NCMA's Acquisition Efficiency Working Group: A New Era
With the launch of the National Contract Management Association's (NCMA) Acquisition Efficiency Working Group, a significant focus is placed on a mission to transform federal acquisition processes. This dynamic team comprises seasoned professionals who bring a wealth of experience from both the buying and selling sides of federal contracts. The Working Group has been established to align with governmental initiatives aimed at enhancing the acquisition landscape through meaningful reforms.
Chaired by Experienced Leaders
The Working Group is led by Wes Bennett, an NCMA Board Member and Vice President of Contracts at Booz Allen Hamilton. With previous tenures at renowned organizations such as Microsoft and DARPA, Bennett's leadership is instrumental in guiding this initiative. The group features a diverse mix of professionals from various sectors, ensuring a well-rounded approach to federal procurement challenges.
Diverse Expertise
The working group is built on a coalition of experts from diverse backgrounds, including publicly traded firms, private sector companies, and academic institutions. This rich blend of knowledge allows for the address of acquisition issues from multiple perspectives, reinforcing the group's commitment to creating actionable recommendations. Notably, nearly half of the members have experience working with nontraditional companies, enriching the expertise within the group.
Streamlining Acquisition Practices
Bennett expressed the importance of the group's design, stating, "This group was created to mirror the ecosystem we're striving to enhance. By collaborating with experts throughout the acquisition lifecycle, we can effectively mitigate challenges and deliver solutions that optimize acquisition practices. Our aim is to create lasting changes that empower the workforce to operate more efficiently, thereby serving our mission better."
Dynamic Leadership
Working alongside Bennett is Soraya Correa, Vice Chair and President of the National Industries for the Blind. Well-known for her efforts as the Chief Procurement Officer at the Department of Homeland Security, Correa brings a strong vision to the Working Group. Their leadership ensures a continuous drive toward innovative approaches to federal procurement and acquisition practices.
Committed Team of Experts
The Working Group is further strengthened by a robust lineup of dedicated members, including Eric Crusius, Tim Cummins, Megan Dake, and others who have made significant impacts in their respective fields. This group spans various sectors, from technology to strategic growth, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of federal procurement.
Operational Change for Lasting Impact
Correa asserted, "This isn't just a think tank—it's a powerhouse of action! These individuals represent a wide array of acquisition management, helping to address real challenges within the system. They have dismantled barriers and driven transformative initiatives, placing them in a unique position to foster enduring operational change."
Leveraging Research for Practical Solutions
As part of its ongoing commitment, the Acquisition Efficiency Working Group will utilize insights from the Commercial and Contract Management Institute. This collaboration aims to provide actionable recommendations that will streamline regulations, modernize the workforce, and enhance the adoption of NCMA's Contract Management Standard® (CMS™). These strategies aim to engage the broader community and disseminate effective acquisition practices.
Stay Updated on Developments
For those interested in further developments regarding NCMA’s initiatives and the progress of the Working Group, an array of resources will be shared through events, reports, and other forums designed to engage the expanding acquisition community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NCMA Acquisition Efficiency Working Group?
This group aims to transform federal acquisition processes through collaboration and innovative solutions offered by industry experts.
Who leads the Working Group?
The Working Group is chaired by Wes Bennett and vice-chaired by Soraya Correa, bringing substantial experience to the team.
What is the goal of the Working Group?
The primary goal is to streamline acquisition practices and implement lasting changes that improve interactions with the federal acquisition ecosystem.
How does the group ensure diverse perspectives?
The team consists of members from various sectors, including large corporations, small businesses, and academic institutions, which provides a comprehensive view of federal procurement challenges.
How can I learn more about NCMA and its initiatives?
For updates, interested parties are encouraged to visit the NCMA website for information on their programs and events.
