Partnerships

Address a Concern (Ombudsman)

An ombudsman provides a way for anyone in a business relationship with ORNL to voice concerns and resolve issues. The ombudsman is one resource to facilitate ORNL's commitment to maintain effective, hospitable, and mutually beneficial business partnerships with external stakeholders in areas of technology transfer including technology partnerships, patents and technology licensing as well as members the supplier, contractor, and technical partnership communities.

Mike Frietze is the ORNL Ombudsman and can assist with these unique attributes. Issues ranging from intellectual property disputes to dealing with the differences between ORNL and the private sector can be addressed through his office. He can also guide business partners to the appropriate formal and official resources for problem reporting and resolution. You may contact the ORNL Ombudsman directly by email at frietzemj@ornl.gov or by phone at 865/576-3650.