Dr. William Vantine, president and CEO of Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc., is among the finalists for the Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce and Professional Services Council’s annual Greater Washington Government Contractor Awards in the Executive of the Year category for companies between $75 million and $300 million. The winners will be announced at an awards program Nov. 5.
WashingtonExec spoke with Vantine about important leadership qualities, his first job in the industry and advice he would give his own children.
WashingtonExec: What are the top one or two leadership qualities necessary to be a great leader?
Vantine: I believe that one must first have a clear vision of where they want to take their organization, and then be decisive in moving in that direction — making informed decisions and motivating their team to get things done. In order to create that vision and make informed decisions, there must be clear, honest and transparent two-way communications with your team. It is imperative that a leader always be willing to listen to ideas that may run counter to their own, and be humble enough to recognize that no single person “has all the answers, all the time.”
WashingtonExec: If we were to speak directly to your leadership team, what would they say is your management style?
Vantine: I would like to think that they would say that I am always willing to listen, am receptive to good ideas, and that accountability, responsibility and authority are the crux of my leadership style.
WashingtonExec: What is the No. 1 business book that had the largest impact on your life or professional development?
Vantine: Anything by Jack Welch.
WashingtonExec: What advice do you have for aspiring leaders in the government contracting industry?
Vantine: Treat people as you would want to be treated — with dignity, respect and fairness. Hard work, high standards and strong ethics are the underpinnings of good leaders. To be successful in the government contracting industry, you must deliver high-quality work and view the customer as a long-term partner. If you do what is right for the customer and your people, the rest will take care of itself. Relationships built on trust are the key to success.
WashingtonExec: What was your first job?
Vantine: I worked at NASA.
WashingtonExec: Overall, how did that experience shape your career?
Vantine: When lives depend on your work product, input or answers to questions, you learn to always be honest and candid. If you do not know the answer, admit it… and then go find it.
WashingtonExec: What advice would you give your kids?
Vantine: You should do that for which you have a passion. Make sure you understand what excites you, and then find a company that will challenge you in that field and where people are a priority. Make sure the company has a plan for career growth, employee development, good communications and a quality work environment. Always do your very best every day for the company and your clients — no matter how mundane the assignment may seem. Be flexible and patient — you very likely will have to explore a few options before you settle on a career path. Do not be afraid to make mistakes and always be open to new ideas, which will help you grow professionally. Finally, do not burn bridges — always be professional and thoughtful. The people you meet today may someday be influential to your future.