News, Insights, and Announcements

Recognition highlights MacIntyre's two decades of intelligence and national security leadership now driving global geopolitical risk strategy in the private sector

Tysons Corner, Virginia – April 13, 2026 – growth[period], a strategic advisory firm serving public- and private-sector clients at moments of growth, complexity, and transformation,] is proud to announce that Mirriam-Grace MacIntyre, Senior Partner for Global Geopolitical Risk Management, has been recognized by The Leaders Globe magazine in its annual "Women Excellence – The Visionary Leaders 2026" listing. The distinction honors pioneering women who combine innovation with leadership excellence to create opportunity, empower others, and shape the future of business and society.

MacIntyre brings more than 20 years of experience in intelligence, counterintelligence, and global security to her work with growth[period], where she advises organizations on business growth, market expansion, and geopolitical risk strategy. Prior to joining the firm, she served as Executive Director of the National Counterintelligence and Security Center, overseeing operations to protect national interests from foreign intelligence threats. She also served on the National Security Council as Director for Counterintelligence, where she led policy development and advised senior decision-makers on complex security challenges.

At growth[period], MacIntyre works with organizations at critical inflection points, helping leadership teams understand how geopolitical dynamics affect their ability to access markets, move goods, and generate value. Her approach moves companies beyond reactive risk management and toward strategic foresight as a competitive capability.

"Geopolitical risk should become a strategic capability that positions organizations to seize opportunity," said MacIntyre.

Among her current initiatives is the development of an AI-powered geopolitical risk dashboard in partnership with Aureclar. The platform analyzes geopolitical indicators and equips executives and boards with actionable intelligence to improve governance and decision-making. MacIntyre has been clear that the technology is designed to augment – not replace – human judgment, serving as a force multiplier for leaders navigating complex global environments.

MacIntyre's long-term vision is to make sophisticated geopolitical risk intelligence accessible not only to large multinationals, but also to mid-sized companies and startups, recognizing that every organization operates within a geopolitical landscape that can affect supply chains, talent, regulation, and reputation.

The Leaders Globe feature notes that her leadership philosophy is rooted in resilience built over time, and shaped by pivotal experiences, influential mentors, and the daily decisions that define character and judgment.

The full feature on Mirriam-Grace MacIntyre is available in The Leaders Globe Visionary Women 2026 edition at https://theleadersglobe.com/magazine/cover-story/mirriam-grace-macintyre-strategic-foresight-in-an-age-of-global-uncertainty/.

About growth[period]

For more than 19 years, growth[period]’s management consulting, business development, geopolitical risk, strategy and transaction advisory services have focused on serving the principal challenges faced by companies in highly regulated industries. We are nationally recognized as a leading provider to growing and established firms seeking assistance to complete sophisticated corporate and technology transactions; manage entry into the federal government contracting industry; assist with navigating the federal marketplace; represent them in partnering agreements; and/or advise them on diligence matters. With deep roots globally, growth[period] has more than 90 experts and offices in multiple markets across the United States, Canada, Latin America, Asia and Europe. For more information, please visit www.growthprd.com.

CONTACT Talia Frey 703 556 0111 info@growthprd.com

Tysons Corner, Virginia – April 7, 2026 – growth[period] is proud to announce it has been named one of the Washington Business Journal's 2026 Best Places to Work, marking the 10th time the firm has earned this prestigious recognition. The annual program highlights the top 100 organizations across the Greater Washington region where employees report exceptional levels of trust, collaboration, and workplace satisfaction.

Selection is based on confidential employee surveys that measure engagement, culture, and workplace satisfaction across key factors including management effectiveness, compensation and benefits, and opportunities for professional growth. This year, growth[period] achieved a perfect score: 100% of employees reported being “Highly Engaged,” rating the firm as “highly favorable; advocates for the organization; intending to stay; and demonstrating high discretionary effort.” Additionally, 100% of growth[period] employees reported feeling valued by the organization. When asked to choose a single word to describe their work environment, employees responded: "Supportive.”

