Greg Bitel’s focus on strengthening Two Six Technologies’ research foundation and expanding its transition partnerships isn’t only a short-term business strategy. It stems from a life philosophy he learned from a mentor who emphasized recruiting bright people — then refusing to micromanage them.
Bitel, vice president of business development at Two Six Technologies, is a finalist for WashingtonExec’s Chief Officer Awards in the Private & Public Company CGO or BD Executive of the Year (annual revenue greater than $100 million and less than $500 million) category. The event takes place live June 2.
In this spotlight, he discusses how the company’s “citizen soldiers” business development engine catalyzes consistent growth, how expansions into research and partnership are key to strong mission solutions, and why he believes in leading with guidance rather than instruction.
What key achievements did you have in 2025/2026?
Two Six Tech is a “small-big” company, which can be a dangerous position to be in. I’ve taken on the responsibility of making us appear bigger than we are, going toe to toe with much larger entities.
We do more with less and ask each and every person in the firm to be part of the business development engine as our “citizen soldiers.” With this approach, we have been able to grow well above double digits every year of our existence and continue to exceed expectations.
What are your primary focus areas going forward, and why are those so important to the mission?
Going forward, my primary focus areas are strengthening our research foundation and expanding our transition partnerships. The foundation of Two Six Tech is our research team, developing products, services and processes that can successfully transition to viable solutions for our mission partners, ultimately getting capabilities to the warfighter with the long sought-after trichotomy of “faster, better, cheaper.”
Equally important is developing strong relationships with transition partners, which allows a company of our size to pick our spots. A deep portfolio of cutting-edge research, coupled with these relationships, positions Two Six to deliver meaningful impact with fewer resources.
What is your best career advice for those who want to follow in your footsteps?
My best career advice came from an influential mentor early in my career, Al Picarelli, who told me, “Surround yourself with bright people and get the hell out of the way.” That mindset has stayed with me, driving success through guidance rather than instruction.
The associates at Two Six bring extraordinary energy, a strong foundation of experience, and the awareness to recognize opportunity. Creating pathways for growth while allowing junior staff to own engagements and celebrate personal success is critical to building strong teams. There are only two reasons we fail: effort or ability. Bring the effort, and as leadership, we will nurture the ability.
What is something about you that most people do not know?
In between career stops, I partnered with a friend and former IT sales executive to launch an environmentally conscious dog grooming business in Tampa, Florida. Nearly 20 years later, it is still going strong. If you ever find yourself in South Tampa, stop by Green Dog Wash.
