Procurement and Contract Management

At the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM), the Office of Procurement and Contracts supports the agency’s mission by delivering transparent, compliant, and efficient procurement and contracting services that ensure critical goods and services are available when and where they are needed most. Our office plays a central role in supporting both daily agency operations and statewide emergency response and recovery efforts.

The Office of Procurement and Contracts manages the full lifecycle of procurements and contracts in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws, rules, and regulations. This includes developing solicitations, conducting competitive procurements, evaluating vendor responses, negotiating contracts, and providing contract administration and oversight to safeguard public funds and mitigate risk.

Our team works collaboratively with agency programs, legal counsel, state partners, and vendors to procure a wide range of goods and services that support FDEM’s operational and emergency management responsibilities. These procurements include professional and consulting services, information technology systems, software and communications platforms, training and certification programs, logistics support, and emergency response resources.

In support of disaster preparedness, response, and recovery operations, the office also manages complex emergency contracts for sheltering and housing, fuel, transportation, logistics, medical support, staffing, and other mission-critical services. During activations, Procurement and Contracts personnel operate within the State Emergency Operations Center as part of the Logistics Vendor Services Branch, coordinating with vendors and partner agencies to rapidly secure and deploy resources across the state.

The Office of Procurement and Contracts remains committed to accountability, operational excellence, and continuous readiness. Through strategic procurement practices and strong vendor partnerships, we help ensure Florida is prepared to respond effectively to emergencies while supporting the agency’s year-round operations and mission to serve Florida’s communities.

Tara Walters, Director of Procurement

Jenene Helms, Deputy Director of Procurement

Jordan Irving, Deputy Director of Contracts