GSA tags Steven Kempf to lead Federal Acquisition Service

The General Services Administration announced on Thursday that it has named Steven Kempf deputy commissioner of the Federal Acquisition Service, the latest in a string of personnel moves at the government's chief procurement shop.

Kempf is an 18-year veteran of the Federal Acquisition Service and will replace Tyree Varnado, who retired on Jan. 3 after 35 years of federal service. Kempf serves as assistant commissioner of GSA's Office of Acquisition Management, a position he will continue to hold until a replacement is named.

In his new post, Kempf will serve under FAS Commissioner Jim Williams. "Steve knows FAS inside and out, and his long history with the organization ensures continuity in our delivery of outstanding service, innovation and value to our customers and the American taxpayer," Williams said.

GSA acting Administrator Stephen Leeds said, "Steve's 18 years in FAS gives him an expansive and deep understanding of the program's customers, stakeholders and employees. He is the right person to help lead FAS into the new decade."

The announcement is part of a shake-up at GSA that has seen several top officials retire or step down in recent weeks. Acting Administrator Paul Prouty returned to his permanent job as regional commissioner for the agency's Public Buildings Service in the Rocky Mountain Region on Dec. 22, 2009, to spend more time with his family.

Barnaby Brasseux, who served as deputy administrator since September 2008, retired last week. GSA Chief of Staff Danielle Germain stepped down this week to join the National Academy of Public Administration. NAPA's Dan Munz, a senior research associate, announced on Thursday that he will join GSA's Office of Citizen Services and Communications.

Kempf holds a bachelor's degree in history from Marquette University and a law degree and master's of business administration from The George Washington University.