Eric Mead

Eric Mead serves as the primary contracting lead for the It Contracting Division - PL83 within the Defense Information Systems Agency, where he oversees the acquisition of mission-critical IT services and software solutions that sustain and modernize DoD-wide communication and computing infrastructures. His responsibilities include managing the full lifecycle of procurements for secure, interoperable systems, with a focus on cybersecurity resilience, legacy system modernization, and scalable software platforms essential to defense operations. He routinely handles complex, high-stakes acquisitions under FAR and DFARS guidelines, ensuring compliance with DoD standards for information assurance and network interoperability. Mead cultivates strategic relationships with a broad base of IT service providers, including prime contractors specializing in defense-grade network infrastructure, cloud enablement, and mission-critical software development. While no single contractor dominates his portfolio, he consistently engages vendors with proven expertise in secure systems integration, zero-trust architecture, and defense communications platforms. His contracting approach emphasizes performance-based outcomes, rigorous technical evaluation, and long-term sustainment capabilities, fostering partnerships with firms capable of delivering end-to-end solutions across classified and unclassified environments. His procurement patterns reflect a strong preference for open competition, with 87.8% of acquisitions conducted without set-asides. However, he actively supports small business participation, with approximately 8.5% of awards designated for Total Small Business Set-Asides and 2.4% reserved for Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses. He maintains a measured but intentional commitment to socioeconomic programs, including occasional 8(a) competed awards, ensuring broad vendor access while prioritizing mission readiness. Mead’s primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 517111 (Wired Telecommunications Carriers), reflecting deep expertise in secure voice, data, and video transport systems. He also procures security systems services, facilities support, and specialized IT infrastructure, demonstrating a technical domain mastery in defense communications, network operations, and enterprise IT sustainment. His work ensures the continuity and evolution of the DoD’s global information architecture.