The finalists for WashingtonExec’s Chief Officer Awards were announced March 28, and we’ll be highlighting some of them until the event takes place live, in-person May 10.
Next is Carl Buffington, chief growth officer at Koniag Government Services, and finalist in the Private Company Chief Growth Officer (Annual Revenue greater than $500M) category. Here, he shares key achievements, focus areas going forward, career advice and more.
What key achievements did you have in 2023?
One of the things I’m most proud of is leading the development of an artificial intelligence tool called CASPER to expedite our growth initiatives. By harnessing proprietary data models, similar to widely used platforms like Chat GPT, the tool essentially reduced the time required to draft a 20-page technical approach document by 80-90% into something that takes just 40 minutes. It not only made the process much more efficient but also saved money and boosted data privacy. This innovative approach to new business development, increased the KGS contract ceiling values to over $3 billion. Furthermore, we have propelled revenue from $130 million to over $765 million in just five years.
Once I realized CASPER’s potential, I extended it to our clients, helping them tackle their own tough business challenges. For example, it helped an Environmental Protection Agency customer analyze a large volume of grant documents crucial to protect watersheds, resulting in significant time savings, improved accuracy and better solutions.
Over the last five years we have implemented AI, robotic process automation and other innovative processes that have led to a nearly 400% increase in revenue and an over 500% increase in EBITDA.
What are your primary focus areas going forward, and why are they so important to your mission?
Going forward, my primary focus revolves around four key initiatives that are crucial to advancing our mission. The first is about doing more with what we have. By leveraging innovations from our annual Innovation Spikes which gives KGS employees an opportunity to share their innovative ideas, and the valuable insights and materials generated in our Communities of Practice, we will accelerate progress, optimize resources and drive continuous improvement across our organization. Maximizing the use of our existing innovations allows us to meet the evolving needs of our customers and employees in a dynamic and rapidly changing environment.
The second initiative is institutionalizing automation. Developing AI and RPA enhances efficiency, accuracy and scalability on routine tasks, enabling us to better serve our customers while freeing up resources for more complex challenges.
My third initiative is expanding KGS’ Strategic Partner Program which was announced in June of 2023. Building on the success of our initial participants Decision Point and Leisnoi. Collaborating with strategic partners amplifies our impact, fosters innovation, and strengthens our ability to address complex challenges facing our government customers. This is directly tied to the fourth initiative, concentrating efforts to secure large competitive contracts.
By winning larger competitive deals, we ensure the long-term viability and prosperity of our organization, allowing us to continue delivering vital support and services to our 4000+ member Alaska Native community for years to come.
By prioritizing these focus areas, we can drive meaningful progress, foster innovation, and create lasting positive impact for the communities we serve.
What is your best career advice for those who want to follow in your footsteps?
Be patient . . . always focus on improving your value . . . the results will come.
Fun Fact: What is something about you that most people do not know about?
I love sports, especially team sports because they are packed with life lessons. I have coached youth sports for some time because I love to be involved with young people and their journey to use sports to help build their character and resiliency. I stay positive with them in competitive environments but also make sure they have a great experience whether they win or lose.