Theodore Luster

Theodore Luster supports the Office of Acquisition and Grants Management within the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, where he plays a critical role in executing strategic procurements that advance the modernization of Medicare and Medicaid systems. He specializes in acquiring professional and technical services aligned with digital transformation, data analytics, and operational efficiency initiatives. His procurement portfolio centers on consulting, content development, and digital media services essential to improving beneficiary engagement, program integrity, and system security. Luster ensures acquisitions comply with federal procurement regulations while aligning with CMS’s mission to deliver high-quality, secure, and scalable healthcare infrastructure. He maintains a consistent working relationship with Rocket Media Group, LLC, a primary contractor delivering digital content, communications, and multimedia solutions. His contracting pattern reflects a preference for established vendors with demonstrated expertise in public-sector communications and technical service delivery. While he engages with a limited number of contractors, his relationships are characterized by repeat performance, performance-based task order execution, and a focus on outcome-driven deliverables rather than transactional procurement. Luster’s acquisition strategy does not utilize socioeconomic set-asides, with 100% of awards issued under full and open competition. This reflects a deliberate emphasis on selecting the most qualified providers based on technical merit and past performance, regardless of business size or certification status. While small business participation is not formally prioritized through set-asides, his process remains compliant with all federal small business goals and encourages competition from all eligible vendors. His procurement focus is evenly distributed across three NAICS categories: 511210 (Software Publishers), 519190 (Other Information Services), and 541611 (Administrative Management and General Management Consulting Services). He regularly acquires digital content creation, data-driven communication strategies, and strategic advisory services to support CMS’s evolving operational needs, demonstrating deep expertise in information technology-enabled public service delivery.