Key Personnel
Specific individuals named in a contract proposal whose qualifications are critical to performance and who cannot be replaced without government approval.
Overview
Key personnel are the specific individuals identified in a contract or proposal whose expertise, experience, and qualifications are considered essential to successful contract performance. Once named, these individuals cannot be replaced or reassigned without the Contracting Officer's written approval. Key personnel clauses are standard in professional services, IT, and technical contracts.
Why It Matters in GovCon
Naming strong key personnel can make or break your proposal. Evaluation teams scrutinize the resumes and qualifications of proposed key personnel closely — especially for the project manager, technical lead, and subject matter experts. After award, losing a key person without an approved replacement of equal caliber can create contract performance issues.
Key Details
- Proposal Impact: Key personnel resumes are typically evaluated as part of the technical/management volume and receive their own evaluation ratings.
- Consent to Replace: The contract clause requires written CO approval before substituting key personnel, with the replacement meeting or exceeding the original person's qualifications.
- Bait and Switch: Proposing highly qualified individuals you do not intend to use is prohibited and can result in protests, termination, or debarment.
- Retention Strategy: Winning contractors need retention plans for key personnel throughout the contract period.
How GovCon Data Can Help
GovCon Data's AI proposal tools help you structure key personnel sections that align with solicitation evaluation criteria, ensuring your staffing approach scores well.
Related Terms
- Performance Work Statement (PWS)
- Statement of Work (SOW)
- Best Value
- Past Performance
More Personnel Terms
A directive issued by the President that carries the force of law for the executive branch.
A globally recognized certification from PMI that validates competency in project management, often required or preferred for key personnel on government contracts.
An individual with specialized knowledge or expertise in a particular area, often proposed as key personnel or consulted during proposal development.
The senior executive responsible for an organization's IT strategy, systems, and operations, overseeing IT investments and cybersecurity.
The senior civilian official responsible for all acquisition matters within a particular military service branch.
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