Mike Akhbari is a seasoned executive with over 20 years of experience in defense operations, government contracting, and business development, specializing in building and leading large-scale organizations within the federal sector. Known for his strategic approach and commitment to operational excellence, Mike’s expertise spans across contract negotiation, financial management, program execution, and organizational growth. His career has been dedicated to delivering complex acquisition and logistics solutions, consistently achieving outstanding results in highly competitive markets.
Currently, Mike serves as the President of ITA Operational Support, a division of ITA International, where he oversees a portfolio of data analytics, engineering, software development, cyber and physical security projects. Responsible for business development, program oversight, and strategic planning, Mike has full profit and loss accountability for ITA’s Operational Support business unit. His leadership focuses on deepening ITA’s market presence, fostering client relationships, and driving sustainable growth in the fields of defense innovation, inter-agency collaboration, and digital engineering.
Previously, Mike held the role of Vice President of Operations at Frontier Technology, where he led strategic development and operations for multiple business units. His role involved managing P&L, driving new business growth, and supporting various Department of Defense (DoD) projects. Mike’s ability to guide teams, enhance program performance, and cultivate government relationships contributed to the company’s expansion in the federal sector while he oversaw >$80M in annual portfolio.
Mike’s background includes a long tenure with NCI, Inc. (now Empower AI), where he served in multiple leadership roles, including Vice President of Operations and Program Manager for major US Army programs. His management of NCI’s $210M PEO Soldier program and his success in transitioning two service contracts were instrumental in the company’s revenue growth. Mike’s innovative proposal and pricing strategies helped secure over $215M in new contracts in a competitive market, underscoring his skill in government contracting.
In addition to his executive roles, Mike has a deep technical foundation, having held critical operational and program management positions early in his career. His experience ranges from overseeing multi-million-dollar DoD programs to leading teams of over 400 personnel across various locations, both domestically and internationally. Mike’s expertise in DOD 5000.2, Lean Six Sigma, and business process reengineering has equipped him with the tools to drive continuous improvement and process efficiency across organizations.
Mike’s academic credentials include a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Denison University, with a minor in Political Science and a concentration in Organizational Studies. He furthered his leadership education at the prestigious Wharton School’s Executive Development Program, where he refined his skills in strategic decision-making, team leadership, and executive management.
Committed to lifelong learning and professional development, Mike holds multiple certifications, including Project Management Professional (PMP) and DAWIA Level I qualifications in areas such as Program Management, Contracting, and Logistics. He also holds a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, underscoring his focus on operational performance and quality improvement.
Outside of work, Mike is an active member of several industry associations, including the Project Management Institute, the Association of the US Army, and the Old Crows Association. His professional network is a testament to his dedication to the defense sector and his commitment to staying at the forefront of industry developments.
With a career marked by integrity, determination, and a results-oriented mindset, Mike Akhbari continues to make a significant impact within the defense and federal sectors. His approach to leadership is grounded in building relationships, fostering trust, and developing strategies that deliver measurable results for clients and stakeholders alike.
Character:
Mike Akhbari exemplifies integrity and commitment to excellence, consistently earning trust and respect from colleagues and clients alike. His steadfast approach to ethical leadership fosters a reliable, supportive environment within his teams.
Knowledge:
With a profound understanding of defense operations, government contracting, and financial management, Mike brings a wealth of specialized expertise. His technical knowledge and strategic insights enable him to deliver high-impact solutions in complex and competitive sectors.
Strategic:
Mike has a proven ability to develop and execute sustainable growth strategies that align with organizational goals. His foresight and adaptability position his organizations for success, expanding their market presence and client relationships effectively.
Communication:
Known for his transparent and collaborative style, Mike excels in building strong relationships and facilitating open, effective communication. His approachable leadership ensures clarity across all organizational levels, fostering cohesion and shared purpose.
