Q3 2025 ICF International Inc Earnings Call

Speaker #2: Welcome to the third quarter 2025 ICF Earnings Conference Call. My name is Lauren Cannon, and I will be your operator for today's call.

Lauren Cannon: Welcome to the third quarter 2025 ICF International earnings conference call. My name is Lauren Cannon, and I will be your operator for today's call. At this time, all participants are in a listen-only mode. After the speaker's presentation, there will be a question-and-answer session. To ask a question during the session, you will need to press star 11 on your telephone. You will then hear an automated message advising your hand is raised. To withdraw your question, please press star 11 again. Please be advised that today's conference is being recorded. I will now turn the call over to Lynn Morgen of Advisory Partners. Lynn, you may begin.

Speaker #2: At this time , all participants are in a listen only mode . After the speaker's presentation , there will be a question and answer session .

Speaker #2: To ask a question during the session, you will need to press *11 on your telephone. You will then hear an automated message advising that your hand is raised.

Speaker #2: To withdraw your question , please press star one one again . Please be advised that today's conference is being recorded . I will now turn the call over to Lynn Morgen of advisory Partners .

Speaker #2: Lynn , you may begin .

Speaker #3: Thank you . Operator . Good afternoon , everyone , and thank you for joining us to review our third quarter 2025 performance . With us today from ICF are John Watson , chair and CEO .

Lynn Morgen: Thank you, Operator. Good afternoon, everyone, and thank you for joining us to review ICF International's third quarter 2025 performance. With us today from ICF International are John Wasson, Chair and CEO, and Barry Broadus, CFO. Joining them is James Morgan, Chief Operating Officer. During this conference call, we will make forward-looking statements to assist you in understanding ICF International management's expectations about our future performance. These statements are subject to a number of risks that could cause actual events and results to differ materially, and I refer you to our October 30, 2025 press release and our SEC filings for discussions of those risks. In addition, our statements during this call are based on our reviews as of today. We anticipate that future development will cause our views to change. Please consider the information presented in that light.

Speaker #3: And Barry Broadus CFO . Joining them is James Morgan , chief operating officer . During this conference call , we will make forward looking statements to assist you in understanding .

Speaker #3: ICF management's expectations that are performance . These statements are subject to a number of risks that could cause actual events and results to differ materially .

Speaker #3: And I refer you to our October 30th , 2025 press release and our SEC filings for discussions of those risks . In addition , our statements during this call are based on our views as of today .

Speaker #3: We anticipate that future development will cause our views to change . Please consider the information presented in that light . We may , at some point elect to update the forward looking statements made today .

Lynn Morgen: We may at some point elect to update the statements made today, but specifically disclaim any obligation to do so. I will now turn over the call to ICF International CEO John Wasson to discuss third quarter 2025 performance. John?

Speaker #3: But specifically disclaim any obligation to do so . I will now turn over the call to ICF CEO John Watson to discuss third quarter 2025 performance .

Speaker #3: John .

Speaker #4: Thank you , Lynn , and thank you all for joining us to review our third quarter 2025 results . And discuss our business outlook .

John Wasson: Thank you, Lynn, and thank you all for joining us to review our third quarter 2025 results and discuss our business outlook. This was another quarter of resilient performance for ICF International, demonstrating the importance of our diversified business model, our agility in managing costs within a dynamic business environment, and the strength of our business development activities. Key takeaways from our third quarter results are, first, the continuing shift in our business mix, with revenues from commercial clients, state and local, and international government clients increasing by 13.8% and accounting for 57% of the quarter's revenues, up from 46% at the same time last year. Second, the continued robust performance in commercial energy where revenues increased 24%, reflecting the sustained strong demand for ICF International's advisory and implementation services.

Speaker #4: This was another quarter of resilient performance for ICF, demonstrating the importance of our diversified business model. Our agility in managing costs within the dynamic business environment and the strength of our business development activities.

Speaker #4: Key takeaways from our third quarter results are . First , the continuing shift in our business mix with revenues from commercial clients , state and local and international government clients increasing by 13.8% and accounting for 57% of the quarter's revenues , up from 46% at the same time last year .

Speaker #4: Second , the continued robust performance in commercial energy revenues increased 24% , reflecting the sustained strong demand for ICF advisory and implementation services .

Speaker #4: Third is the strong growth in our higher margin commercial revenues , which , together with our careful cost management , resulted in a ten basis point improvement in adjusted EBITDA margin in line with our plan to maintain margins despite reduced revenue .

John Wasson: Third is the strong growth in our higher margin commercial revenues, which together with our careful cost management resulted in a 10 basis point improvement in adjusted EBITDA margin in line with our plan to maintain margins despite reduced revenue. Lastly, the value of our contract awards, which surpassed year-ago levels, resulted in a book-to-bill ratio of 1.53 for the third quarter. Our year-to-date contract awards of $1.8 billion, together with our $8.4 billion pipeline, support our outlook for return to growth in 2026. We had expected third quarter revenues to be approximately $15 million higher than reported. This variance was primarily due to delays in the ramp-up of our recently won international government contracts, although that situation is getting progressively better.

Speaker #4: And lastly , the value of our contract awards , which surpassed year ago levels , resulted in a book to bill ratio of 1.53 for the third quarter or year to date , contract awards of 1.8 billion .

Speaker #4: Together with our 8.4 billion pipeline supports our outlook for return to growth in 2026 . We had expected third quarter revenues to be approximately 15 million higher than reported .

Speaker #4: This variance was primarily due to delays . The ramp up of a recently won international government contracts , although that situation is getting progressively better , and another factor was the slowdown in federal government procurement and project activities , particularly in our programmatic public health and human services areas .

John Wasson: Another factor was the slowdown in federal government procurement and project activities, particularly in our programmatic public health and human services areas in the latter half of Q3, leading up to the government shutdown. With the federal government on everyone's mind, I will begin my business review with our results in that area and how the government shutdown has affected ICF International to date. In the third quarter, our federal government revenues declined 3% sequentially, representing a 29.8% decline from last year's third quarter. The dollar amount of our total 2025 federal revenues impacted by contract cancellations did not change in Q3, as we have not experienced any material new cancellations since our last report on July 31.

Speaker #4: In the latter half of Q3, leading up to the government shutdown, the federal government was on everyone's mind. I will begin my business review with our results in that area and how the government shutdown has affected ICF.

Speaker #4: To date , in the third quarter , our federal government revenues declined 3% sequentially , representing a 29.8% decline from last year's third quarter .

Speaker #4: The dollar amount of our total 2025 federal revenues impacted by contract cancellations did not change in Q3 , as we have not experienced any material new cancellations since our last report on July 31st .

Speaker #4: However , expectations for Q3 federal revenues as I just mentioned , were affected by the slower pace of program and procurement activity this quarter .

John Wasson: However, expectations for Q3 federal revenues, as I just mentioned, were affected by the slower pace of program and procurement activity this quarter, as things slowed down considerably in advance of the shutdown. There are several good news items to report in our federal government work for Q3. Approximately one-half of our third quarter contract awards represented work for federal government clients, and about one-half of these wins represented new business, including broadening of scope on current contracts. This new award activity, combined with our high re-compete win rates, is a good indication of how well ICF International's capabilities are aligned with the needs of our federal agency clients. In particular, you can see from today's release that we are winning both our re-competes and new work in IT modernization services.

Speaker #4: As things slowed down considerably in advance of the shutdown, there are several good news items to report, and our federal government work for Q3.

Speaker #4: Approximately one half of our third quarter contract awards represented work for federal government clients in about one half of these wins represented new business , including broadening of scope on current contracts .

