Robert J. James

Robert J. James serves as a Contract Specialist and Contracting Officer’s Representative (CDR), responsible for managing the full lifecycle of complex procurement actions within the naval shipbuilding and repair sector. He ensures compliance with federal acquisition regulations while facilitating timely and cost-effective contract awards that support national defense readiness. His portfolio centers on the design, construction, modernization, and maintenance of naval vessels and associated systems, requiring deep technical oversight and rigorous contract administration. James plays a critical role in aligning acquisition strategy with operational requirements, working closely with engineering, logistics, and program management teams to deliver mission-critical capabilities. James maintains a streamlined contracting approach focused on a limited pool of highly specialized shipyard contractors and marine systems integrators with proven expertise in naval architecture and defense-grade fabrication. His working relationships are characterized by long-term collaboration with vendors possessing the necessary facility certifications, quality assurance protocols, and naval experience required for secure, high-integrity shipbuilding projects. He emphasizes performance-based contracting, clear statement of work development, and structured contract modifications to manage evolving technical scopes. James demonstrates a consistent preference for open competition, with 100% of his acquisitions conducted without set-aside restrictions. While he does not prioritize socioeconomic programs such as 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB, his procurement strategy prioritizes capability, capacity, and compliance over socioeconomic categorization, ensuring that mission-critical shipbuilding requirements are met by the most qualified industrial base. His primary procurement focus is exclusively under NAICS 336611—Ship Building and Repairing—encompassing the acquisition of combatant vessels, auxiliary ships, repair dry docks, and integrated propulsion and combat systems. He possesses deep expertise in naval engineering standards, MIL-SPEC compliance, and maritime logistics, making him a key technical liaison between acquisition and operational fleets.