"Being recognized for the 10th time is a testament to the people who make growth[period] what it is," said Courtney B. Spaeth, CEO of growth[period]. "These results don't come from any single initiative; they reflect a culture our team builds together every day. We are incredibly proud that every single employee feels engaged and valued, and we remain deeply committed to maintaining the supportive environment that makes this possible."

The Washington Business Journal's Best Places to Work program is one of the region's most anticipated and respected workplace recognition programs, celebrating companies throughout Greater Washington, D.C. that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to employee satisfaction, engagement, and culture. Honorees are recognized for recruiting and retaining top talent and for cultivating workplace cultures that serve as a genuine competitive advantage.

growth[period] will be celebrated alongside fellow honorees at the Washington Business Journal's Best Places to Work May 7^th award event.

 

About growth[period]

For more than 19 years, growth[period]’s management consulting, business development, geopolitical risk, strategy and transaction advisory services have focused on serving the principal challenges faced by companies in highly regulated industries. We are nationally recognized as a leading provider to growing and established firms seeking assistance to complete sophisticated corporate and technology transactions; manage entry into the federal government contracting industry; assist with navigating the federal marketplace; represent them in partnering agreements; and/or advise them on diligence matters. With deep roots globally, growth[period] has more than 90 experts and offices in multiple markets across the United States, Canada, Latin America, Asia and Europe. For more information, please visit www.growthprd.com.

CONTACT Talia Frey 703 556 0111 info@growthprd.com

Tysons Corner, Virginia – April 6, 2026 – growth[period], a strategic advisory firm serving public- and private-sector clients at moments of growth, complexity, and transformation, today announced that Marty Brennan has joined the firm as Chief Operating Officer.

In this role, Mr. Brennan will drive operational excellence across the firm with a focus on translating strategy into execution, strengthening client relationships, and scaling the firm's ability to deliver as growth[period] builds on its momentum. His ability to balance high-level strategic oversight with hands-on operational leadership – combined with his deep industry knowledge – makes him a natural fit for this key role with growth[period]. Both clients and colleagues will benefit from his experience-based, actionable, and business-focused counsel at every stage of an engagement.

“Bringing Marty Brennan on as Chief Operating Officer reflects our exciting growth trajectory. Marty is a proven operator with the rare ability to translate strategy into execution at scale—exactly what is required as we continue to expand,” said Courtney B. Spaeth, CEO of growth[period]. “His leadership, discipline, and deep understanding of complex, mission-driven environments will strengthen our ability to deliver for clients and accelerate the execution of our strategy. We are thrilled to welcome him to the firm.”

Mr. Brennan brings more than 20 years advising public- and private-sector organizations on business, operational, and technology strategy. Known for his hands-on approach and operational rigor, he has built a strong reputation among industry executives and private equity firms for driving outcomes across transactions of all sizes — from large-scale combinations to smaller bolt-on deals — while keeping risk firmly in view and ensuring organizations emerge stronger on the other side.

Most recently, Mr. Brennan served as Managing Director of Transaction Advisory Services at Deep Water Point & Associates. Prior to that, he founded and led the Merger Integration practice at Celerity and served as market lead for North Highland's Washington, DC, office. He has also held senior leadership roles at Washington Consulting, Alion Science & Technology, KPMG Consulting/BearingPoint, Arthur Andersen Business Consulting, and Dealy Strategy Group.

Mr. Brennan holds a BA in Mathematics from Yale University and an MBA from the Georgetown University McDonough School of Business.

 

About growth[period]

For more than 19 years, growth[period]’s management consulting, business development, geopolitical risk, strategy and transaction advisory services have focused on serving the principal challenges faced by companies in highly regulated industries. We are nationally recognized as a leading provider to growing and established firms seeking assistance to complete sophisticated corporate and technology transactions; manage entry into the federal government contracting industry; assist with navigating the federal marketplace; represent them in partnering agreements; and/or advise them on diligence matters. With deep roots globally, growth[period] has more than 90 experts and offices in multiple markets across the United States, Canada, Latin America, Asia and Europe. For more information, please visit www.growthprd.com.