Speaker #4: This new award activity , combined with our high recompete win rates , is a good indication of how well Icf's capabilities are aligned with the needs of our federal agency clients .

Speaker #4: In particular , you can see from today's release that we are winning both our recompete and new work , and it modernization . Our differentiated approach to building agile , flexible and lean engineering and product teams is allowing us to deliver value quicker and more efficiently than competitors .

John Wasson: Our differentiated approach to building agile, flexible, and lean engineering and product teams is allowing us to deliver value quicker and more efficiently than competitors. Approximately 80% of the work we currently perform in this area is in agile scrums and sprints, and more than half is under fixed price for outcome-based contracts, which is aligned with the shift in federal contract procurement parameters. We're also seeing growing client interest in ICF Fathom, a new suite of tailored artificial intelligence solutions and services designed specifically for federal agencies. This is a production-ready solution that can integrate seamlessly into existing systems at scale to unlock the full potential of AI to support mission outcomes. We have won a few initial contracts and have seen very positive responses to this launch from several of our federal agency clients interested in areas such as citizen engagement, technical assistance, program evaluation, and policy modeling.

Speaker #4: Approximately 80% of the work we currently perform in this area is in Azo scrums and sprints , and more than half is under fixed price for outcome based contracts , which is aligned with the shift in federal contract procurement parameters .

Speaker #4: And we're also seeing growing client interest in ICF Fathom, the new suite of tailored artificial intelligence solutions and services designed specifically for federal agencies.

Speaker #4: This is a production-ready solution that can integrate seamlessly into existing systems at scale to unlock the full potential of AI to support mission outcomes.

Speaker #4: We have won a few initial contracts and have seen very positive response to this launch . From several of our federal agency clients interested in areas such as citizen engagement , technical assistance , program evaluation , and policy modeling .

Speaker #4: Now, to the financial impact of the government shutdown in the month of October, we estimate that ICS revenue will be reduced by approximately $8 million in gross profit, by approximately $2.5 million.

John Wasson: Now to the financial impact of the government shutdown. In the month of October, we estimate that ICF International's revenue will be reduced by approximately $8 million and gross profit by approximately $2.5 million as a result of the current government shutdown. Our IT modernization services practice has seen relatively few stop-work orders. The majority of stop-work orders have been related to our public health and human services work. Also, proposal activities have continued in IT modernization services, although there has been some slowdown. All in all, the impact on ICF International to date has been painful, but manageable, and we view this as a temporary situation. While we have taken steps to reduce costs associated with work that has been curtailed, we currently plan to retain key staff, which will position us to quickly recoup the majority of these revenues in future periods.

Speaker #4: As a result of the current government shutdown . Our team modernization practice has seemed relatively few stop work orders . The majority of stop work orders have been related to our public health and human services work .

Speaker #4: Also , proposal activities have continued in it modernization . Although has been some slowdown . All in all , the impact on ICF to date has been painful , but manageable and we view this as a temporary situation .

Speaker #4: While we have taken steps to reduce costs associated with work that has been curtailed , we're currently planning to retain key staff which will position us to quickly recoup the majority of these revenues in future periods .

Speaker #4: You will see that we filed an AK this afternoon , noting that our named executive officers will take a 20% salary reduction . The length of the shutdown , in consideration of the impact of the shutdown and in support of our employees and clients .

John Wasson: You will see that we filed an 8-K this afternoon, noting that our named executive officers will take a 20% salary reduction for the length of the shutdown in consideration of the impact of the shutdown and in support of our employees and clients. Now we'll move on to our non-federal government work, which accounted for 57% of our third quarter revenues, and it's making a positive difference for us as we navigate dynamic market conditions in the federal space. Revenues from our commercial, state and local, and international government clients increased 13.8% year-on-year in the third quarter, led by a 24% increase in revenues from commercial energy clients. Our consolidated third quarter margins benefited from the increased contributions from our fast-growing commercial energy work, which represented 30% of our third quarter revenues, up from 22% in last year's third quarter.

Speaker #4: Now , I'll move on to our non-federal government work , which accounted for 57% of our third quarter revenues . And it's making a positive difference for us as we navigate dynamic market conditions in the federal space .

Speaker #4: Revenues from our commercial state and local and international government clients increased 13.8% year on year in the third quarter , led by a 24% increase in revenues from commercial energy clients .

Speaker #4: Our consolidated third quarter margins benefited from the increased contributions from our fast growing commercial energy work , which represented 30% of our third quarter revenues , up from 22% , in last year's third quarter .

Speaker #4: Additionally, our long-standing work for commercial clients has given ICF the experience and infrastructure to effectively work in this year, a competitive advantage in today's federal market.

John Wasson: Additionally, our long-standing work for commercial clients has given ICF International the experience and infrastructure to effectively work in this milieu, a competitive advantage in today's federal market as federal agencies are being encouraged to adopt a more commercial business model. Third quarter revenue growth from commercial energy clients was led by strong demand from our utility clients for ICF International's industry-leading energy efficiency programs and expertise in flexible load management, electrification, grid resilience, and affordability, expertise that is closely aligned with the needs of our utility clients as they respond to increased demand for electricity. We are executing on new and expanded programs, as well as gaining market share in both residential and commercial energy efficiency program development and implementation.

Speaker #4: As federal agencies are being encouraged to adopt a more commercial business model . Third quarter revenue growth from commercial energy clients was led by strong demand from our utility clients for ICF industry leading energy efficiency programs and expertise in flexible load management .

Speaker #4: Electrification with resilience and affordability expertise that is closely aligned with the needs of our utility clients as they respond to increased demand for electricity .

Speaker #4: We are executing on new and expanded programs, as well as gaining market share in both residential and commercial energy efficiency program development and implementation.

Speaker #4: Additionally , in energy advisory , we saw higher demand for our grid engineering , renewable development and transaction services and environment and planning .

John Wasson: Additionally, in energy advisory, we saw higher demand for our grid engineering, renewable development, and transaction services, and in environment and planning, we benefited from increased renewable and transmission permitting, construction monitoring, and wildfire restoration projects. We continue to see evidence that our commercial energy business will sustain its strong growth. Despite the lack of support for renewables by the new administration, we believe that renewable and storage development by the private sector on non-federal lands will continue due to the advanced economics of these technologies and the need to meet the demands of rapid load growth. Additionally, we have worked across a full suite of resources supported by this administration, including natural gas, nuclear, and coal, that will also be important in optimally serving the emerging needs for power. We have seen an uptick in development and M&A opportunities in these areas.

Speaker #4: We benefited from increased renewable and transmission , permitting , construction , monitoring and restoration projects . We continue to see evidence that our commercial energy business will sustain its strong growth , despite the lack of support from renewables by the new administration .

Speaker #4: We believe that renewable and storage development by the private sector on non-federal lands will continue to advance economics of these technologies and the need to meet the demands of rapid load growth .

Speaker #4: Additionally , we work across a full suite of resources supported by this administration , including natural gas , nuclear and coal . There will also be important optimally serving the emerging needs for power , and we have seen an uptick in development and M&A activities in these areas .

Speaker #4: We continue to benefit from the rapid increase in electricity demand associated with AI data centers and other large loads by providing a broad range of services necessary to plan site , permit , connect and manage such facilities .

John Wasson: We continue to benefit from the rapid increase in electricity demand associated with AI, data centers, and other large loads by providing a broad range of services necessary to plan, site, permit, connect, and manage such facilities. ICF International is currently working with utility clients, hyperscalers, and independent power and renewable energy firms, providing services ranging from location analysis, transmission planning, distribution engineering, and construction permitting through community engagement and workforce development. The major load-growth challenge, the range of complex technical issues involved, and the diversity of stakeholders make ICF International well-positioned for continued growth in this area. Moving on to state and local government clients, our revenues increased 3.8% in the third quarter, primarily reflecting year-on-year growth in our technology work in the disaster recovery arena. ICF International is currently supporting 95 active disaster recovery projects in 22 states and territories.

