HARRISBURG, PA — As we observe National Procurement Month, the spotlight is on the dedicated professionals whose work often goes unnoticed but affects our lives in profound ways. The Bureau of Procurement (BOP) under Pennsylvania’s Department of General Services (DGS), alongside procurement professionals across the commonwealth, tirelessly work to provide goods and services that Pennsylvanians rely on every day.
From procuring vital IT infrastructure to acquiring road salt for clearing snowy routes, these teams work behind the scenes. Their efforts ensure seamless access to critical services, medical facilities, goods, and even job and business opportunities for Pennsylvania residents.
The Shapiro administration recently recognized these often-unsung heroes, whose work during the 2022-23 fiscal year supported citizens and businesses with general goods and services worth an astounding $1.1 billion. Governor Josh Shapiro acknowledged these significant contributions by proclaiming March 2024 as Procurement Month in Pennsylvania.
DGS Secretary Reggie McNeil highlighted the role of BOP employees and agency procurement professionals across state government, affirming their commitment to Pennsylvania taxpayers. “Their work is done in the best interest of Pennsylvania taxpayers every day,” he noted.
Improving the state’s services, the BOP secures contracts for vehicles that equip local law enforcement and park rangers. They are responsible for purchasing life-saving medicines, staffing medical facilities, providing counseling services, and opening business opportunities. They are indeed the backbone of the commonwealth’s safety and economic apparatus.
Significant milestones achieved by the BOP include a historic spending of over $1 billion with Small Businesses (SBs), Small Diverse Businesses (SDBs), and Veteran Business Enterprises (VBEs) in one fiscal year, thus invigorating the local economy. The Commonwealth’s spending on prime contracts with SBs has also seen a rise.
The BOP’s strategic renegotiation of the road salt contract saved taxpayers almost $15 million. Furthermore, through astute contract negotiation, and reductions in service and item pricing, the BOP managed to cut costs by $43.5 million during the current fiscal year. Such financial prudence helps utilize taxpayer’s money more efficiently.
Moreover, the BOP ensured enhanced safety and generated considerable revenue by replacing DGS’s old automotive fleet and auctioning off older leased vehicles.
Reducing bureau vacancies has allowed BOP to serve vendors and state agencies better. As part of ongoing improvements, they have sought external consultancy to streamline procurement processes, improve staff training, bolster communications, boost partnerships, and reduce costs.
Deputy Secretary for Procurement, Brian Esposito, expressed pride in leading a dedicated team delivering essential goods and services to Pennsylvanians, and ensuring tax dollars have a positive impact on the community.
As we mark this Procurement Month, let’s take a moment to appreciate the tireless efforts of these individuals, whose work, though out of the limelight, is critical to Pennsylvania’s day-to-day operations.
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