#PoweredByTalent-Cherissa Tamayori
Defense Innovation Unit (DIU)
Accelerating commercial technology for national security.
Cherissa Tamayori is the Director of Acquisition and Senior Contracting Official for the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU). She? manages DIU’s acquisition functions and leads a team of senior acquisition professionals leveraging the use of the Other Transaction Authority to accelerate the adoption of commercial technology within the DoD.
Prior to joining DIU, Cherissa served as a contracting officer in the Navy where she managed multi-billion dollar contract portfolios for various undersea systems programs. As a contract specialist, she negotiated and administered complex shipbuilding procurements including the refueling, overhaul, and modernization of a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier and the design and construction of auxiliary ships and patrol boats. In addition to these roles, Cherissa has served in various contracting positions within the Navy.
INTERVIEW
Why were you interested in working at DIU?
The majority of my career has been in public service. I have always been interested in learning from commercial sector leaders--how these entities operate, what their interests are, how decisions are made -- so the DoD can be a better partner.? The diversity of experiences, from operational to commercial, within DIU allows us to learn from and collaborate with a wide range of technical experts, an opportunity that is rarely seen in government acquisition offices.
What is your favorite DIU experience?
DIU is a relatively young organization, and I have really enjoyed being a part of its growth story. I’m extremely proud of my team for championing the use of the Other Transaction Authority across the DoD and helping to drive DIU’s impact through the prototypes we’ve been able to contract over the last five years!
?What emerging commercial technologies are you most excited about?
Lately, I’m excited about DIU’s new Responsible Artificial Intelligence (RAI) guidance. AI is a powerful and ever-evolving tool; like any technology, however, it can result in unintended consequences if left unchecked. As a buyer of AI technology, the government needs to proactively address ethical concerns, and I believe the RAI report is going to help the program management and acquisition communities do just that!
Pro-Tech Group, LLC, Integrated Systems Design, LLC Board Member at GameAbove-EMU
11 个月I hope this message finds you well. I would like to take the opportunity to share with you information about two new products that we believe may be of interest to the Defense Innovation unit. To provide you with a better understanding of our offerings, I have attached videos showcasing these new products for your review. We are excited about the potential they hold for enhancing operations and efficiency within the Defense Innovation Unit. Please take a moment to review the videos and let me know a suitable time for us to connect and delve deeper into how our products can benefit the Military. I am eager to hear your thoughts and discuss how we can move forward together. Pro-Tech Group - Container -?https://vimeo.com/526263290 ? Pro-Tech Group 1 - Bi-Directional Loader -?https://www.protechgroup.us/bi-directional-loader? ? Thank you for considering our products, and I look forward to the opportunity to engage in a meaningful conversation with you. Best regards,
Engineering and Acquisition Professional
3 年Congratulations Cherissa T.
Tackling the tough business and marketing challenges that Technology companies face in the Aerospace and Defense Markets
3 年We are big DIU fans (and for other Government/Military groups that are forging change). DIU may only have a 5-year history - although from an outsider's view (industry perspective) - it is a change agent making a significant mark - and setting the tone for future organizations to continue the drive. Read an excerpt from your interview - clear that DIU is the right choice for you - and that DIU will benefit from your experience and contributions!
because innovation thrives or dies in the contracting shop
3 年"What is your favorite DIU experience? - I’m extremely proud of my team for championing the use of the Other Transaction Authority across the DoD and helping to drive DIU’s impact through the prototypes..." Keep up the great work!