Speaker #4: I see this currently working with utility clients , hyperscalers and independent power and renewable energy firms providing services ranging from locational analysis , transmission planning , distribution , distribution , engineering and construction , permitting through community engagement and workforce development to meet the low growth challenge .

Speaker #4: The range of complex technical issues involved and the diversity of stakeholders make ICF well positioned for continued growth in this area . Moving on to state and local government clients .

Speaker #4: Our revenues increased 3.8% in the third quarter, primarily reflecting year-on-year growth in our technology work in the disaster recovery arena.

Speaker #4: ICF is currently supporting 95 active disaster recovery projects in 22 states and territories . This includes new contracts in California , Oregon , Virginia and Michigan , which were awarded during Q3 .

John Wasson: This includes new contracts in California, Oregon, Virginia, and Michigan, which were awarded during Q3. We continue to see HUD-funded procurement opportunities resulting from the nearly $12 billion appropriation to enable long-term recovery from disaster declarations in 2023 and 2024, and are actively positioning to compete for these procurements. Additionally, in response to uncertainty with respect to the future role of FEMA, state governments are showing additional interest in disaster case management, individual assistance, as they consider potential implications of taking on additional responsibility for initial disaster response and recovery efforts. ICF International is actively engaged with state emergency management agencies, and we are broadening our partnerships in emergency response disaster survivor assistance arena as the states prepare for the possibility of additional responsibilities.

Speaker #4: We continue to see HUD funded procurement opportunities resulting from the nearly 12 billion appropriation to enable long term recovery from disaster declarations in 2023 and 2024 .

Speaker #4: Interactively positioning to compete for these procurements. Additionally, in response to uncertainty with respect to the future role of FEMA, state governments are showing a decent interest in disaster case management and individual assistance as they consider potential implications of taking on additional responsibility for initial disaster response and recovery efforts.

Speaker #4: ICF is actively engaged with state Emergency management agencies , and we are broadening our partnerships in emergency response , disaster survivor assistance arena at the state prepare for the possibility of additional responsibilities .

Speaker #4: A climate , environment and infrastructure services represent the other major component of our work for state and local government clients and revenues in this market have remained relatively stable as federal emphasis on environmental protection declines .

John Wasson: Our climate, environment, and infrastructure services represent the other major component of our work for state and local government clients, and revenues in this market have remained relatively stable. As federal emphasis on environmental protection declines, we are seeing many states increase their efforts to fill the gap, creating opportunities for ICF International in state planning, rulemaking, stakeholder engagement, permitting, and compliance. We are also experiencing increased demand for sectors with strong economic activity, including data centers, fiber networks, minerals extraction, and transportation. We are working on synergies with our disaster management teams and supporting states with recovery efforts, including Florida, New Jersey, and others. We continue to benefit from solid revenue growth from international clients in the third quarter. Revenues increased 8% year-on-year. We have one key re-compete and new business.

Speaker #4: We are seeing many states increase their efforts to fill the gap , creating opportunities for ICF and state planning , rulemaking , stakeholder engagement , permitting , and compliance .

Speaker #4: We also experiencing increased demand for sectors with strong economic activity , including data centers , fiber networks , minerals extraction , and transportation , and we're working on synergies with our disaster management teams and supporting states with recovery efforts , including Florida , new Jersey and others .

Speaker #4: We continue to benefit from solid revenue growth from international clients . In the third quarter , revenues increased 8% year on year . We have one key reconvenes and new business .

Speaker #4: As I mentioned earlier , the ramp up of the new contracts with the European Commission and the UK government late in 2024 . And earlier this year has been slower than we originally anticipated as we expected double digit revenue growth in the second half of this year .

John Wasson: As I mentioned earlier, the ramp-up of the new contracts we've won with the European Commission and the UK government late in 2024 and earlier this year has been slower than we originally anticipated, as we expected double-digit revenue growth in the second half of this year. We have seen sequential acceleration in the number of task orders being issued under these contracts over the last two quarters, though we now do not expect the full benefit of these contracts until 2026. To sum up, our third quarter performance demonstrated the benefits of ICF International's diversified client base, our agility in adapting to challenging market conditions in the federal government, and our success in winning re-competes and new business.

Speaker #4: We have seen sequential acceleration in a number of task orders being issued under these contracts over the last two quarters , but we now do not expect the full benefit benefit of these contracts until 2026 .

Speaker #4: To sum up, our third quarter performance demonstrated the benefits of ICS's diversified client base, our agility in adapting to challenging market conditions in the federal government, and our success in winning new business.

Speaker #4: I'm sure that many of you have seen the release we issued today, simultaneous with our earnings, announcing that Barry Broadus, our CFO, is retiring. We have also named two of our senior roles.

John Wasson: I'm sure that many of you have seen the release we issued today simultaneous with our earnings, announcing that Barry Broadus, our CFO, is retiring, and we have named two of our senior executives to new roles. First, let me say that Barry has been a tremendous asset to ICF International. He has strengthened our financial capabilities, built a strong finance team, and positioned ICF International to take advantage of future growth opportunities. We certainly wish him all the best in his retirement. We are fortunate to have a strong group of talented leaders like James Morgan and Ann Choate to help drive our future growth. We have James Morgan, currently COO, to take on the additional role of CFO following the publication of ICF International's full-year 2025 financial results.

Speaker #4: First , let me say that Barry has been a tremendous asset to ICF is to lengthen our financial capabilities , built a strong finance team and positioned ICF to take advantage of future growth opportunities .

Speaker #4: We certainly wish them all the best in his retirement . We are fortunate to have a strong group of talented leaders at James Morgan and Anne Choate to help drive our future growth .

Speaker #4: We have tapped James Morgan , currently COO , to take on the additional role of CFO following the publication of Esf's full year 2020 financial results .

Speaker #4: In addition , Anne , Executive Vice president , will take on the role of president of ICF early in 2026 . I look forward to working closely with both of them to drive organic growth and acquisition growth , and to implement financial strategies to build our future growth and profitability .

John Wasson: In addition, Ann Choate, currently Executive Vice President, will take on the role of President of ICF International early in 2026. I look forward to working closely with both of them to drive organic growth and acquisition growth and to implement financial strategies to build our future growth and profitability. With that, I'll now turn the call over to Barry for a financial review. Barry? Thank you, John. I want to say that it's been a pleasure to work at ICF International over these past four years. ICF International is truly an amazing organization with an outstanding team of dedicated and passionate professionals. Serving as the ICF International CFO has certainly been the pinnacle of my career. I could not end my career working with a better team of people. With that said, I am now pleased to provide you with some additional details on our third quarter financial performance.

Speaker #4: So with that , I'll now turn the call over to Barry for a financial review . Barry . Thank you . John . We say that .

Speaker #5: It's been a pleasure to work at ICF over these past four years . ICF is truly an amazing organization with an outstanding team of dedicated and passionate professionals serving as the ICF CFO has certainly been the pinnacle of my career .

Speaker #5: I could not have ended my career working with a better team of people. That said, I will now please provide you with some additional details on our third quarter financial performance.

Speaker #5: Third quarter revenues totaled 465.4 million , compared to 417 million in the third quarter of 2020 . For and relatively stable with the 476.2 million reported in this year's second quarter .

