The Coalition for Common Sense in Government Procurement (Coalition) is deeply saddened by the passing of our friend and colleague, Robert “Bob” Metzger. Bob was a pioneering force in the areas of cybersecurity, supply chain risk management, national security, and government contracting. His leadership, expertise, and generosity made a lasting impact on the Coalition and its members, as well as the legal and procurement communities.
Bob was recognized nationally and internationally as a leader in cybersecurity law and a trusted expert across the Federal Government. Over the course of his remarkable 47-year legal career, Bob was admired for his analytical mind and dedication to advancing sound legal principles. His expertise was pivotal in shaping the history of cybersecurity and government contracting. One standout example of his impact is the 2018 report co-authored with MITRE for the Department of Defense entitled, “Deliver Uncompromised: A Strategy for Supply Chain Security and Resilience in Response to the Changing Character of War.” This report is widely regarded as a key catalyst for the development of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) program. His accomplishments are too numerous to count, but what truly set Bob apart was his ability to make sense of complex issues and turn that into meaningful policy reform. His voice, perspective, and presence in the field will be long remembered.
Bob’s contributions to the Coalition were invaluable. As co-chair of our Cyber & Supply Chain Committee, he was a driving force behind our work on evolving cybersecurity policies. He took the lead in drafting many of the Coalition’s comments and letters to the Federal Government, including on major efforts like CMMC and NIST 800-171, and regularly lent his expertise through thoughtful briefings at committee meetings. He frequently appeared as a panelist at Coalition events, including our annual Spring and Fall Training Conferences and our inaugural Cyberside Chat™, and played a major role in helping us secure key government officials for these programs. A pillar of common sense in cybersecurity, Bob shared his insight generously and always made time to help the Coalition navigate complex and critical issues. We will remember not only his thought leadership, but also his kindness, supportiveness, and unwavering commitment to our mission of advancing common sense in government procurement.
“Bob Metzger was a true leader in cybersecurity and national security law,” said Coalition President Roger Waldron. “His voice carried tremendous weight across the government contracting community, and his guidance helped shape the government’s approach to several of the most pressing cyber and supply chain challenges. His impact cannot be overstated. He was an invaluable partner to the Coalition and a dear friend to many. His contributions and presence will be deeply missed.”
The Coalition extends our heartfelt condolences to Bob’s family, friends, and colleagues. His legacy will continue to inspire us.