Arness L. Harris

Arness L. Harris serves as a key procurement professional within the JMD-Procurement Services Staff, supporting the Department of Justice’s mission to modernize federal justice operations through strategic acquisitions of technical and administrative services. Responsible for managing complex contract actions under FAR guidelines, Harris specializes in securing IT modernization solutions, legal support infrastructure, and mission-critical administrative services that enhance the agency’s digital capabilities and operational resilience. Their procurement portfolio centers on professional services contracts requiring high levels of technical compliance, cybersecurity alignment, and secure communications integration, ensuring that DOJ’s evolving needs are met through agile, compliant contracting practices. Harris cultivates relationships with a diverse range of vendors, including IT service providers, facilities management firms, and specialized information logistics contractors. While no single contractor dominates the award landscape, the procurement pattern reflects a balanced engagement with both large-capacity service integrators and nimble small businesses capable of delivering tailored solutions. Working relationships are characterized by a focus on performance-based outcomes, clear statement of work development, and rigorous compliance with federal acquisition standards, ensuring accountability and mission alignment across all contract lifecycles. A strong preference for open competition is evident, with 80% of acquisitions conducted without set-asides, reflecting a commitment to broad market access and value-driven sourcing. However, Harris consistently reserves 20% of opportunities for Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5, demonstrating a deliberate and structured approach to fostering small business participation without compromising mission requirements. This balance supports equitable access while maintaining procurement efficiency and competitive rigor. The primary NAICS focus areas—541519 (Other Computer Related Services) and 541513 (Computer Facilities Management Services)—reveal deep expertise in IT modernization, cloud-enabled infrastructure, and managed technical services. An additional 20% of activity under 424920 reflects procurement of specialized legal and administrative publications and documentation systems. Harris’s domain knowledge spans secure data management, digital record systems, and integrated facilities support critical to federal justice administration.