With over three decades of experience in government contracting, procurement, and executive leadership, Rex Pugh is a results-driven professional known for his expertise in contract negotiation, financial strategy, and business growth within the defense industry. His distinguished career spans leadership roles at prominent defense contractors, where he has built and optimized procurement departments, streamlined contract administration processes, and fostered high-performing teams to drive organizational success.
As Vice President of Contracts & Procurement at Semper Valens Solutions, Inc., Rex plays a pivotal role in managing multimillion-dollar contracts, overseeing department budgets, and ensuring regulatory compliance. His leadership has been instrumental in expanding contract revenues, increasing efficiency, and implementing strategic initiatives to support company growth. His ability to navigate complex government regulations, including FAR and DFAR compliance, has positioned him as a trusted authority in defense contracting.
Under his direction at Trace Systems, the Contracts and Procurement team successfully scaled operations from $63 million in 2020 to over $80 million in 2021, with a targeted trajectory of $105 million in 2022. His strategic leadership was instrumental in restructuring procurement processes, optimizing contract negotiations, and implementing cost-saving initiatives that improved operational efficiency. By fostering cross-functional collaboration between finance, legal, and program management teams, he enhanced compliance oversight and streamlined workflows, ensuring adherence to FAR and DFAR regulations. Additionally, his ability to identify and capitalize on new business opportunities played a key role in securing high-value government contracts, positioning the company for sustained long-term growth in the defense sector.
Prior to his current role, Rex held executive positions at Trace Systems, ITT, BAE Systems, and Integrated Systems Analysts, where he demonstrated a consistent track record of success in contract administration, proposal development, and subcontractor management. Throughout his career, he has led contract negotiations, developed procurement policies, and played a critical role in securing new business opportunities. His hands-on approach to proposal development, cost analysis, and risk mitigation has earned him recognition as an industry leader.
Rex’s academic credentials further underscore his expertise, holding a Master of Science in Business Management with a concentration in Leadership from Marymount University, as well as multiple certifications in federal government contracting and mergers & acquisitions. A Six Sigma Green Belt, NCMA member, and former mentor in contract management leadership programs, he is dedicated to continuous improvement and professional development within the field.
His leadership philosophy is centered on mentorship, strategic vision, and operational excellence. Beyond his executive responsibilities, he has played an instrumental role in training and developing procurement professionals, ensuring compliance with government regulations, and enhancing the efficiency of contract administration. His contributions to the industry have been recognized through numerous accolades, including the Pinnacle Professional Member award from Continental Who’s Who (April 2022), the Honored Member recognition from Continental Who’s Who (September 2015), and a feature in “The Inner Circle” magazine (Fall 2022). These honors reflect his industry leadership, influence, and commitment to advancing the field of government contracting.
With a career defined by innovation, expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Rex Pugh remains a driving force in government contracting. His ability to build and lead high-performing teams, negotiate complex contracts, and optimize procurement processes makes him a valuable asset to any defense contractor seeking strategic growth and operational efficiency.
Character
Rex Pugh is a principled and results-driven executive whose dedication to excellence, ethical leadership, and unwavering commitment to operational integrity have defined his over three-decade career in government contracting and procurement.
Knowledge
With extensive expertise in contract negotiation, procurement management, financial strategy, and regulatory compliance, Rex Pugh possesses a deep understanding of defense industry operations, ensuring efficiency, growth, and adherence to government standards.
Strategic
A forward-thinking leader, Rex Pugh has successfully implemented procurement policies, optimized contract administration processes, and driven multimillion-dollar revenue growth by aligning business objectives with strategic operational initiatives.
Communication
An effective communicator and mentor, Rex Pugh excels in fostering collaboration between executive leadership, government stakeholders, and procurement teams to ensure seamless contract execution, compliance, and long-term business success.