John Wasson: Third quarter revenues totaled $465.4 million compared to $517 million in the third quarter of 2024, and were relatively stable with the $476.2 million reported in this year's second quarter. The year-over-year revenue comparisons reflect ongoing headwinds in our federal government business, partially offset by the continued strength across our commercial, state and local, and international client base. On a year-to-date basis, revenues decreased 6.2%, and revenues excluding subcontractor and other direct costs declined 4.3%. Revenues from commercial, state and local, and international clients increased 13.8% in the quarter, led by the robust growth in our commercial energy business, which posted a 24.3% year-over-year increase. On a year-to-date basis, our energy business grew approximately 25% and represented 28% of our total year-to-date revenues.

Speaker #5: The year over year revenue comparisons reflect ongoing headwinds in our federal government business , partially offset by the continued strength across our commercial state and local and international client base .

Speaker #5: On a year to date basis , revenues decreased 6.2% and revenues excluding subcontractor and other direct costs declined 4.3% . Revenues from commercial , state and local and international clients increased 13.8% in the quarter , led by the robust growth in our commercial energy business , which posted a 24.3% year over year increase on a year to date basis .

Speaker #5: Our energy business grew approximately 25% and represented 28% of our total year to date revenues . The strength in this client category underscores the ongoing demand from our utility clients for Icf's expertise in energy efficiency , flexible load management , and grid resilience solutions capabilities that are increasingly critical as they address our country's growing demands for electricity .

John Wasson: The strength in this client category underscores the ongoing demand from our utility clients for ICF International's expertise in energy efficiency, flexible load management, and grid-resilient solutions, capabilities that are increasingly critical as they address our country's growing demands for electricity. The continued strong growth in revenues from our non-federal government clients offset a significant portion of the 29.8% year-on-year decline in federal revenues in the third quarter, reflecting the continued impact of the contract funding reductions and the procurement delays that John mentioned in his remarks. On a sequential basis, federal revenues declined only 3% as the impact of contract cancellations has remained stable following our second quarter earnings call.

Speaker #5: The continued strong growth in revenues from our Nonfederal government clients offset a significant portion of the 29.8% year on year decline in federal revenues in the third quarter , reflecting the continued impact of the contract funding reductions and the procurement delays that John mentioned in his remarks .

Speaker #5: On a sequential basis , federal revenues declined only 3% as the impact of contract cancellations has remained stable . Following our second quarter earnings call to date , we have seen an impact on 2020 revenues of approximately 117 million and a total backlog impact of approximately 420 million from contract cancellations and stop work orders with no material increases .

John Wasson: To date, we have seen an impact on 2025 revenues of approximately $117 million and a total backlog impact of approximately $420 million from contract cancellations in stock for quarters, with no material increases since our last call on July 31. Third quarter subcontractor and other direct costs declined 11.8% year-over-year and represented 24.2% of total revenues, down 50 basis points from the 24.7% in the third quarter of 2024. The decline was primarily tied to lower pass-through revenues in the federal business. As a result, a higher percentage of our revenue was tied to ICF International direct labor, which generates higher margins. Third quarter gross margin expanded 50 basis points to 37.6%, primarily driven by a continued shift in our business mix towards higher margin commercial revenues, including the uptick in our energy business.

Speaker #5: Since our last call on July 31st . Third quarter , subcontractor and other direct costs declined 11.8% year over year and represented 24.2% of total revenues , down 50 basis points from the 24.7% in the third quarter of 2020 .

Speaker #5: For the decline was primarily tied to . Lower pass through revenues and federal business . As a result , a higher percentage of our revenue was tied to ICF direct labor , which generates higher margins .

Speaker #5: Third quarter gross margin expanded 50 basis points to 37.6% , primarily driven by a continued shift in our business mix towards higher margin commercial revenues , including the uptick in our energy business , gross margin also continues to benefit from higher proportion of ICF direct labor that I mentioned , as well as the more favorable contract mix as fixed price and contracts represented 93% of our third quarter revenue , up from 88% in the year ago quarter .

John Wasson: Gross margin also continues to benefit from a higher proportion of ICF International direct labor that I mentioned, as well as the more favorable contract mix as fixed-price and TNM contracts represented 93% of our third quarter revenue, up from 88% in the year-ago quarter, while our cost-reimbursable contracts accounted for only 7% of third quarter revenues. Indirect costs declined 7.9% to $122.3 million and represented 26.3% of total revenues. As we have discussed on recent calls, we remain focused on managing our indirect costs while continuing to invest in growth areas, expand our capabilities in AI and other technologies, and implement systems and tools that increase our efficiency and will support our future growth. As we navigate the current government shutdown, we will continue to be mindful of tightly managing our costs by balancing short-term results with our plans for a return to growth in 2026.

Speaker #5: While our cost reimbursable contracts accounted for only 7% of third quarter revenues . Indirect costs declined 7.9% to 122.3 million , and represented 26.3% of total revenues .

Speaker #5: As we have discussed on recent calls , we remain focused on managing our indirect costs while continuing to invest in growth areas , expand our capabilities in AI and other technologies , and implement systems and tools that increase our efficiency and will support our future growth as we navigate the current government shutdown , we will continue to be mindful of tightly managing our costs by balancing short term results with our plans for a return to growth in 2026 .

Speaker #5: Thus , the shutdown continues . It will impact our fourth quarter margins as we need to maintain a certain level of staffing and core capabilities in order to ramp up quickly once the shutdown is lifted .

John Wasson: Thus, if the shutdown continues, it will impact our fourth quarter margins as we need to maintain a certain level of staffing and core capabilities in order to ramp up quickly once the shutdown is lifted. Third quarter EBITDA totaled $52.8 million, down from $58.2 million in the third quarter of 2024. Adjusted EBITDA was $53.2 million compared to $58.5 million in last year's third quarter. As a percentage of total revenue, adjusted EBITDA margins expanded 10 basis points to 11.4%, reflecting our gross margin expansion as well as our success in executing cost management initiatives. Net interest expense in the third quarter amounted to $7.9 million compared to $7.2 million in last year's third quarter due to a higher average debt balance related to the Applied Energy Group acquisition in December of last year, as well as our repurchase of ICF International stock.

Speaker #5: Third quarter EBITDA totaled 52.8 million , down from 58.2 million in the third quarter of 2024 , an adjusted EBITDA was 53.2 million , compared to 58.5 million in last year's third quarter .

Speaker #5: As a percentage of total revenue . Adjusted EBITDA margins expanded ten basis points to 11.4% , reflecting our gross margin expansion as well as our success in executing cost management initiatives .

Speaker #5: Net interest expense in the third quarter amounted to 7.9 million , compared to 7.2 million in last year's third quarter , due to a higher average debt balance related to the acquisition in December of last year , as well as our repurchase of ICF stock , our tax rate was 22.7% , above the 13.8% in the prior year quarter .

John Wasson: Our tax rate was 22.7% above the 13.8% in the prior year quarter. In this year's third quarter, we incurred a one-time negative tax adjustment related, in part, to certain tax provisions and the new legislation signed into law this past July. As a reminder, last year's third quarter tax rate benefited from tax optimization strategies and several one-time tax benefits the company enjoyed at that time. Additionally, as we discussed in our last call, our full-year 2025 tax rate is expected to be approximately 18.5%. We also estimate that our tax rate for 2026 will be in the range of 21%. From a cash tax perspective, we expect to realize approximately $30 million in cash savings in 2025 and an additional $40 million in 2026 resulting from provisions of the new tax legislation I mentioned.

Speaker #5: In this year's third quarter , we incurred a one time negative tax adjustment . Related in part to certain tax provisions . And the new legislation signed into law this past July .

Speaker #5: As a reminder , last year's third quarter tax rate benefited from tax optimization strategies and several one time tax benefits , the company enjoyed at that time .

