Movin’ On Up…

Whenever possible, our preference at Odyssey is to promote from within. This past August, we had the distinct pleasure of doing just that for three rising stars within the organization, Michael Laurie, Mitch Kasberg, and James Townsend. In this edition’s Movin’ On Up segment, we feature these gentlemen and learn a little about what makes them tick.

Michael Laurie

Executive Director, Security

What made you decide that a leadership role at Odyssey was right for you?
Taking on a leadership role at Odyssey came about by chance. A former colleague reached out and suggested I investigate the newly created Director of Security position. During my first interview with Kate Copley, we connected right away—she was warm, welcoming, and gave me an immediate sense that Odyssey’s culture would be a good fit. In my second interview with Kevin Connolly, he laid out both the challenges facing the department and his vision for where Odyssey was headed. Hearing how he planned to grow the company over the next few years was inspiring, and I felt motivated by the opportunity to take on that challenge.

Who was your most inspiring manager? What attributes did they display that made you want to be like them?
The most inspiring leader I’ve ever worked with was Colonel Paul Burns from the Australian SAS. Paul embodied the qualities of selflessness, intelligence, drive, loyalty, and motivation. He could lead with humility while still pushing people to achieve more than they thought possible, and that balance is something I strive to emulate.

What is the most inspiring part of your job as a manager at Odyssey?
The most inspiring part of my role is working with people who directly contribute to the defense of our nation. At Odyssey, our team plays a role in something far greater than ourselves and being able to support and lead individuals who are part of that mission is both humbling and motivating.

What is your definition of an inspiring leader? 
An inspiring leader is someone with a clear vision who can align and motivate their team toward achieving it. They foster an environment where people feel supported, challenged, and encouraged to grow—both personally and professionally.

What advice would you give an employee aspiring to be a manager?
Odyssey is a place where hard work and growth are recognized. My advice is to be your own advocate—communicate your career aspirations to your manager, seek regular feedback, and be open to guidance. Focus on developing yourself and look for ways to take initiative. Leadership isn’t something that just happens—it’s built through consistent effort, accountability, and the willingness to learn.

Mitch Kasberg

Corporate Controller

What made you decide that a leadership role at Odyssey was right for you?
I’ve been at Odyssey for 10 years and I’ve seen the impact that a lot of great leaders have had on the organization.

What leadership roles did you have prior to joining Odyssey?
I’ve been excited and grateful to be a part of Odyssey’s growth and success, having several roles in the organization from Program Control Analyst to Pricing Analyst, Pricing Manager, FP&A Manager, and now Corporate Controller.

Who was your most inspiring manager, and what attributes did they display that made you want to be like them?
I have been very lucky to find myself in the position to learn from and be mentored by several different leaders here at Odyssey. They have always displayed valuable attributes that I’ve looked to instill in myself as well. Some key attributes include the ability to think critically and solve tactical challenges, ability to plan strategically to overcome future obstacles, and demonstrate commitment, ambition, and respect in everything they do.

• Started at Odyssey as a PCA, working for Matt Kasberg
• Served under Tom Portlock as a Pricing Analyst and Pricing Manager
• Served under Kevin Connolly as the FP&A Manager

What is the most inspiring part of your job as a manager at Odyssey?
The most inspiring part of my job as a leader is having the opportunity to see, inspire, and participate in the growth of individuals within the organization, shaping processes that can have positive impacts on our work and our customers, and be a part of an organization that has a strong focus on our identity and culture as we navigate into an exciting future.

What is your definition of an inspiring leader?
For me, an inspiring leader has a foundational understanding of what it means to be both a manager and a leader. I feel that manager’s role is to ensure the operational “how” and “what” of a task are handled efficiently and correctly, providing stability and structure. In contrast, a leader inspires a team with the “why,” earning influence through trust and empowering others to strive for continuous improvement and find their own path. Ultimately, while a manager provides the necessary foundation for the present, a leader’s vision guides the team towards a compelling future.

What advice would you give an employee aspiring to be a manager?
My advice to an aspiring manager at Odyssey would be to leverage the knowledge and experience of those you work with while pursuing personal and professional growth. There are so many great leaders in all areas within Odyssey, and in my experience there is no shortage of willingness to help you reach your goals.

James Townsend

Executive Director, CCN2

What made you decide that a leadership role at Odyssey was right for you?
When I first came to Odyssey, I was wrapping up my 21-year Air Force career and looking to get into industry to continue supporting the government. As I interviewed with Odyssey for the NC3 Operations Director role, I got to see the culture that focuses on commitment, ambition, and respect. Those values are like the values I was focused on while in the service. Leading in this company was a natural byproduct of what I had developed over my career and I’m excited to advance my career as Odyssey’s Executive Director for the CCN2 Group.

What leadership roles did you have prior to joining Odyssey?
Prior to joining Odyssey, I held leadership roles in the Air Force as a Branch Chief, a Director of Operations, a Program Integrator for a Division, and I finished my career as a Deputy Division Chief.

Who was your most inspiring manager, and what attributes did they display that made you want to be like them?
I’ve had quite a few that have helped me get to where I am today. Each of them helped hone taking care of people and supporting the mission, or in this case the customer. Mr. Murphy was the most inspiring leader I have worked for. We worked long hours in the Pentagon dealing with program integration for critical Air Force programs and Mark expected the most from us. He challenged us to know our programs and know our portfolio. His big emphasis was on having the data to back up the necessary decisions. What stood out to me the most was he would make time to hear out what was going on with this people and ensured that we were all doing ok. He kept things light in the office, in a place where every decision mattered and effected a lot of Air Force funding. The philosophy to take care of people while making sure your people know their responsibilities is the cornerstone of how I like to operate as a leader of people.

What is the most inspiring part of your job as a manager at Odyssey?
The most inspiring part of my job has been being able to give back to the community and fellow service members. When we can bring on another Veteran and help them through transition in a similar manner that Odyssey helped me only a year ago, that is where I see the government keeping its top talent while welcoming recent Retirees into their second career.

What is your definition of an inspiring leader?
To me, an inspiring leader is one that you would be willing to charge into any task or problem with because they give you tools to be successful and the vision of what is being sought after. Having a leader that shows you what they need to do and why they need to do it but gives you the space to figure out how to do it is a very welcoming philosophy that helps future leaders grow and helps people be successful.

What advice would you give an employee aspiring to be a manager?
For future leaders / managers, understand and embrace the idea that you are always developing your craft. Be good at what you do and where you are operating. When you grow where you are planted, good leaders take notice and want to provide you more opportunities to grow. So, keep reading up on how to build your leadership style/work ethic. Let your supervisor know you are seeking opportunities and be willing to grow outside your comfort zone. Even the smallest extra task outside of a normal role can be the distinguishing factor that shows others you should be elevated to another level. I’m excited to have an expanded role in Odyssey and look forward to how I can help grow other leaders within our company.