CONTACT Talia Frey 703 556 0111 info@growthprd.com

Tysons Corner, Virginia – April 2, 2026 – growth[period], a strategic advisory firm serving public- and private-sector clients at moments of growth, complexity, and transformation, announce that Lieutenant General Omar Jones, US Army (Retired) has joined the firm as a Strategic Client Advisor.

General Jones brings more than 30 years of senior military leadership and Department of Defense experience to growth[period]. In his role as Strategic Client Advisor, he will support clients navigating the defense and federal markets, leveraging his expertise in talent management, leadership development, and organizational performance.

General Jones most recently served as Commanding General of the U.S. Army Installation Command, where he led a global organization overseeing more than 100 installations, 60,000 personnel, and a $14 billion budget in support of Army readiness and quality of life for soldiers and their families. He brings experience building coalitions across government and private sectors at the local, state, and federal levels.

General Jones also led the Department of Defense’s Joint Task Force – National Capital Region during the COVID-19 response and 2021 Presidential Inauguration, and previously served as the U.S. Army’s Chief of Public Affairs. As a career infantry officer, he has operational experience across the United States and internationally. He holds degrees from Harvard University, the National Defense University, and the United States Military Academy at West Point.

About growth[period]

For more than 19 years, growth[period]’s management consulting, business development, geopolitical risk, strategy and transaction advisory services have focused on serving the principal challenges faced by companies in highly regulated industries. We are nationally recognized as a leading provider to growing and established firms seeking assistance to complete sophisticated corporate and technology transactions; manage entry into the federal government contracting industry; assist with navigating the federal marketplace; represent them in partnering agreements; and/or advise them on diligence matters. With deep roots globally, growth[period] has more than 90 experts and offices in multiple markets across the United States, Canada, Latin America, Asia and Europe. For more information, please visit www.growthprd.com.

CONTACT Talia Frey 703 556 0111 info@growthprd.com

March 3, 2026 By Mirriam-Grace MacIntyre, Senior Partner, Global Geopolitical Risk Management The Situation: The United States and Israel on February 28 launched waves of attacks on Iran, killing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and senior leaders of the Iranian regime. Iran responded swiftly, launching missile and drone strikes against U.S. bases in several Gulf countries, striking civilian infrastructure and oil refineries, and shuttering flights through some of the world’s busiest airports. Iranian-backed armed groups throughout the region also began to react, most notably with Hezbollah in Lebanon launching rockets into Israel. No quick end is in sight. The President and Israeli government encouraged Iranians to take over their government, but thus far, after 2,000 U.S. and Israeli strikes, the Iranian regime appears to maintain control of the government. The President acknowledged on Monday that military operations were projected to continue for 4-5 weeks, but the U.S. had the ability to continue operations much longer. He later announced the deployment of additional troops and fighter jets to the region. Immediate Effects:

• With the Strait of Hormuz effectively closed to maritime traffic, approximately 10% of global maritime traffic and 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas is blocked from leaving the region. The effects are already being felt in energy markets. Qatar announced it would halt liquefied natural gas shipments after an attack on QatarEnergy, and the price of brent crude rose nearly 10% following attacks on three oil tankers over the weekend. Oil and energy costs will continue to rise, impacting consumers, affecting airline and freight costs, and introducing pricing volatility on longer-term contracts. Some US LNG companies are seeking to fill the gap and Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the Administration would begin rolling out a plan to address concerns about rising oil prices.
• Multiple insurance companies issued war-risk cancellations on maritime insurance effective March 5 while terms and premiums can be reissued, resulting in further delays to delivery timelines and threatening failures to meet terms of service-level agreements. As the conflict drags on, we can expect to see more inventory consumed and more invocations of force majeure claims to insurance companies.
• Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi airports were forced to shutter in recent days, resulting in over 4,000 canceled flights that stranded passengers and flight crews, disrupted air freight across pharmaceutical and electronics industries, and required airlines to take longer, costlier flight routes.
• Companies operating in the region have encouraged their staff to work remotely; however, if tensions continue, ensuring workforce safety will become increasingly important.
• Amazon reported outages after two data centers in the United Arab Emirates and a facility in Bahrain were struck by Iranian drones, causing data and service outages in the affected regions.

