Name: Michael Dixon Jr.
What is your position? District Contracting Chief
Describe your job: I lead a team of contracting professionals that provide cradle-to-grave acquisition services in support of the Charleston District. The Contracting Division’s objective is to partner with our customers to provide effective business solutions that help them accomplish their missions.
What is the most unique thing that you bring to the District? I have a great deal of experience as a contracting officer in high-dollar acquisitions, meaning more than $50 million. I understand the challenges associated with getting a large contract into place and I look forward to helping the Charleston District execute those types of procurements in the most efficient and expeditious way possible.
What is the most rewarding part of your job? I really enjoy working with project managers in selecting the acquisition approach that best mitigates the risks associated with their projects. It’s an exercise in understanding the customer’s needs and applying the right tool that will meet their objectives. The contracting process can be convoluted and inherently difficult to navigate and I always find it to be very rewarding when I can guide a team through that contracting process and help them to achieve their mission.
Highlight a notable milestone or memory in your career. While I was working for the Kansas City District, I had an opportunity to work in a contingency environment in support of a flood event along the Missouri River. The flood event lasted for several months and I was assigned as the lead contracting officer. During these few months, I signed more than 150 contract actions, which helped to mitigate flooding issues for many cities and towns along the Missouri River. The experience was very rewarding since the impact I had was immediate and helped many people get back to their lives.
What goals do you hope to accomplish in your new position? My immediate goal is to come in and help the Charleston District meet their FY17 execution goals. But, long term, I’m looking forward to getting to know my team, learn about their strengths and weaknesses, and provide a culture where they can flourish as business management professionals. I’m already impressed with the Contracting Division here and I can’t wait to see what we can do for the Charleston District in the future.
What is something that most people don’t know about you? I am originally from the southeast, so coming to Charleston feels a lot like coming home. I have family throughout Georgia and Alabama so I feel lucky to have this job opportunity in Charleston, which is so close. As an Auburn football fan, I’m looking forward to being back in an area of the country where SEC football is appreciated. War Eagle!