Speaker #5: Additionally , as we discussed in our last call , our full year 2025 tax rate is expected to be approximately 18.5% , and we also estimate that our tax rate for 2026 will be in the range of 21% .

Speaker #5: From a cash tax perspective , we expect to realize approximately $30 million in cash savings in 2025 and additional 40,000,000 in 2026 resulting from provisions of the new tax legislation I mentioned .

Speaker #5: Net income totaled 23.8 million , or $1.28 per diluted share , compared to net income of 32.7 million , or $1.73 per diluted share , in the third quarter of 2020 .

John Wasson: Net income totaled $23.8 million, or $1.28 per diluted share, compared to net income of $32.7 million, or $1.73 per diluted share, in the third quarter of 2024. Non-GAAP EPS was $1.67, inclusive of a $0.04 per share impact related to the negative tax adjustment I just noted. Last year's third quarter non-GAAP EPS was $2.13. Our backlog stood at $3.5 billion at quarter-end, up approximately $180 million as compared to the second quarter of this year due to the robust book-to-bill total of $1.53 that John previously noted. 52% of our backlog is funded. Our third quarter new business development pipeline stood at $8.4 billion and is approximately 4.3 times our trailing 12-month revenues. Third quarter operating cash flow was $47.3 million, up from $25.5 million in the comparable quarter last year. Year-to-date operating cash flow totaled $66.2 million.

Speaker #5: For non-GAAP EPs was $1 . 67 , inclusive of a $0.04 per share impact related to the negative tax adjustment . I just noted last year's third quarter non-GAAP EPs was $2.13 .

Speaker #5: Our backlog stood at 3.5 billion at quarter end , up approximately 180 million as compared to the second quarter of this year due to the robust book to bill total of 1.53 that John previously noted , 52% of our backlog is funded .

Speaker #5: Our third quarter new business development pipeline stood at 8.4 billion and approximately 4.3 times our trailing 12 month revenues . Third quarter operating cash flow was 47.3 million , up from 25.5 million , in the comparable quarter last year .

Speaker #5: Year to date , operating cash flow totaled 66.2 million . Days sales outstanding were 82 , compared to 80 days in the prior sequential quarter and third quarter .

John Wasson: Day sales outstanding were 82 days compared to 80 days in the prior sequential quarter, and third quarter capital expenditures were $5.5 million as compared to $5.2 million in last year's third quarter. We ended the quarter with debt of $449 million, down from $460 million at the end of the second quarter. The third quarter debt reduction was in line with the debt reduction in the same period last year. 39% of our debt carries a fixed rate, and we are tracking to have approximately 45% of our debt at a fixed rate by year-end. Our adjusted leverage ratio was 2.13 times at quarter-end, and absent any acquisitions, we expect our leverage position to decrease by about a quarter of a turn by year-end. Our approach to capital allocation remains consistent and disciplined.

Speaker #5: Capital expenditures were 5.5 million , as compared to 5.2 million in last year's third quarter . We ended the quarter with debt of 449 million , down from 460 million at the end of the second quarter .

Speaker #5: The third quarter debt reduction was in line with the debt reduction in the same period last year , 39% of our debt carries a fixed rate , and we are tracking to have approximately 45% of our debt at a fixed rate by year end .

Speaker #5: Our adjusted leverage ratio was 2.13 times at quarter end , and absent any acquisitions , we expect our leverage position to decrease by about a quarter of a turn by year end .

Speaker #5: Our approach to capital allocation remains consistent and disciplined . We are focusing on investing , investing in organic growth , pursuing strategic acquisitions and attractive markets , paying down debt , sustaining our quarterly dividend payments , and executing on opportunistic share buybacks .

John Wasson: We are focusing on investing in organic growth, pursuing strategic acquisitions in attractive markets, paying down debt, sustaining our quarterly dividend payments, and executing on opportunistic share buybacks. As we noted last quarter, we have been prioritizing debt repayments to position ICF International for acquisition activities in 2026. Today, we announced a quarterly cash dividend of $0.14 per share, payable on January 9, 2026, to shareholders of record on December 5, 2025. For modeling purposes for the fourth quarter, we estimate the year-on-year % decline in revenues and non-GAAP EPS to be similar to what we experienced in the third quarter. This assumes the impact of the government shutdown remains consistent with the estimated reduction of approximately $8 million in revenue and $2.5 million of gross profit for the month of October, and the government shutdown extends to the end of the year.

Speaker #5: As we noted last quarter , we have been prioritizing debt repayments to position ICF for acquisition activities in 2026 . Today , we announced a quarterly cash dividend of $0.14 per share .

Speaker #5: Payable on January 9th , 2026 , shareholders of record on December 5th , 2025 . Modeling purposes for the fourth quarter , we estimate that year on year percentage decline in revenues and non-GAAP EPs to be similar to what we experienced in the third quarter .

Speaker #5: This assumes the impact of the government shutdown remains consistent with the estimated reduction of approximately 8 million in revenue and 2.5 million of gross profit for the month of October , and the government shutdown extends through the end of the year .

Speaker #5: We have also revised our cash flow guidance to a range of $125 million to $150 million, down from approximately $150 million, to reflect the potential collection delays related to the shutdown.

John Wasson: We have also revised our cash flow guidance to a range of $125 million to $150 million from approximately $150 million to reflect the potential collection delays related to the shutdown. In addition, other full-year guidance metrics include the following. Our depreciation and amortization expenses now expect to range from $20 million to $22 million, down from $21 million to $23 million. Amortization of intangibles expected to remain between $35 million and $37 million. We anticipate interest expenses to range from $30 million to $32 million. Capital expenditures are now anticipated to be between $23 million and $25 million, down from the prior range of $26 million to $28 million. As we previously noted, our full-year tax rate is expected to be approximately 18.5%. Finally, we expect the fully diluted weighted average share count to be approximately 18.6 million.

Speaker #5: In addition , other full year guidance metrics include the following . Our depreciation and amortization expense is now expected to range from 20 to 22 million , down from 21 to 23 million .

Speaker #5: Amortization of intangibles is expected to remain between $35 million and $37 million. We anticipate interest expense to range from $30 million to $32 million.

Speaker #5: Capital expenditures are now anticipated to be between 23 and 25 million , down from the prior range of 26 to 28 million . As we previously noted , our full year tax rate is expected to be approximately 18.5% .

Speaker #5: And finally , we expect a fully diluted weighted average share count to be approximately 18.6 million . And with that , I'll now turn the call back over to John for his closing remarks .

John Wasson: With that, I will now turn the call back over to John for his closing remarks. Thanks, Barry. Our year-to-date results have put us squarely within the guidance framework we provided for 2025 at the beginning of this year. We stated that a 10% decline in revenues, GAAP EPS, and non-GAAP EPS from 2024 levels was the maximum downside risk we foresaw from the loss of business primarily from federal government clients during this transition year. At that time, we also noted that our guidance framework did not consider the potential impact of an extended government shutdown. As I previously mentioned, in the month of October, we estimated the shutdown will reduce ICF International's revenues and gross profit by approximately $8 million and $2.5 million, respectively.

Speaker #4: Thanks , Barry . Our year to date results have put us squarely within the guidance framework we provided for 2025 . At the beginning of this year , we stated that a 10% decline in revenues , GAAP , EPs , and non-GAAP EPs from 2024 levels was the maximum downside risk we saw from the loss of business , primarily from federal government clients , during this transition year .

Speaker #4: At that time , we also noted that our guidance framework did not consider the potential impact of an extended extended government shutdown . As I previously mentioned , in the month of October , we estimate that the shutdown will reduce excess revenues and gross profit by approximately 8,000,002.5 million , respectively .

