Karen Payne

Karen Payne serves as a Contract Specialist within the Public Buildings Service’s R4 (AMD) Acquisition Management Division, where she plays a pivotal role in executing complex construction and facilities support acquisitions for federal infrastructure projects. She manages the full lifecycle of procurement actions—from market research and solicitation development to contract award and administration—ensuring compliance with FAR regulations and alignment with GSA’s mission to deliver secure, efficient, and sustainable federal facilities. Her portfolio primarily encompasses design-build, renovation, and maintenance contracts for courthouses, office complexes, and mission-critical infrastructure, requiring deep technical understanding of construction standards and facility lifecycle management. Karen maintains a consistent working relationship with MCKENZIE CONSTRUCTION & SITE DEVELOPMENT LLC, a trusted prime contractor specializing in site development and construction services for federal clients. Her procurement approach emphasizes collaboration with experienced, locally rooted vendors capable of delivering high-quality, compliant construction and support solutions. She fosters long-term vendor partnerships grounded in performance accountability and regulatory adherence, often engaging contractors through competitive negotiated procedures and integrated project delivery models. Karen demonstrates a strong commitment to socioeconomic contracting, with over two-thirds of her awards structured as small business set-asides, including equal portions allocated to 8(a) competed and total small business set-asides under FAR 19.5, alongside service-disabled veteran-owned small business (SDVOSB) set-asides. Her pattern reflects a deliberate strategy to expand opportunities for disadvantaged and veteran-owned firms, aligning with federal goals for equitable economic participation in public works. Her primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 561210 (Facilities Support Services), encompassing custodial, maintenance, and operational support for federal buildings. She also regularly procures specialized building components under NAICS 337215 and related wholesale distribution services, demonstrating technical expertise in facility systems integration and supply chain logistics for mission-critical infrastructure.