027, watch ESPO and Find a Tender for its replacement. Prepare evidence of managed service savings, worker compliance, supply chain management, technology and management information from public sector contracts.
How Athena Can Help
MSTAR4 is near its end, so Athena would help you prepare for its replacement. Our replacement framework planning plans your bid, chooses lots and builds a timetable around ESPO's dates. When the tender opens, managed service bid writing builds win themes on savings, compliance and technology, models your score against rival providers and writes your response. Our rate modelling support helps model margins and rates that win, and supports the bid/no-bid decision on each lot.
