What Is Government Contract Management?

Government contract management involves establishing and maintaining formal business relationships between government agencies and the private-sector contractors who supply goods or services to them. Working in this field typically requires specific knowledge and expertise.

While some of the basic principles are similar to those in commercial contract management, working with government contracts may be more complicated. Generally, only professionals with specialized knowledge, training and previous experience are considered for government contract management positions. Because these jobs require such specific expertise, they tend to have higher earning potential.

The Challenges of Government Contract Management

Government agencies – including federal, state and local – are required to work within the confines of stringent regulations. While it’s permissible for a government agency to adjust the terms or scope of a project while that project is going on, the contractor responsible for the project has a right to be compensated for the work they do and any losses they incur because of the change.

Those working in government contract management also should be aware that a government agency can terminate a contract at any time. The contracting company must still be compensated, however, as long as the termination of the contract was not the result of a breach of the terms on their part. In order to receive proper compensation, the company must file the appropriate settlement paperwork in a timely fashion.

Also, while missing deadlines is usually frowned upon in the business world, it can be especially costly in the realm of government contract management. Because of this, government contractors and sub-contractors should be prepared, well-informed and thoroughly trained in every aspect of government contract management, so they can complete projects and close deals in the most efficient ways possible.

They should also be able to communicate effectively with the other members of their organization to ensure that everyone in the contracting agency is on the same page and understands their responsibilities.

Education and Certification for Government Contract Management

One of the ways to prepare for a career in this field is to complete specialized training and obtain industry-recognized certification. The National Contract Management Association (NCMA) and National Association of Government Contractors (NAGC) offer certifications that typically garner high esteem in the world of government contract management.

In addition to its Certified Commercial Contract Manager (CCCM) designation, the NCMA offers Certified Federal Contract Manager (CFCM) and Certified Professional Contract Manager (CPCM) credentials.

Those who specialize in selling goods or services to government agencies can obtain NAGC certification as a Certified Government Contractor (CGC). Holding one or more of these certifications is one way to prove your mastery of the government contract management process to current or prospective employers.

Prepare for Government Contract Management Certification 100% Online

If you’re interested in pursuing government contract management training but concerned about fitting classes into a demanding work schedule, online learning is an option. Villanova University offers a comprehensive Certificate in Contract Management program 100% online.

Students can learn from active practitioners in the field of government contract management, and collaborate with their instructor and classmates through live class sessions, online discussion boards and virtual whiteboards. With 24/7 access, you can ‘attend class’ anytime and anywhere with an internet connection.

Upon successful completion of the certificate program, you’ll earn your Certificate in Contract Management – and you can be prepared to sit for the CFCM, CPCM and CCCM certification exams through NCMA.