Richard E. Fries, Jr.

Richard E. Fries, Jr. serves as a Contracting Officer responsible for managing complex procurement actions across a diverse portfolio of industrial and support services. He plays a critical role in executing agency acquisition objectives by ensuring compliance with federal contracting regulations, including the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), while promoting efficient and competitive sourcing practices. His acquisitions typically involve facilities support, food service operations, and specialized manufacturing sectors, requiring careful evaluation of technical specifications, performance metrics, and supply chain reliability. Fries ensures that procurements align with statutory requirements and agency mission needs, balancing operational urgency with fiscal accountability. While specific contractor relationships are not publicly detailed, Fries engages with a broad spectrum of vendors, including large prime contractors and small businesses, to fulfill requirements across multiple technical domains. His contracting approach emphasizes open competition and transparent evaluation processes, fostering collaborative vendor partnerships grounded in performance-based outcomes and contract compliance. He routinely works with firms capable of delivering integrated support services and precision-manufactured equipment, maintaining a focus on quality assurance and contract administration excellence. Fries demonstrates a strong commitment to socioeconomic contracting, with 80% of his acquisitions conducted under full and open competition and 20% designated as Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5. He consistently prioritizes small business participation, ensuring eligible firms have equitable access to opportunities without reliance on other set-aside programs such as 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB. His contracting patterns reflect a balanced strategy that supports broader economic development goals while maintaining procurement integrity. His primary industry focus centers on NAICS 561210 (Facilities Support Services), 722310 (Food Service Contractors), 337214 (Office Furniture Manufacturing), 325413 (In-Vitro Diagnostic Substance Manufacturing), and 334513 (Industrial Process Instrumentation). These categories reflect expertise in procuring both commercial off-the-shelf equipment and specialized services requiring technical oversight, positioning him as a specialist in hybrid acquisitions spanning logistics, manufacturing, and operational support.