Richard D. Behnke

Richard D. Behnke serves as a Contracting Officer responsible for managing federal acquisitions across a diverse range of commercial services and wholesale distribution sectors. In this role, he executes full lifecycle contracting processes—from market research and solicitation development to award and contract administration—ensuring compliance with federal procurement regulations and agency mission objectives. His portfolio primarily supports operational needs through non-defense commercial procurement, with a focus on ensuring timely delivery of essential goods and services through competitive and transparent processes. Behnke engages with a broad spectrum of vendors, including merchant wholesalers, insurance intermediaries, and specialized repair and maintenance providers. While no single contractor dominates his award history, his contracting patterns reflect a preference for open competition among established commercial firms, with consistent engagement with small businesses certified under the 8(a) program. His approach emphasizes fair and open competition while maintaining rigorous oversight of contractor performance and compliance. His socioeconomic contracting strategy demonstrates a strong commitment to small business participation, with approximately one-third of his awards designated for 8(a) competed set-asides. This reflects a deliberate effort to foster economic opportunity for disadvantaged businesses while maintaining high standards of performance and accountability. The remaining two-thirds of his acquisitions are awarded under full and open competition, aligning with broader agency priorities to balance socioeconomic goals with operational efficiency. Behnke’s primary procurement focus lies in three NAICS categories: petroleum and petroleum products merchant wholesaling, insurance agencies and brokerages, and home and garden equipment repair and maintenance. These sectors require nuanced understanding of supply chain logistics, regulatory compliance in distribution, and service-level performance metrics. His expertise spans procuring bulk fuel logistics, risk management services, and specialized equipment maintenance—demonstrating a versatile technical acumen across both tangible goods and professional services domains.