The finalists for WashingtonExec’s 2023 Pinnacle Awards were announced Sept. 25, and we’ll be highlighting some of them until the event takes place live, in-person Nov. 16.
Next is Dawn Tenia, vice president of contracts at DMI, and finalist in the Contracts Executive of the Year, Private & Public Companies, category. Here, she shares proud organziational moments and career advice.
What are you most proud of having been a part of in your current organization?
I’m extremely proud of my efforts to seamlessly steer DMI through a major period of expansion and foster a sense of community throughout the process.
Since 2020, the company has acquired four new organizations: Aurotech, Ambit Group LLC, Team GreenZone JV, and GreenZone Solutions. These strategic acquisitions have enabled DMI to significantly expand our technical capabilities and customer base.
My team and I were instrumental in creating an overall sense of integration throughout the acquisition process and effectively assimilating the portfolios of all four acquired companies. We were closely involved in the business and personal aspects of integration.
In addition to welcoming our new team members and guiding them through the onboarding phase, I interfaced and forged relationships with many of our new clients. By effectively establishing strong partnerships and minimizing disruptions, we provided continuous support to the company’s government clients.
As a result of these efforts, DMI benefited internally and externally from increased collaboration, new perspectives, and additional resources. The successful acquisitions illuminated new avenues for growth, which empowered DMI to deliver additional value to our government customers driven by cutting-edge innovation.
What’s your best career advice for those who want to follow in your footsteps?
I encourage all young professionals to remain open-minded when beginning their careers. My own path was a bit unconventional. I’ve always had a passion for reading and writing, so I studied English in college. One of my friend’s parents, who worked in contracts, noticed my aptitude for language and attention to detail and recommended that I pursue a career in contracts administration prior to it being a well-known or established area of expertise. Now, with 16 years of experience in this profession, I honestly feel like I’ve grown and developed both with and within it.
I have remained dedicated and passionate about this field and continued to thrive as a contracts professional because it is interconnected with my love for the English language. As our professional lives take up a significant portion of our time, it’s incredibly important that you enjoy what you do. I’d urge all young professionals not to give up on their passions when considering their career choices. Allow yourself to expand on your interests and explore avenues that capitalize on them.
Additionally, I advise young professionals to be bold and take on challenges with enthusiasm. There will always be a degree of uncertainty when taking on a new position or responsibility, but these are the opportunities that lead to growth.
At DMI, I’ve found a company where I can continually grow and push myself to improve. Seek out an organization that will empower you to evolve both professionally and personally.