What Companies Should Do Now:

• Test Company Scenarios: Companies should evaluate business strategies, supply chains, dependencies, and financial models across a range of potential scenarios, ranging from a short and limited regional crisis to a prolonged, cross-regional conflict.
• Map supply chain exposure: Companies should map their Tier 1 and 2 suppliers transiting through the Straits of Hormuz or through logistics hubs in the Middle East. Executives should prioritize rebooking critical shipments, shift logistics transport through secondary pre-conflict, and adjust delivery timelines.
• Review Insurance Coverage: Legal departments should review terms of agreement, war-risk cancellation causes, force majeure triggers and required notices, ensuring relevant documentation is prepared.
• Establish Crisis Inventory Planning and Policies: Companies should plan for delays in deliveries of critical components and implement crisis plans, which should include pre-positioning spare components at operational locations as well as tracking and rationing use, as necessary.
• Plan for Rising Energy Costs: Companies should evaluate their financial posture in the face of rising energy costs. This should include ensuring pricing tracks against real benchmarks, activating surcharges early, or negotiating new pricing caps or indexed formulas.
• Bolster Physical and Cyber Security Programs: Heightened tensions increase the physical and cyber risks to companies. The Director of National Intelligence’s 2025 Annual Threat Assessment noted that Iran’s growing expertise and willingness to conduct cyber operations make it a major threat to the security of U.S. and allied partner networks and data. Companies should anticipate and implement heightened physical and cybersecurity plans for facilities and networks and should monitor for disinformation aimed at causing reputational damage to a company.
• Implement Security Plans for Affected Staff: As the conflict widens, companies should ensure workforce communication plans are updated, safety guidance is issued, and medical evacuation plans are in order.

      Mirriam-Grace MacIntyre is the Senior Partner for Global Geopolitical Risk Management at growth[period], where she advises clients on business market expansion and global risk management strategies. Ms. MacIntyre is a distinguished national security leader with over two decades of experience in intelligence, counterintelligence, and global security operations. She previously served as Executive Director of the National Counterintelligence and Security Center, where she led the U.S. government's top counterintelligence and security programs, and also served as the Director for Counterintelligence at the White House National Security Council.  

Tysons Corner, Virginia – February 25, 2026 – growth[period], a strategic advisory firm serving public- and private-sector clients at moments of growth, complexity, and transformation, today announced that Howie Lind has joined the firm as a Strategic Client Advisor. Mr. Lind brings more than two decades of senior military, government, and corporate leadership experience to growth[period]. In his role as Strategic Client Advisor, he will support clients navigating the defense and federal markets, leveraging his deep understanding of Department of Defense, legislative processes, and high-level stakeholder engagement. “I am excited about the potential for Howie to help drive transformation for so many of our clients. Howie brings a wealth of experience and expertise and I am thrilled to have him join the team” said Darryle Conway, President of Global Defense at growth[period]. Mr. Lind served 20 years on active duty in the United States Navy as a Surface Warfare Officer aboard five surface combatants, retiring at the rank of Commander. Following his military career, Mr. Lind served as a Senior Director for Government Relations and Business Development at Fluor Corporation in Washington, DC, where he advised on complex federal initiatives and supported strategic growth efforts. He was also a Department of Defense appointee during the Bush Administration, supporting U.S. operations in Iraq and Afghanistan from 2003 to 2007, including serving as a Legislative Liaison for Iraq Reconstruction and contributing to infrastructure development efforts. In addition to his government and corporate leadership roles, Mr. Lind has served as President of the International Stability Operations Association and has been a corporate consultant to the Department of Defense. He is widely respected for his ability to guide complex legislative initiatives, build trusted relationships at the highest levels of government and industry, and consistently deliver results. He was also a candidate for the U.S. Senate and Congress in 2013–2014. Mr. Lind holds a Bachelor of Science in Statistics from Virginia Tech and a Master of Science in Information Systems from the Naval Postgraduate School. About growth[period] For more than 19 years, growth[period] is a leading international strategic business development and transaction advisory services firm. We specialize in delivering sustainable solutions that improve our clients' overall market performance. The firm is recognized globally as a leading provider to growing and established clients seeking assistance to complete sophisticated corporate and technology transactions; manage entry into the federal government contracting industry; navigate the federal marketplace; support partnering strategies; and advise on diligence matters. With deep global roots, growth[period] has more than 90 experts and offices across the United States, Canada, Latin America, Asia, and Europe. For more information, please visit www.growthprd.com.   CONTACT Talia Frey 703 556 0111 info@growthprd.com

