What is a VISN Procurement Subject Matter Expert(SME) ?...
VISN Procurement Subject Matter Expert(SME) are a hybrid of an AUS, 1101. 1102, 1103, 1106 and several other labor classifications. Most have 10 years are more experience in their respective fields.
VISN Procurement Subject Matter Expert(SME) specializes in sourcing, negotiating, and managing the acquisition of goods, services, or works within an organization or for external clients, particularly in the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
A VISN Procurement SME combines technical, strategic, and interpersonal skills to drive value through efficient and compliant procurement practices, delivering results aligned with organizational needs and regulatory standards.
VISN SME Specialty Areas
- Supplies
- Services
- Construction / AE
- Contract Management
- Prosthetics
- Medical Sharing
- Leasing
- IT Acquisitions
- Program Management
- Project Management
- Cost Estimator
- Project Scheduler
- Procurement Analyst
- Contract Analyst
- VA TIL Specifier Specialist
- VA Construction Package Specialist
- VA IT Acquisition Package Specialist
- VA Construction Package Specialist
- GSA 2 VA Certified Buy Specialist
Here’s what defines a VISN Procurement SME:
1. In-depth Knowledge of Procurement Processes and Policies
- They understand the entire procurement lifecycle, including sourcing, vendor selection, contract negotiation, risk management, compliance, and supplier relationship management.
- They are familiar with specific procurement policies, regulations, and standards, especially if they work in regulated sectors like federal contracting, healthcare, or finance.
2. Mastery of Relevant Laws and Regulations
- VISN SMEs are well-versed in legal requirements such as the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS), VA Acquisition Regulation (VAAR) or other federal, state, or international procurement laws.
- They understand compliance obligations and the regulatory landscape, which helps them manage contracts effectively and avoid legal pitfalls.
3. Negotiation and Contract Management Expertise
- VISN SME are skilled in negotiating favorable terms and managing contracts to ensure value for money and adherence to terms.
- They handle complex negotiations, balancing cost savings, quality, and compliance while building strong supplier relationships.
4. Strategic Sourcing and Supplier Relationship Management
- VISN SMEs can strategically source suppliers to align with organizational goals, ensuring both cost efficiency and quality.
- They actively manage supplier relationships to foster long-term partnerships, mitigate risks, and maintain service levels, quality, and responsiveness.
5. Analytical and Financial Acumen
- VISN SMEs are data-driven, using spend analysis, cost-benefit analysis, and risk assessments to make informed sourcing decisions.
- They understand pricing models, budget impacts, and total cost of ownership (TCO), which helps optimize procurement strategies for cost-effectiveness.
6. Adaptability and Continuous Improvement
- They stay up-to-date with market trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in procurement. They’re familiar with tools like e-procurement systems, ERP, and spend management software.
- VISN SMEs implement process improvements, automation, and innovative procurement strategies to optimize operations and reduce costs.
7. Risk Management Skills
- They identify and mitigate potential risks in the procurement process, such as supply chain disruptions, compliance issues, or vendor-related risks.
- VISN SMEs use risk management frameworks to ensure continuity, compliance, and quality throughout the procurement lifecycle.
8. Effective Communication and Stakeholder Engagement
- VISN SMEs communicate complex procurement needs, terms, and processes to stakeholders, including technical teams, finance departments, legal, and senior leadership.
- They can articulate the value and impact of procurement decisions, ensuring alignment with the organization’s strategic objectives.
9. Recognition and Credibility in the Field
- VISN SMEs in procurement often have certifications like Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO), or others specific to procurement.
- They may be recognized by peers and industry associations for their contributions, publications, or participation in procurement-focused forums and training.
Core Competencies
- Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Compliance
- Contract Negotiation & Administration
- Strategic Sourcing & Procurement
- Risk Assessment & Mitigation
- Cost Analysis & Price Negotiation
- Supplier & Stakeholder Relationship Management
- Acquisition Strategy Development
- Performance Management & Compliance Audits
Professional Experience
- Serve as a lead Contracting Officer and SME for major acquisitions, overseeing the full lifecycle from solicitation to contract closeout.
- Develop and implement acquisition strategies aligned with program objectives and regulatory requirements, resulting in [notable efficiency metrics, cost savings, etc.].
- Facilitate pre- and post-award conferences, ensuring clear communication of contract terms, deliverables, and performance expectations to contractors and stakeholders.
- Conduct risk assessments to identify potential compliance issues, driving proactive measures that reduce contract risk.
- Mentor and train junior contracting staff in regulatory compliance, market research techniques, and best practices in federal contracting.
- Managed a diverse portfolio of contracts, including [e.g., fixed-price, cost-reimbursement, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ)], totaling over [$50 million] in value.
- Conducted in-depth market research to support acquisition planning and vendor selection, leading to increased competition and cost savings.
- Led contract negotiations with suppliers and vendors, achieving favorable terms that met both government objectives and contractor capabilities.
- Provided expert guidance on the FAR and DFARS, resolving complex regulatory issues and ensuring contracts adhered to legal and policy standards.
- Analyzed procurement data to identify trends, improve sourcing strategies, and recommend process improvements, achieving [quantifiable results such as reduced cycle times, cost savings].
- Collaborated with program managers to define procurement needs and develop statements of work (SOWs) and performance work statements (PWS) that accurately captured project scope.
- Conducted compliance audits on active contracts to ensure adherence to contract terms and regulatory guidelines, achieving a successful compliance rate.
Education
- Bachelor's degree at Minimum
Certifications
- AUS Specialty Certification Lev 2-3
- Federal Acquisition Certification in Contracting (FAC-C) Level II or lll (or DAWIA Level ll or III) [Optional]
- FAC-C (Professional) [Optional]
- Certified Federal Contracts Manager (CFCM) – National Contract Management Association (NCMA)[Optional]
- Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM) (optional)
- Project Management Professional (PMP) (optional)
Technical Skills
- Procurement Systems: [e.g., PRISM, SPS/PD2, FPDS, GSA eBuy]
- Data Analysis: [e.g., Microsoft Excel, Tableau]
- Contract Writing Tools: [e.g., PD2, ConWrite]
- Communication: Strong presentation and briefing skills, experienced in MS Office Suite