Speaker #4: Based on this monthly impact continuing, we are pleased to be able to maintain our original guidance framework for revenues and non-GAAP EPS, even if the government shutdown extends through the end of the year.

John Wasson: Based on this monthly impact continuing, we are pleased to be able to maintain our original guidance framework for revenues and non-GAAP EPS, even if the government shutdown extends through the end of the year. Looking ahead, we continue to be confident in our ability to return to revenue and earnings growth in 2026. This outlook is supported by the continued growth from our non-federal government clients, improvement from portions of our federal government business, recent contract wins, and a large pipeline of opportunities. Also, as Barry mentioned, we are keeping our powder dry as we consider potential acquisitions in 2026 that will provide additional growth momentum, and we have substantial authorized capacity for share repurchases.

Speaker #4: Looking ahead , we continue to be confident in our ability to return to revenue and earnings growth in 2026 . This outlook is supported by the continued growth from our non-federal government clients , improvement from portions of our federal government business , recent contract wins , and a large pipeline of opportunities .

Speaker #4: Also , as Barry mentioned , we are keeping our powder dry as we consider potential acquisitions in 2026 and will provide additional growth momentum .

Speaker #4: And we have substantial authorized capacity for share repurchases . Our professional staff across all markets and geographies have been instrumental in helping us navigate difficult business conditions and their ongoing commitment to our clients underpins our ability to drive long term growth .

John Wasson: Our professional staff across all markets and geographies have been instrumental in helping us navigate difficult business conditions, and their ongoing commitment to ICF International and our clients underpins our ability to drive long-term growth. With that, Operator, I'll be pleased to open the call to questions. Thank you. At this time, we will conduct the question-and-answer session. As a reminder, to ask a question, you will need to press *11 on your telephone and wait for your name to be announced. To withdraw your question, please press *11 again. Please stand by while we compile the Q&A roster. Our first question comes from the line of Tim Mulroney with William Blair. Your line is now open. Yeah, good afternoon. Thanks for taking my questions. I wanted to start off by saying congratulations to Barry on a well-earned retirement and to Ann and James on the promotions. Thank you.

Speaker #4: With that , operator , I'm pleased to open the call to questions .

Speaker #2: Thank you . At this time , we will conduct the question and answer session . As a reminder to ask a question , you will need to press star one one on your telephone and wait for your name to be announced .

Speaker #2: To withdraw your question , please press star one . One again . Please stand by while we compile the Q&A roster . Our first question comes from the line of Tim Mulrooney with William Blair .

Speaker #2: Your line is now open.

Speaker #6: Yeah . Good afternoon . Thanks for taking my questions . I wanted to start off by saying congratulations to Barry and a well earned retirement , and to Anne and James on the promotions .

Speaker #4: Thank you .

Speaker #5: Thank you. Thank you, Jim.

John Wasson: Thank you. Thank you, Tim. You bet. Sorry, I've been hopping around calls here, so apologies if I missed it, but did you give an indication for how much you expect your federal business to be down in the fourth quarter? I don't know. We did not give a Q4 estimate for what the government business would be down. I mean, the fourth quarter. Obviously, year-to-date, we've reported those numbers. We're down about 22.7% through the end of the third quarter. Obviously, with the government shutdown, we'll be down further in the fourth quarter, Barry. I don't know if we can. I mean, I would say that absent the government shutdown, we expect that our fourth quarter federal revenues will be down more than what we had in the third quarter.

Speaker #6: You bet . So sorry I've been hopping around calls here , so apologies if I missed it , but did you give an indication for how much you expect your business to be down in the fourth quarter ?

Speaker #4: I don't know , we had not we did not give up to four . Estimate for what ? What the government business would be down in the fourth quarter .

Speaker #4: You know , obviously year to date we've reported those numbers and we're down about 22% , 27% through the end of the third quarter .

Speaker #4: Obviously, with the government shutdown, we will be down further in the fourth quarter. Barry, I don't know if we...

Speaker #5: I would say that , you know , absent of the government shutdown , we expect that our fourth quarter federal revenues will be down more than what we had in the third quarter .

Speaker #5: But if you include this , the government shutdown and the impact that we mentioned , it would be , you know , more than substantially more than the third quarter decline .

John Wasson: If you include the government shutdown and the impact that we mentioned, it would be substantially more than the third quarter decline. Yeah, that makes sense. You did give the full, your total revenue assumption, so we can try to back into it. Yeah. Thank you. In your guidance assumptions, you said that you're expecting an $8 million revenue hit per month from the shutdown, which on the surface, I think, is less than what we were expecting. Is it just that many of these projects are still progressing along, just without government interaction? Is there something that we're just not fully appreciating here, the dynamics around this business? I think it's a mix. We certainly have had a set of projects that were placed in stop work, and based on the activity on those projects, that occurred early in October.

Speaker #6: Yeah , that makes sense . And you did give the full your , you know , total revenue assumption . So we can , you know .

Speaker #4: So .

Speaker #6: You try to back into it . Yeah . Thank you . You know in in your guidance assumptions , you said that you're only you're expecting an 8 million revenue hit per month from , from the from the shutdown , which on the surface I think is less than what we were expecting .

Speaker #6: Is it just that many of these projects are still progressing along ? Just without government interaction ? Is there something that we're just not fully appreciating here , that the dynamics around this business ?

Speaker #4: Well , I think it's a mix . I mean , we certainly have had a set of projects that were placed in stop work , you know , and based on the activity on those projects , that's and that occurred early in October .

Speaker #4: So we saw those impacts quite quickly . And that amounts to $8 million of impact for October . And you know , I think so for the quarter , we would expect a $25 million impact on revenues .

John Wasson: We saw those impacts quite quickly, and that amounts to $8 million of impact for October. I think for the quarter, we would expect a $25 million impact on revenues and a $7.5 million impact on gross profit, just extrapolating on those numbers. We think that's a good number, and given that we saw those impacts early in the month and really haven't seen material increase since early October, we feel pretty good about that number. It is certainly the case that a portion of our government business continues to operate, and it's not been impacted by the government shutdown. There's a portion that has been impacted by the shutdown. In certain cases, we can continue to work, it's fixed price, and we have funding, and we have the appropriate technical direction. Then we've seen the projects that are shut down.

Speaker #4: And the $7.5 million impact on gross profit just extrapolating on those numbers , you know , and and so we think that's a good number , you know , and given that we we saw those impacts early in the month and really haven't seen material increase , you know , since early October , and we feel pretty good about that number .

Speaker #4: It's certainly the case that , you know , a portion of our government business continues to operate and has not been impacted by the government shutdown .

Speaker #4: If there's a portion that has been impacted by the shutdown in certain cases, we can continue to work. It's fixed price, and we have funding, and we have the appropriate technical direction.

Speaker #4: And then we've seen the projects that are shut down . And so so I think that number is the 8 million a month , 25 million for the quarter .

John Wasson: I think that number, the $8 million a month, $25 million for the quarter-end revenues, we think is a good number. There's obviously uncertainty around it. As you know, with this administration, there's been a lot of change, but I think we feel pretty good about that number and think that is likely to be the impact we'll see from the government shutdown if it goes all the way to the end of the year. Got it. That's helpful color. Thank you. Just lastly, as I'm still sticking on this. Federal government, I wanted to ask about your commercial energy business, which is a very exciting area, but I'll leave that to others. Just sticking with the federal government or the federal business, as we think about you moving into 2026, we were all thinking about a return to growth.

Speaker #4: And revenues , you know , we think it's a good number . And , you know , there's obviously uncertainty around it . But as you know , with with this administration there's been a lot of change .

Speaker #4: But I think we feel pretty good about that number and think that is likely to be the impact. We'll see from the government shutdown.