Tysons Corner, Virginia – January 28, 2026 – growth[period], a strategic advisory firm serving public- and private-sector clients at moments of growth, complexity, and transformation, today announced that Kim Pack has joined the firm as a Senior Advisor - Strategy. Ms. Pack brings a distinguished record of leadership, strategic execution, and trusted advisory experience to growth[period]. In this role, she will help advance the firm’s mission of delivering high-impact advisory services while expanding growth[period]’s capabilities and partnerships across its core markets. “Ms. Packs leadership, judgment, and depth of experience make her an exceptional addition to our senior team,” said Courtney B. Spaeth, CEO of growth[period]. “As our clients navigate increasingly complex operating and risk environments, her expertise will strengthen our ability to deliver impactful solutions. We are thrilled to welcome her to the firm.” Ms. Pack is widely respected for her ability to operate at the intersection of strategy, execution, and stakeholder engagement. Throughout her career, she has advised senior leaders, built high-performing teams, and guided organizations through periods of growth and transition. Ms. Pack has more than 35 years of leadership experience across the federal and commercial markets, with a background spanning strategic planning, IT services, management consulting, and business development and capture. Most recently, she served as President of Federal at AIS, where she supported clients in navigating complex government markets. Previously, she was CEO of Wolf Den Associates, advising organizations ranging from $10 million to $20 billion in revenue. In this role, Ms. Pack guided leadership teams in driving operational excellence, accelerating growth, and positioning companies for long-term, sustainable success. About growth[period] For more than 19 years, growth[period] is a leading international strategic business development and transaction advisory services firm. We specialize in delivering sustainable solutions that improve our clients' overall market performance. The firm is recognized globally as a leading provider to growing and established clients seeking assistance to complete sophisticated corporate and technology transactions; manage entry into the federal government contracting industry; navigate the federal marketplace; support partnering strategies; and advise on diligence matters. With deep global roots, growth[period] has more than 90 experts and offices across the United States, Canada, Latin America, Asia, and Europe. For more information, please visit www.growthprd.com.   CONTACT Talia Frey 703 556 0111 info@growthprd.com

Tysons Corner, Virginia – November 12, 2025 – growth[period], a leading provider of business development and transaction advisory services worldwide, is proud to announce that Courtney B. Spaeth, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, has been awarded the Gold Stevie Award for Best Female Entrepreneur - Business Services for companies with 11 to 2,500 employees in the 22nd Annual Stevie Awards for Women in Business. The Stevie Awards for Women in Business honor the world’s top female executives, entrepreneurs, and organizations. As one of the most respected international business awards programs, the Stevie Awards celebrate exceptional achievements in leadership, innovation, and professional excellence across industries. This recognition follows Spaeth’s earlier nomination as a finalist and highlights her continued impact as a visionary leader in the business services sector. Under her guidance, growth[period] has become an internationally recognized firm that helps clients achieve measurable growth through business development, mergers and acquisitions, and strategic advisory support. “It is an incredible honor to be recognized among such an extraordinary group of women” said Spaeth. “This award is a reflection of the dedication and excellence that define the growth[period] team and of the countless women around the world who continue to expand opportunity, inspire innovation, and elevate standards of leadership in business.” Now in its 22nd year, the Stevie Awards for Women in Business received more than 12,000 nominations from women around the world, representing organizations of every size and industry. Spaeth’s recognition stands as a testament to the remarkable achievements of women entrepreneurs and leaders globally, celebrating the innovation, resilience, and impact they continue to bring to the business community.   About growth[period] For more than 18 years, growth[period] has provided strategic business development, management consulting, and transaction advisory services to help companies achieve smart, sustainable growth. The firm is nationally recognized for guiding clients through complex corporate and technology transactions, supporting market entry and expansion, and developing strategies that drive measurable results. With more than 50 experts and offices across the United States, Canada, Latin America, Asia, and Europe, growth[period] continues to help organizations around the world realize their full potential. For more information about growth[period] and its award-winning business development and advisory services, please visit www.growthprd.com. CONTACT Talia Frey 703.556.0111 info@growthprd.com  

