Who has the authority to enter into and administer contracts on behalf of the government and may issue determinations and findings?

• A. Contracting Officer (CO)
• B. COR
• C. Contract Manager
• D. Program Manager

Answer: (A)

The Contracting Officer is the official who has the authority to enter into and administer contracts on behalf of the government, and to issue determinations and findings to support contractual actions. This officer is granted a contract warrant that legally binds the government in terms and conditions, modifications, and required determinations and findings that justify decisions in the acquisition process. The Contracting Officer’s Representative can assist with technical direction and monitoring, but cannot bind the government or issue formal determinations and findings. The Contract Manager handles day-to-day contract administration under the CO’s authority, not the signing or modification of contracts. The Program Manager focuses on program objectives and coordination, without contracting authority.