National Contract Management Association Launches New Initiative to Enhance Acquisition Efficiency

NCMA's New Initiative for Acquisition Efficiency

The National Contract Management Association (NCMA) has made a significant stride in the realm of federal contracting by unveiling its Acquisition Efficiency Working Group. Announced on May 1, 2025, this initiative is designed to deliver practical and data-driven recommendations that support ongoing acquisition reform efforts throughout government agencies. This strategic group aims to streamline regulations, empower the workforce, and enhance agility focused on tangible outcomes.

The Working Group is chaired by Wes Bennett, an NCMA Board Member and the Vice President of Contracts at Booz Allen Hamilton. His dual experience in government contracting and the intricacies of federal processes provides a unique lens through which the group will approach potential reforms. Guided by Mr. Bennett's leadership, the group's activities will emphasize mission-driven results and foster collaboration across sectors, seeking innovative solutions to pressing challenges in acquisition.

Joining Bennett in this endeavor is Soraya Correa, who holds the position of President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Industries for the Blind. Correa's wealth of expertise in federal contracting and program management positions her as a valuable asset to the Working Group. Known for her pioneering initiatives, she will work closely with Bennett to navigate the complexities of acquisition management and bring transformative changes to the table.

This new Working Group aligns seamlessly with NCMA's broader mission to prepare the acquisition community for a paradigm shift. At the center of this mission is the Contract Management Standard® (CMS™)—a globally recognized benchmark adopted by practitioners across various sectors. The anticipated global version of this standard is set for completion in June 2025, further underpinning the commitment to excellence in contract management.

In addition to setting standards, NCMA is actively developing training strategies aimed at instilling a cultural transformation within the acquisition workforce. This effort is designed to enhance the efficiency of cross-functional practices. NCMA's certificate programs and educational initiatives are increasingly popular, providing essential learning opportunities for professionals throughout the acquisition lifecycle. Through workshops and collaborative initiatives, NCMA encourages shared learning experiences, helping to dismantle silos that often hinder progress.

Groundbreaking events such as NCMA Nexus (https://nexus.ncmahq.org/) significantly contribute to this mission by gathering diverse perspectives to tackle common challenges and discover new strategies for success. These gatherings become a melting pot for innovation as participants explore modern approaches to federal acquisition.

Kraig Conrad, the CEO of NCMA, reflected on the initiative's ambitious goals, stating, "The Acquisition Efficiency Working Group builds on work started years ago. We will continue to support acquisition leaders and innovators with research, data, and designated spaces for collaborative workshops to co-create practical, forward-looking solutions."

For those interested in diving deeper into the workings of the Acquisition Efficiency Working Group, more information is available on NCMA's official website at www.ncmahq.org/acquisitionefficiency.

The NCMA is not merely an associational body but a vibrant community comprising over 100,000 contract management professionals worldwide. It is dedicated to ensuring a powerful and recognized presence for the profession while fostering alliances with various acquisition-related communities. Through consistent efforts aimed at supporting practitioners' growth and influence, NCMA provides an open forum for idea exchange, ultimately driving innovation and excellence in contract management.

Conclusion

As the acquisition landscape continues to evolve, initiatives like NCMA's Acquisition Efficiency Working Group are crucial in shaping a future where procurement processes can become more streamlined, effective, and responsive to changing needs. The collaboration between government and industry leaders stands to bolster the DMV of acquisition reform and drive meaningful change in this vital area of public administration.