Tysons Corner, Virginia – November 7, 2025 – growth[period], a leading provider of business development and transaction advisory services worldwide, is pleased to announce that Leontine “Tine” Thompson has joined the firm as Principal for the Public Sector, Public Safety, and Telecom practice. Based out of growth[period]’s Virginia office, she will support clients in elevating performance, optimizing outcomes, and driving mission success. Ms. Thompson has over 30 years of leadership experience in federal acquisition, program management, and data-driven performance strategy. During her government service, she led multi-billion-dollar Department of Defense (DoD) Wireless Mobility Programs, partnering with senior leaders and industry to modernize enterprise capabilities and deliver secure telecom services, achieving over $230 million in verified cost savings. A Harvard Business School-trained Change Manager with DAWIA Level III Certification in Contracting and Lean Six Sigma training, she has been recognized with the Navy Meritorious Civilian Service Award, the Gears of Government Award, and multiple OFPP Acquisition Excellence Awards for her strategic vision and commitment to transforming mission-critical programs. At growth[period], Ms. Thompson joins the firm’s Strategic Advisory Team, where she will deliver strategic consulting across defense acquisition, strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, telecom modernization, and organizational change. Her people-centered, results-driven approach continues to bridge innovation between the public and private sectors, helping clients modernize operations and advance mission success. About growth[period] For more than 18 years, growth[period]’s management consulting, business development, strategy, and transaction advisory services have focused on addressing the principal challenges faced by federal contractors and commercial businesses entering the federal marketplace. The firm is nationally recognized as a leading provider for clients seeking to complete sophisticated corporate and technology transactions, manage entry into government contracting, navigate the federal marketplace, form partnerships, or obtain diligence support. With deep roots globally, growth[period] has more than 50 experts and offices across the United States, Canada, Latin America, Asia, and Europe. For more information, please visit www.growthprd.com.   CONTACT: Talia Frey 703-556-0111 info@growthprd.com

  Tyson’s Corner, Virginia – September 23, 2025 –  growth[period] is honored to announce that its CEO, Courtney B. Spaeth, has been named a finalist in the 22nd Annual Stevie Awards for Women in Business. Mrs. Spaeth is a finalist in the prestigious category of Best Female Entrepreneur – Business Services – 11 to 2,500 Employees. The Stevie Awards for Women in Business honor women executives, entrepreneurs, employees, and the companies they run worldwide. As one of the most highly regarded international business awards programs, the Stevie Awards recognize outstanding professional achievements across industries and leadership roles. "We are thrilled that Courtney has been recognized as a finalist in this year’s Stevie Awards," said Josh Schiffman, Chairman of the Board of Directors at growth[period]. "Her strategic leadership, innovative mindset, and consistent commitment to excellence set the standard for our entire organization. This recognition is a testament to her impact and dedication to excellence in business development and advisory." The 22nd Annual Stevie Awards will celebrate the finalists and winners across a wide array of categories, highlighting women who have made remarkable contributions to business innovation, leadership, and growth. Winners will be announced at the gala event later this year. About growth[period] For more than 18 years, growth[period] has been a leader in management consulting, business development, and transaction advisory services, specializing in the federal marketplace. The firm assists growing and established companies with strategic guidance, technology transactions, market entry strategies, and partnering agreements. With offices in multiple regions worldwide, growth[period] continues to support clients across industries, offering actionable and experience-driven advice. For more information about growth[period], please visit www.growthperiod.com.  CONTACT: Talia Frey Phone: 703-556-0111 Email: info@growthprd.com