Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) has granted Verizon’s Federal Network
Systems (FNS) unit with strategic supplier status under a new memorandum of
understanding (MOU).
The deal recognizes Verizon FNS’ strategic value as a provider of
telecommunications operations and maintenance services vital to SNL’s
operations, one of the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE’s) largest and most
diverse research and development facilities.
The New Mexico lab is home to more than 8,300 employees charged with a complex mission, which includes designing, developing and testing the nation’s weapons systems.
“Strategic supplier status is recognized when a supplier has achieved an
outstanding record for providing value-added services that are vital to the
safety and effectiveness of the operation,” Gary Romero, SNL team leader for
strategic sourcing, said in a statement.
Last month, Verizon FNS and SNL signed a non-binding strategic supplier MOU.
Under these guidelines, Verizon FNS will continue to align staff, processes
and management structure with SNL’s goals and objectives. It will also dedicate
resources to identify subcontracting opportunities with local businesses.
“Verizon FNS is committed to the continued viability and success of our
strategic relationship with SNL and will continue working to ensure that the
strategic relationship program’s goals and metrics are met,”
said Douglas C. Gilbert, Verizon FNS director of U.S. Department of Energy
operations.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed.