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 Trey Theimer, chief growth officer at DMI, and finalist in the Chief Growth Officer Public & Private (annual revenue greater than $100 million and less than $500 million) category. Here, she shares key achievements, focus areas going forward, career advice and more.
What key achievements did you have in 2023?
In 2023, our team at DMI focused on laying a robust foundation for sustainable growth. We celebrated securing our recompetes and capturing strategic new business, such as our recent CDC award, which further strengthens our commitment to public health and safety.
Our growth strategy is centered on assembling a diverse, talented team dedicated to excellence. This year we established a strategic corporate capture organization, crafted an enterprise solutions architect team, and initiated a competitive strategies division to hone our market intelligence and to focus on our strategic partnerships & alliances. All of this improves our competitiveness.
We also revolutionized our marketing and communications, enabling us to better engage with our clients in both public and commercial sectors. Technological investments were pivotal to our growth strategy — incorporating AI to enhance our win rates, increase our proposal submissions, and streamlining our business acquisition process through the development and implementation of an integrated CRM system (Thank you, Technomile!).
A key cultural shift was the introduction of a new growth incentive plan, designed to acknowledge and reward the collective effort behind our achievements. It’s not just about winning — it’s about fostering the behaviors that lead to success, and this approach is integral to nurturing a culture of growth.
What are your primary focus areas going forward, and why are those so important to the mission?
Looking ahead, we’re prioritizing strategic win strategies for major deals, ensuring that our teams are equipped with the necessary tools and insights to enhance our competitive edge. It’s about meticulous preparation and understanding the nuances of each opportunity. And, most importantly, gaining our customers’ trust.
We aim to increase proposal submissions without compromising quality. Leveraging our advancements in AI and data analytics, we are poised to enhance our bid volume and success rate, demonstrating our technological leadership, but also balancing that with good old fashioned customer engagement and insight.
The cornerstone of our strategy is delivery excellence. We understand that growth is not merely about new wins but about providing exceptional service that fosters long-term partnerships with our clients. It’s about trust and reliability, ensuring that when clients choose DMI, they’re assured of unparalleled dedication to their mission.
What is your best career advice for those who want to follow in your footsteps?
My journey in the GovCon space has been enriched by the collective brilliance and generosity of colleagues. My advice to those aspiring to similar paths is to cultivate deep, meaningful relationships. Be generous with your time and be receptive to the wisdom around you.
Seek to collaborate with the brightest minds and learn relentlessly. Your network is not just a professional asset; it’s a community from which to draw strength, inspiration and support.
Fun Fact: What is something about you that most people do not know?
While my professional life is an open book, many are surprised to learn about my family’s deep-rooted tradition of service. It’s a legacy that I carry with great pride. I believe the real heroes are those quiet warriors of service, past and present, whose dedication is the backbone of our community. It’s they who inspire me, and to whom any spotlight or award truly belongs.