When making purchases, which entity provides oversight to ensure compliance with procurement regulations?

The oversight of compliance with procurement regulations is primarily the responsibility of the Contracting Officer. This role is critical within the procurement process, as the Contracting Officer ensures that all purchases align with established regulatory frameworks, policies, and procedures outlined in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and other pertinent guidelines.

The Contracting Officer is equipped with the authority to enter into, administer, and terminate contracts as well as to make related determinations and findings. This oversight function is crucial in preventing misuse of funds, ensuring fair competition, and maintaining the integrity of the procurement process. Consequently, the Contracting Officer plays a vital role in safeguarding that all procurement actions are legally compliant and meet the government's needs effectively and efficiently.

In contrast, while the Procurement Team often supports purchasing activities, they may not have the same level of authority or regulatory responsibility as the Contracting Officer. The Program Manager may oversee specific projects but typically does not have direct oversight of procurement compliance. The Agency Director may set policies and provide overall guidance but is not involved in day-to-day procurement oversight. Each of these roles supports the procurement process, but it is the Contracting Officer who holds the key authority and responsibility for ensuring compliance with procurement regulations.