In this episode, former GSA director Chris Hamm joins Jeff Shapiro to break down major shifts in federal procurement—including consolidation, protests, and innovation barriers. With insider insights and candid takes, it’s a must-listen for anyone navigating GovCon today.
Guest:
Chris Hamm, former Director, GSA Assisted Acquisition Services
🎧 Host:
Jeff Shapiro, Optimize Podcast
📄 Episode Description:
In this episode of the Optimize Podcast, Jeff Shapiro sits down with former GSA leader Chris Hamm to explore the state—and future—of federal procurement. With firsthand experience at the helm of GSA’s Assisted Acquisition Services, Chris shares his perspective on the challenges of consolidating contracts, the tension between innovation and risk aversion, and the cultural drivers behind federal protest trends.
They tackle what the recent executive order on contract consolidation really means, how government-wide contracts are evolving, and why acquisition teams often default to “safe” over smart. Chris also discusses the SBIR program, eBuy critiques, and how to build a better, more accountable procurement system.
Whether you're an acquisition professional, contractor, or policy follower, this episode delivers sharp, honest insights you won't hear anywhere else.
📌 Topics & Timestamps:
Chris’s path into GSA and early federal service (03:20)
Executive order on contract consolidation (08:12)
Culture vs. policy: Why risk aversion dominates (19:30)
Protest culture and unintended consequences (25:00)
GWACs and the potential impact on programs like NASA SEWP (30:00)
RFO/FAR overhaul and tech modernization (39:15)
Thoughts on eBuy, automation, and procurement platforms (47:30)
SBIR program and small business innovation (1:00:55)
Chris’s current work supporting GovCon companies (1:04:30)
🔗 Useful Links:
Optimize Podcast: https://www.visiblethread.com/podcasts/
Connect with host Jeff Shapiro: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffshapirocpa/
Connect with guest Chris Hamm: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-hamm-304103/