Chris Benson Appointed as Tennessee's Chief Procurement Officer

Nashville, TN - The Tennessee Department of General Services Commissioner Andy Kidd announced today that Gov. Bill Lee has appointed Chris Benson as the State's new Chief Procurement Officer, effective November 1, 2026.

Benson has more than 12 years of experience in Tennessee State Government, including extensive leadership experience in procurement, contract management, vendor relations, and operational efficiency. His appointment marks a return to the Central Procurement Office (CPO), where he began his State government career in February 2014.

"There's something special about seeing someone return to where they started, bringing with them years of experience and a fresh perspective," said Commissioner Kidd. "Chris has built an impressive record of leadership and service across State government. He understands the importance of strong procurement practices, collaborative relationships, and delivering value for Tennesseans. I'm excited to welcome him back to CPO as its new leader."

Benson began his career as a Category Specialist with CPO, procuring and managing statewide IT contracts. He then served as a Sourcing Account Specialist with CPO, managing contracts and procurement activities in support of the Tennessee Department of Transportation. In 2017, he joined the Tennessee Department of Military as Procurement Director, overseeing procurement operations for multiple divisions, including the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency and the Tennessee National Guard.

In 2019, Benson joined Strategic Technology Solutions (STS) within the Department of Finance and Administration as Director of Business Operations. He was promoted to Deputy Director of Enterprise Governance & Administration in December 2024. In that role, he oversees enterprise technology procurement, contract management, vendor relations, and other administrative functions. His accomplishments include establishing the STS Vendor Management Office to strengthen supplier accountability and performance oversight.

"I'm honored and grateful to Governor Lee and Commissioner Kidd for the opportunity to serve as Tennessee's Chief Procurement Officer," said Benson. "Returning to the Central Procurement Office, where my State government career began, makes this opportunity especially meaningful. I look forward to working alongside the talented CPO team and our partners across State government to strengthen procurement practices, support our agencies, and ensure we're delivering the best possible value for Tennessee taxpayers."

Benson holds a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. He is also a graduate of LEAD Tennessee and the Tennessee Government Executive Institute.

As Chief Procurement Officer, Benson will lead the Central Procurement Office within the Department of General Services. CPO is responsible for establishing statewide procurement policies, managing statewide contracts, and supporting State agencies in purchasing goods and services.

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About the Tennessee Department of General Services

The Tennessee Department of General Services provides essential services that support the operations of State government, including procurement, real estate management, facilities management, vehicle and asset management, and document solutions. Through these services, the department helps State agencies operate efficiently and effectively while serving the people of Tennessee.