Which personnel are authorized to execute contract modifications on behalf of the Government?

The authorization to execute contract modifications on behalf of the Government is specifically designated to Contracting Officers. This is because Contracting Officers possess the necessary authority and responsibility to enter into, administer, and modify contracts. They are trained and designated to act in the best interest of the Government in these transactions, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

Senior Managers, while they may have significant oversight and decision-making responsibilities, do not inherently possess the authority to execute contract modifications unless they have also been designated as Contracting Officers. General Government employees lack the necessary training and authority to enter into binding contractual obligations or modifications. Contractors, on the other hand, are external parties who cannot make any decisions or modifications on behalf of the Government; their role is typically limited to performing work as specified in the contract. Thus, only Contracting Officers are empowered to manage these critical functions related to contract modifications.