The finalists for WashingtonExec’s Chief Officer Awards were announced March 25, and we’ll be highlighting some of them until the event takes place live, in-person May 11 at the The Ritz-Carlton in McLean, Virginia.
Next is CEO (Private Company Annual Revenue >$150M & <$500M) finalist Oscar Montes, CEO of Magellan Federal. Here, he talks key recent achievements, learning from failures, proud career moments and more.
What key achievements did you have in 2021/2022?
There are several key contract wins that the team worked exceptionally hard to secure. One was the Military and Family Life Counseling East contract, with an estimated value of $2 billion over five years. Additionally, we won the Navy, Air Force, and Defense Department civilian Employee Assistance Program contracts, solidifying our position as a leading provider of federal behavioral health services.
Another highlight is we enhanced the Magellan Federal leadership team, hiring three amazing new business unit leaders, a new chief information officer and a new strategy and growth chief. This talented team is building an industry leading set of capabilities that we will carry forward and leverage in 2022 and beyond.
What are you most proud of having been a part of in your current organization?
Our team makes an enormous impact on the wellbeing of millions of uniformed and civilian employees of the federal government. In addition to supporting individuals in high-stress occupations, it improves force readiness and ultimately bolsters our national security.
What’s one key thing you learned from a failure you had?
The worst and most regrettable failures come from not doing something you know you should do. Listen to your team and to yourself.
Looking back at your career, what are you most proud of?
From my days as a fighter pilot and naval officer, to my time in federal health, the most rewarding moments have come from leading high-performing teams to make a difference that matters.
What’s your best career advice for those who want to follow in your footsteps?
Play to your personal strengths and build a team that fills in for your weaknesses. Trust them, empower them and harness their diverse perspectives to propel your organization forward.