The Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce and Professional Services Council have unveiled the finalists for the 14th Annual Greater Washington Government Contractor Awards, the premier awards event for the Washington area government contracting community. The winners will be named at a Nov. 1 gala dinner at the Ritz-Carlton Tysons Corner.
WashingtonExec sat down with one of this year’s GovCon Awards Gold Sponsor, Larkin Wilson, Managing Director of Government Contract Lending at United Bank, to discuss the GovCon marketplace.
WashingtonExec: What motivated your company to take part in the GovCon Awards?
Larkin Wilson: United Bank believes that the government contracting industry is one of the sectors most critical to our country’s success. We feel that it is important to recognize and honor the companies and leaders that propel our nation forward.
WashingtonExec: Where in the GovCon space does your company work?
Larkin Wilson: United Bank has supported emerging businesses through rapid expansion and assisted mature government contractors in reaching their next level of success. From financing to cash management, United Bank provides the products, services and technology that our GovCon customers demand, while taking the time to develop personalized solutions and lasting relationships.
WashingtonExec: As these awards are in large part a recognition of great leaders in the GovCon space, what do you believe are qualities that make a great leader?
Larkin Wilson: While there are many qualities that make a great leader, I believe the most important is communication. Good communication allows leaders to motivate and inspire their team members to achieve the organization’s mission in a unified and efficient manner. Many elements contribute to a company’s success, but ultimately, it is dependent upon a leader who can clearly communicate his/her vision.
WashingtonExec: What makes your company a great place to work?
Larkin Wilson: United Bank’s employees exemplify our core values of hard work, teamwork, integrity and caring. We value our people and understand that the service they provide to our customers and communities is our differentiator. Our entrepreneurial culture, commitment to leadership development and fun activities like employee appreciation week make United a place where people love to work.
WashingtonExec: How is your business involved in the community? (corporate citizenship)
Larkin Wilson: At United, banking means more than providing financial solutions; it means rallying around the causes that matter to our employees, customers and neighbors. Each year, we support hundreds of local organizations with sponsorships and donations, while contributing to community vitality through financial education, affordable housing and volunteerism. Our employees take active roles in the community, providing strategic direction, technical assistance and thousands of volunteer hours to causes that improve the lives of our neighbors.
