Margarita Howard, the visionary founder and CEO of HX5, has turned her Florida-based company into a leading player in the competitive world of government contracting. With over 1,000 employees, operating across 34 states and 90 government locations, her journey is a testament to grit, innovation, and a proactive approach to business.
From Humble Beginnings to Industry Leader
HX5’s journey began with Howard’s meticulous planning and strategic foresight. Drawing on her military background and extensive industry experience, she built a solid foundation for the company, investing heavily upfront in specialized accounting systems designed to meet stringent government auditing standards. This early investment positioned HX5 to excel in a sector known for its complexity and regulatory demands.
Howard emphasized building a company that thrives on competition rather than relying on sole-source contracts. Under her leadership, HX5 expanded beyond the Small Business Administration’s 8(a) program, establishing a competitive edge that continues to drive its long-term success.
Building Relationships and Loyalty
Central to HX5’s success is Howard’s commitment to forging strong relationships. From government agencies to financial partners, her focus has been on cultivating trust and loyalty. Early in the company’s history, she faced numerous rejections while seeking financial backing. However, the one bank that believed in her vision remains a trusted partner to this day.
“We’ve stayed loyal to those who supported us,” Howard shares. This loyalty extends to HX5’s accounting firms, insurers, and other key partners, reflecting a business ethos rooted in trust and collaboration.
Setting Standards in Compliance and Leadership Diversity
Howard’s meticulous approach to compliance has become a hallmark of HX5’s operations. “Government contracting is laden with rules, regulations, and compliance requirements,” she explains. Her emphasis on maintaining impeccable records has been crucial in navigating the challenges of government audits and reporting.
In addition to compliance, Howard has prioritized diversity within HX5’s leadership. Women hold the majority of senior positions, including two out of three vice president roles. Howard, herself a trailblazer in a male-dominated industry, has worked tirelessly to break barriers and pave the way for others.
“While progress has been made, some biases still remain,” she notes. Yet, the strides women are making in government contracting and related fields are undeniable. Her leadership team’s inclusive structure serves as a powerful example of the change she seeks to inspire in the industry.
Early Adoption of Artificial Intelligence
Innovation has always been a driving force for HX5. Recognizing the transformative potential of artificial intelligence, Howard led the company in launching an AI initiative to enhance operational efficiency and client support. The program includes the development of internal AI tools that have significantly improved HX5’s processes.
“We try to stay ahead of changing technologies,” Howard states. HX5’s proactive adoption of AI exemplifies its commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements in support of defense and space missions.
A Proactive and People-Centric Approach
Howard’s leadership philosophy centers on her people. “At the end of the day, it’s our great employees and our management team who make us successful,” she says. Many members of her team have been with HX5 for over a decade, reflecting a culture of loyalty and excellence.
Howard’s methodical selection of personnel, coupled with her team’s dedication, has been instrumental in HX5’s continued growth. Her emphasis on strategic hiring and retention ensures that the company remains well-equipped to tackle the evolving challenges of government contracting.
Margarita Howard’s Impact
Margarita Howard’s journey is one of resilience, vision, and proactive leadership. From securing early financial backing to fostering diversity and embracing innovation, she has built HX5 into a model of success in the government contracting industry. Her story serves as an inspiration to entrepreneurs and leaders across all sectors, showcasing the impact of determination and strategic foresight.
As HX5 continues to thrive under her leadership, the company’s approach offers a blueprint for others navigating the complexities of government contracting. Through her efforts, Margarita Howard is not only shaping the future of HX5 but also redefining what’s possible in the industry.