Sara Epstein, Contracting Officer

Sara Epstein serves as the primary Contracting Officer for the U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, overseeing the acquisition of mission-critical services that support diplomatic engagement and public diplomacy initiatives under the Department of State. Her role centers on executing timely and compliant procurements for high-profile diplomatic events, cultural exchanges, and official receptions that advance U.S.-Malaysia bilateral relations. She manages a diverse portfolio of service-based contracts, primarily focused on event production, venue logistics, and hospitality support, ensuring alignment with federal procurement regulations and the Embassy’s strategic communication objectives. Epstein cultivates partnerships with a broad range of vendors specializing in event management, convention services, and facility support, including firms with proven expertise in international diplomatic settings. While no single contractor dominates her award portfolio, she consistently engages with contractors capable of delivering turnkey event solutions across diverse cultural and logistical environments. Her procurement approach emphasizes performance-based outcomes, vendor reliability, and adaptability to dynamic diplomatic schedules, fostering long-term relationships with service providers who understand the sensitivity and protocol requirements of U.S. diplomatic missions. Epstein’s contracting activity reflects a strong preference for full and open competition, with 100% of her acquisitions issued without set-aside designations, including no use of 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB programs. This reflects the Embassy’s operational need for specialized, scalable, and internationally experienced vendors rather than socioeconomic targeting. Her approach prioritizes capability and mission readiness over socioeconomic preferences, aligning with the unique constraints of overseas diplomatic operations. Her primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 711310 (promoters of performing arts and events), 561920 (convention and trade show organizers), 561790 (building services), and 721110 (hotels). She specializes in securing comprehensive event execution services, including venue coordination, technical production, guest management, and hospitality logistics, demonstrating deep expertise in the intersection of diplomacy, event planning, and international service procurement.