The finalists for WashingtonExec’s Chief Officer Awards were announced April 8, and we’ll be highlighting some of them until the event takes place live, in-person June 4.
Next is Zak Mahshie, general counsel and executive vice president of compliance at Excella, and a finalist in the General Counsel/Compliance Executive of the Year category. In this spotlight, he offers advice for those following a similar path, shares current priorities, reflects on personal passions and more.
What key achievements did you have in 2024/2025?
Over the past two years, Excella has achieved unprecedented growth as a premier technology solutions provider, focused on helping our clients achieve their missions. Our success is grounded in our ability to deliver when it matters most while staying true to our core purpose: creating meaningful impact for clients and exceptional careers for Excellians.
As Excella’s sole legal counsel, I have strategically positioned the company for sustainable growth and operational excellence through several transformative initiatives. For example, I guided the firm through multiple complex, high-impact transactions — including a business unit acquisition and securing a minority investment partnership. These investments have enhanced Excella’s capabilities with new expertise, resources, and valuable industry relationships, supporting growth in areas like AI and software modernization to drive long-term value.
What are your primary focus areas going forward, and why are those so important to the mission?
Looking ahead, my primary focus centers on helping Excella navigate a fundamentally altered federal contracting landscape. As our market continues to change, I’ve doubled down on initiatives that strengthen our ability to deliver meaningful results to clients while providing stability to Excellians during periods of uncertainty.
A cornerstone of this strategy involves continued investment in compliance excellence through CMMI and ISO certifications. These credentials help expand Excella’s access to more federal projects and provide infrastructure for scaling the business. Another key initiative is to maintain close oversight of emerging Executive Orders and agency directives to help the firm understand shifting government priorities. This approach will position Excella to respond swiftly to our clients’ evolving needs.
What is your best career advice for those who want to follow in your footsteps?
The role of a solo General Counsel is not straightforward. You often need to wear many hats and become a jack-of-all-trades. My best advice is to be comfortable with being uncomfortable. You must always be ready to learn new skills; despite not knowing how often you will use them. But most importantly, you need to understand the business, collaborate with your colleagues, and make sure your work is making an impact on the company’s ability to achieve its strategy.
Fun Fact: What is something about you that most people do not?
I really enjoy backpacking the Appalachian Trail, one weekend at a time. I should be done in about 20 years, which is perfect – this hobby is definitely about the journey.