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 John Ayers, founder and CEO of REDLattice, and finalist in the Private Company CEO category (Annual Revenue Greater than $20M and Less than $100M). Here, he shares key achievements, focus areas going forward, career advice and more.
What key achievements did you have in 2023?
2023 was a very significant year for REDLattice. After 10 years of steadily building our company, last year we achieved significant milestones that propelled our growth and solidified our position in the market. A snapshot of some of our key achievements include:
- Partnership with AE Industrial Partners: We successfully partnered with a leading private equity firm, AE Industrial Partners, to accelerate the growth of our company. This strategic alliance provided us with invaluable resources, expertise, and support to expand our operations and enhance our market presence.
- Revenue Growth: Our relentless focus on innovation, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency resulted in remarkable revenue growth of over 25% year over year. This achievement underscores the effectiveness of our business strategies and the increasing demand for our products/services in the market.
- Contract Awards: We secured awards totaling more than $150 million in contract value, showcasing the trust and confidence placed in our company by clients and partners. These contracts not only contribute to our financial success but also validate the quality and relevance of our offerings in meeting market needs.
- Headcount Expansion: To support our expanding operations and capitalize on new opportunities, our company experienced a headcount growth of more than 20%. This increase in talent underscores our commitment to building a robust team of skilled professionals who are dedicated to driving our company’s success.
Overall, 2023 was a transformative year for our company marked by strategic partnerships, impressive revenue growth, significant contract wins, and expansion of our talented workforce. These achievements position us strongly for continued success and sustained growth in the years ahead.
What are your primary focus areas going forward, and why are those so important to the mission?
Moving forward, our company is dedicated to maintaining a leading position in the critical realm of cyber warfare. As the boundaries between Computer Network Operations/Offensive Cyber Operations, Information Operations, and Electronic Warfare blur, we are steadfast in our commitment to pioneering state-of-the-art technologies and delivering cutting-edge services to drive progress in this dynamic field.
Our unwavering dedication to our customers and their missions will continue to guide our strategic initiatives. Moreover, our people, who are the cornerstone of our success, will remain our most invaluable asset. We are committed to nurturing and expanding our talented workforce to ensure that we have the expertise and capabilities needed to meet evolving challenges head-on.
In pursuit of our objectives, both mergers and acquisitions and organic growth will remain at the forefront of our strategy. By strategically combining acquisitions with our ongoing efforts to cultivate internal talent and capabilities, we aim to further strengthen our position in the market and drive sustainable success.
In essence, our vision is clear: To be the preeminent force driving innovation and advancement in cyber warfare. We are resolute in our commitment to our customers, our people, and our mission as we continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in this critical domain.
What is your best career advice for those who want to follow in your footsteps?
When it comes to career advice, I’ve gathered plenty over the years ⏤ dos, don’ts and even a few examples of things best left out of emails. But let’s save that discussion for a session over drinks sometime. Recently, I read “Shoe Dog” by Phil Knight, founder of Nike, and one line really struck a chord with me: “The cowards never started, and the weak died along the way.”
His quote encapsulates the grit, determination and resilience necessary for success, especially for those walking the entrepreneurial path. Reflecting on my own journey, the biggest leap I took was departing from the safety net of a stable, predictable job.
Phil’s words remind us that setbacks and challenges are inevitable, but it’s those who persevere despite them that ultimately thrive. So, to anyone following a similar path, I encourage you to embrace fearlessness and persistence while remaining grounded and humble.
Don’t let the fear of failure or the comfort of routine hold you back. Pursue your dreams relentlessly, recognizing that each setback is an opportunity for growth and every obstacle is a chance to prove your mettle. Remember, luck favors the prepared ⏤ do your homework, stay sharp, and seize every opportunity that comes your way.
In essence, success requires courage, perseverance, and resilience. So, take that first step, stay the course, and let nothing stand in the way of your aspirations. In the “other” immortal words of Phil Knight and Nike, “Just do it.”
Fun Fact: What is something about you that most people do not know about?
I am an avid skier. In the last 14 months I have skied Breckenridge, Park City, Telluride, Sun Valley, Big Sky and Jackson Hole. I take almost all my vacations in the winter and there is almost no place I would rather be than on a lift in 20-degree weather with snow coming down.