Speaker #4: If it goes all the way to the end of the year .

Speaker #6: Got it . That's helpful color . Thank you . And just lastly , as I'm still sticking on this federal government , I wanted to ask about your commercial energy business , which is very exciting area , but I'll leave that to others .

Speaker #6: Just sticking with the federal government or the federal business as we think about you moving into 2026 , you know , we were we were all thinking about , you know , return to growth .

Speaker #6: But I'm wondering , does this shutdown impact things that you were expecting to come in early 2026 , that maybe pushed out now because of the shutdown ?

John Wasson: I'm wondering, does this shutdown impact things that you were expecting to come in early 2026 that may be pushed out now because of the shutdown? Does it cause delays in how the contracting works or anything like that? How should we think about the impact on future work, not necessarily how it's impacting you during the shutdown, but after the shutdown is over? Is there any knock-on effects? Yeah, no. It's a good question. I would say a couple of things. One is, for the work that's been impacted by a shutdown, the $25 million. Typically, in prior shutdowns, once the work comes back, we will do that work. It's a push to the right. If history is any guide, at that foregone revenue, we would recuperate over the remaining life of the contract in future years. We would expect for that to happen again.

Speaker #6: Does it cause delays and how the how the contracting works or anything like that ? How should we think about the impact on , you know , future work ?

Speaker #6: Not necessarily how it's impacting you ? During the shutdown , but after the shutdown is over , is there any knock on effects ?

Speaker #4: Yeah , no , I it's a good question . I mean , I would say a couple of things . One is for the work that's been impacted by shutdown , the 25 million , you know , typically in prior shutdowns , once the work comes back , you know , we will do that work .

Speaker #4: So it's a it's it's a push to the right . You know if history is any guide that that forgone revenue . We would recoup it over the remaining life of the contract .

Speaker #4: You know , in future years . And so we would expect to for that to happen again . And so I do see it as a shift to the right with the impacts we've seen .

John Wasson: I do see it as a shift to the right with the impacts we've seen. I would say also if the shutdown goes to the end of the year, for those clients that we're seeing these impacts, it's certainly going to impact awards and potential modifications. It could have some impact early next year in terms of the level of business if the awards get delayed or the modification still comes quickly. I think that's how we think about it. I think ultimately, I would expect that most of the foregone revenue from the shutdown will be pushed to the right, and we'll get it back over the life of the contract. Understood. Thanks for taking my questions. Thank you. Our next question comes from the line of Tobey Sommer with Truist Securities. Your line is now open. Thanks. Wanted to start with just a follow-up on that shutdown.

Speaker #4: I would say , although also if the shutdown goes through the end of the year for those clients that are seeing these impacts , it's certainly going to impact awards and , you potential modifications .

Speaker #4: And so , you know , it could have some impact early , early next year in terms of . You know , the level of business , if the awards get delayed or the modifications don't come as quickly .

Speaker #4: But but I think that's how we , you know , we think about it , I think ultimately I would expect that , you know , most of the forgone revenue from the shutdown will be pushed to the right and we'll get it back over the life of the contracts .

Speaker #6: Understood . Thanks for taking my questions .

Speaker #7: Sure .

Speaker #2: Thank you . Our next question comes from the of Toby Sommer with Truist . Your line is now open .

Speaker #8: Thanks . I wanted to start with just a just a follow up on that shutdown . You had a pretty good book to bill in the quarter .

John Wasson: You had a pretty good book-to-bill in the quarter. We had been kind of expecting lower than that. I'm curious how those new wins are ramping and if the shutdown is pushing that process off to the right, in particular, of course, for new or takeaway work rather than recompete wins. Thanks. Yeah, I would say, as you know, Tobey, our federal business, we kind of break it into two components. One of it, roughly half of it, is kind of in the IT modernization technology arena. There, I would say that we've the procurement environment. The work we're doing has continued. We haven't seen as significant impacts as we've seen in the portion that's programmatic. I think some of the awards you see in Q4 certainly are in the IT modernization area. We would expect those to ramp, and we expect the modifications to continue.

Speaker #8: We had been kind of expecting lower than that . I'm curious how those new wins are ramping and if the shutdown is is pushing that process off to the right in particular , of course , for for new or takeaway work rather than , you know , Recompete wins .

Speaker #8: Thanks .

Speaker #4: Yeah , I would say , as you know , Toby , our federal business , you know , we kind of break it into two components .

Speaker #4: One of it , roughly half of it is kind of in a the it modernization technology arena there . I would say that , you know , we've procurement environment and the work we're doing is continued .

Speaker #4: We haven't seen , you know , a significant impacts as we've seen in the the course of its programmatic . And so and I think some of the words you see in Q4 certainly are in the it modernization area , we would expect those to ramp and we'd expect , you know , the modifications and to continue .

Speaker #4: So I , I less concerned or would not expect a slowdown or a disruption in the ramp up of those efforts . Where we've seen most of the impacts of the government shutdown is in our programmatic work at Health and Human Services .

John Wasson: I'm less concerned or would not expect a slowdown or disruption in the ramp-up of those efforts. Where we've seen most of the impacts of the government shutdown is in our programmatic work at health and human services. Many of those agencies are impacted by the shutdown. That's also impacted the procurements there. That portion of the business, I think, will take longer to rebound post-shutdown in terms of procurements and plus-ups. That's certainly reflected in how we're thinking about Q4 and the guidance we've given. As we think about returning to growth for next year, I think our view right now is we've clearly indicated we expect to grow in 2026. I would think at least a low single-digit level. Obviously, 58%, 59% of our business is growing quite robustly. We expect that to continue.

Speaker #4: You know , many of those agencies are impacted by the shutdown . That's also impacted the procurements there . So that portion of the business , I think , will will take longer to rebound post shutdown in terms of procurements and plus ups .

Speaker #4: You know , that's certainly reflected in our , you know , how we're thinking about Q4 and guidance we've given . And as we think about returning to growth for next year , you know , I think our our view right now is , you know , we've we've clearly indicated we expect to grow in 2026 .

Speaker #4: And I would think it , you know , at at least a low single digit level . Now , obviously , 58 , 59% of our , our business is growing quite robustly .

Speaker #4: We expect that to continue in terms of federal business , I think we would expect it modernization business . So roughly half to return to growth next year .

John Wasson: In terms of the federal business, I think we would expect our IT modernization business, so roughly half, to return to growth next year. The half that's programmatic will not return to growth until 2027. We'll have tough comps there, and it'll take more time. With that mix, we're confident we can get back to growth for next year. Thank you. Let's switch gears a bit, and maybe we can talk commercial and commercial energy. Which service lines and offerings within your portfolio are experiencing the best demand and sort of superior growth? What, if any, areas are lagging? I understand with such a rapid rate of growth for the collection of them, lagging doesn't necessarily mean you're not achieving fairly good growth. I think it's a good question, Tobey.

Speaker #4: And then the the half is programmatic . You know , will will not return to growth until 2027 . We'll have tougher . We have tough comps .

Speaker #4: There . And it will take more time . But with that mix , you know we're we're confident we can get back to growth for next year .

Speaker #8: Okay. Thank you. Let's switch gears a bit and maybe we can talk commercial and commercial energy. Which service lines and offerings within your portfolio are experiencing the best demand in sort of superior growth?

Speaker #8: And what , if any areas are lagging and understand with such a rapid rate of growth for the collection of . Them , lagging doesn't necessarily mean you're not achieving , you know , fairly good growth ?

Speaker #4: Well , I think I think it's a good question . I think , as you know , our commercial energy business , you know , three quarters , 70 , 75% of business is designing and implementing implementing utility programs .

