Promoting Unity of Effort through Industry Engagement

By Soraya Correa, DHS Chief Procurement Officer
October 28, 2016

Last week, we were honored to join almost 600 industry partners and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) leaders for a Strategic Industry Conversation event. Our industry partners are well positioned to assist the Department in solving problems, improving processes, and supporting diverse mission areas.

The Strategic Industry Conversation is not your typical “industry day” focused on specific procurements. Instead, it is a venue for DHS and industry to discuss program topics that span multiple DHS Offices and Components and impact the DHS Unity of Effort initiative.

Under Secretary for Management Russ Deyo delivered keynote remarks, during which he emphasized the Department’s commitment to working with industry to improve mission outcomes. Deputy Under Secretary for Management and Chief Financial Officer Chip Fulghum discussed how Management’s integrated priorities helped improve existing acquisitions by developing new processes where needed. Deputy Assistant Secretary for Unity of Effort Integration Drew Kuepper spoke on the Department’s Unity of Effort Integrated Priorities and how they relate to our industry engagement approach.

Nine breakout sessions, led by industry leaders and Department employees, encouraged participants to discuss various topics across the homeland security enterprise, from research and development to cybersecurity acquisitions. Vendors interested in specific mission areas (e.g., aviation security) were able to hear from, and speak with, DHS and industry leaders who are actively engaged in those mission areas.

Over the course of the day, industry provided DHS with constructive feedback on how to better communicate during all phases of the acquisition lifecycle. Our industry partners also gained greater perspective into the Department, its priorities, and how it approaches acquisition.

As the Department’s Chief Procurement Officer, I am proud to have engaged with our industry partners for a day of clear and open communication--a crucial first step in strengthening our engagements.

The Department is committed to working with our industry partners in order to reach new heights in industry‑government communication. The Strategic Industry Day was just one example.  Please join us as we work to make DHS the best partner in government.

For more information on doing business with the Department please visit: www.dhs.gov/do-business-dhs.