OrangeSlices' The Real Deal
In this episode of The Real Deal, Cy Alba sits down with Mark Drever, CEO of Xcelerate Solutions, for a candid conversation about building, scaling, and leading a successful GovCon business.
The discussion walks through Mark’s career journey, from his early days in government consulting to the launch of Xcelerate and its growth into a major player in the federal market. Mark discusses challenges he faced as an owner and CEO, how today’s federal environment is shaping GovCon growth, and what advice he would give to companies entering the sector now.
They also explore the importance of prior relationships and mission understanding before starting a business, how commercial companies can break into federal contracting, and what entrepreneurs should do to build meaningful connections with customers, mentors, and partners. The conversation also touches on leadership, sacrifice, private equity, M&A, building a business with an exit in mind, and what it really means to run your company like a business.
For founders, executives, and growth-minded GovCon leaders, this episode offers a practical perspective from someone who has been on both sides of the build-and-scale journey.
Click here to listen on Apple Podcasts.