John Wasson: I think, as you know, our commercial energy business, three quarters, 70%, 75% of that business is designing and implementing utility programs, energy efficiency, electrification, load management, doing the marketing for those programs. We're seeing tremendous growth there, tremendous opportunity. We've been winning new contracts. We've been taking away market share. We've been winning our recompetes. I think with the increased significant demand for electricity, those programs will continue to be a key component. Certainly, the utility program implementation is extraordinarily strong. I would say our kind of the energy advisory business, where we really do more front-end advisory work for utilities on a range of issues from generation to transmission to demand forecasting, demand load management, grid modernization. Many aspects of that business are enjoying very robust growth, given, again, the strong demand for energy. We would expect our energy advisory business to have double-digit growth next year.

Speaker #4: Energy efficiency , dislocation , load management , doing the marketing for those programs . We're seeing tremendous growth there , tremendous opportunity . We've been winning new contracts .

Speaker #4: We've been taking market share . We've been winning our repeats . And I think with this increased significant demand for electricity , those programs will continue to be a key component .

Speaker #4: And so , so the utility program implementation is extraordinarily strong . I would say our kind of the the energy advisory business . So we really do our front end advisory work for utilities on a range of issues from generation to transmission to demand forecasting , demand load load management , grid modernization .

Speaker #4: Many aspects of that business are enjoying very robust growth . Given again , the strong . Strong demand for energy . We would expect our energy advisory business to have double digit growth next year .

Speaker #4: I think the only area that's been challenging is in renewables area , certain components of the work we do around . Certainly offshore wind or implementation of renewables on federal lands .

John Wasson: I think the only area that's been challenging is in the renewables area, certain components of the work we do around certainly offshore wind or implementation of renewables on federal lands. This administration is not supportive of that. There have been some impacts on projects in that area. I have to tell you that in the scheme of our overall energy business, it's pretty de minimis. I think on an annualized basis, the entirety of that business might be up to $10 million a year. We certainly aren't losing a significant portion of it. That is the one area where this administration is not as supportive. Having said that, as I said in my remarks, we also do have key capabilities around key generation assets that this administration does support: natural gas, nuclear, coal. We're seeing opportunities there. Thanks.

Speaker #4: This administration is not supportive of that . So there has been some impacts on projects in that area . But I have to tell you that in the scheme of our overall energy business , it's pretty de minimis .

Speaker #4: I think on an annualized basis , it the entirety of that business might be , you know , up to $10 million a year .

Speaker #4: We certainly are losing a significant portion of it . But , you know , but that is the one area where this administration is , you know , is not as supportive .

Speaker #4: Having said that , as I said in my remarks , we also do have capabilities around key . Key generation assets that this administration does support natural gas , nuclear , coal .

Speaker #4: And so , you know , we're seeing opportunities there .

Speaker #8: Thanks . And then specifically within energy and this is probably somewhere in between commercial and your your government energy business . But you know when the shutdown began , there was news around the Department of Energy canceling some clean energy and infrastructure awards .

John Wasson: Specifically within energy, and this is probably somewhere in between commercial and your government energy business, when the shutdown began, there was news around the Department of Energy canceling some clean energy and infrastructure awards. Is ICF International impacted at all by those kinds of actions that have been taken more recently? No, we haven't. I don't believe we've—I’m not aware of any material. I'm not actually aware of any shutdowns on our DOE contracts. Honestly, Tobey, I think the extent that we saw impacts in DOE was due to contract cancellations around DOE and GSA earlier in the year. The work that remains, I think, is generally continuing, and we haven't seen impacts from a stop work perspective. Thank you. As a reminder, to ask a question, you will need to press star 11 on your telephone.

Speaker #8: It is ICF impacted at all by those kinds of actions that have been .

Speaker #4: I don't .

Speaker #8: Think we've seen more recently .

Speaker #4: No , we haven't . I don't believe we I'm not aware of any material . I'm aware of any any shutdowns on our dough contracts .

Speaker #4: Honestly , Toby , I think the extent that we saw impacts in Doe , it was due to contract cancellations . You know , around Doge and GSA earlier in the year .

Speaker #4: And so the work that remains , I think , is , you know , generally continuing . And we haven't we haven't seen any impact from a stop work perspective .

Speaker #8: Thank you .

Speaker #2: Thank you . As a reminder to ask a question , you will need to press star one one on your telephone . Our next question comes from the line of Mark Reddick with Sidoti .

John Wasson: Our next question comes from the line of Marc Riddick with Sidoti & Company. Your line is now open. Hi. Good evening, everyone. Hi, Marc. I just wanted to add my congratulations to Barry and James. Certainly, Barry, it's been a pleasure working with you and all the best for your retirement. Certainly looking forward to continuing to work with the team going forward. I just wanted to express my gratitude there. Thanks, Marc. I wanted to touch a little bit on the growth areas that we're looking at as we go into next year. I know you're going into planning and the like.

Speaker #2: Your line is now open .

Speaker #9: Hey , good evening everyone .

Speaker #4: Hi , Mark .

Speaker #7: Mark .

Speaker #9: So just wanted to add my congratulations to Barry and James , and certainly Barry . It's been a pleasure working with you and all the best for you for your retirement .

Speaker #9: And and certainly looking forward to continue to working with the team going forward . So I just wanted to to express my gratitude there .

Speaker #5: Thank you .

Speaker #7: Mark . Mark .

Speaker #9: I wanted to touch a little bit on . So the the growth area is that , that we're looking at that as we go into next year .

Speaker #9: And I know , you know , we're you're going into planning and the like . But I was wondering as we look at the non-federal audit areas that are actually growing and doing really well right now , they can we can we sort of maybe talk a little bit about how you feel about your , your bandwidth there , given the growth that you've seen , the growth that , that you could potentially see in the near term , there .

John Wasson: I was wondering, as we look at the non-federal, the areas that are actually growing and doing really well right now, can we maybe talk a little bit about how you feel about your bandwidth there, given the growth that you've seen, the growth that you could potentially see in the near term there, and the type of bandwidth where you are now and maybe other investments in personnel, technology, or the like to be able to extract those opportunities? I would say that we're certainly investing materially in the key growth markets to take full advantage of that. That includes recruiting new talent to help us win and develop the work and bring new skills, investing in technology, software, and leveraging AI to grow those businesses. We're certainly making appropriate investments, and that's where the investment focus is right now.

Speaker #9: And , you know , the type of bandwidth where you are now and maybe other investments in personnel , technology or the like to sort of be able to to , you know , to extract those opportunities .

Speaker #4: You know , I would say that we're certainly investing , you know , materially in the key growth markets to take full advantage of that includes recruiting new talent to help us win and develop the work and bring new skills .

Speaker #4: Investing in technology , the software and , you know , leveraging AI to grow those businesses . And so we're certainly making appropriate investments .

Speaker #4: And that's where the investment focus is right now . You know , you know . primary focus of the investments in ICF . are are in those markets , you know , in terms of recruiting the talent , I think that , you know , we're investing a lot in recruiting and we're able to recruit the talent .

John Wasson: The primary focus of the investments in ICF International are in those markets. In terms of recruiting the talent, I think that we're investing a lot in recruiting, and we're able to recruit the talent. We're able to stay in front of that. I think as we look to next year, we certainly expect double-digit growth across commercial, a combination of commercial, state and local, and international. We've been growing quite robustly in commercial energy. We have a strong recruiting engine there. We're a market leader in these markets, and the talent inside the firm helps us find the best talent outside the firm. I think we'll be able to retain and recruit the talent. I do think we expect, as these international projects continue to ramp up for next year, we'd expect very strong double-digit growth in our international business. We've been working the recruiting for that quite well.

Speaker #4: We're able to stay in front of that . You know , I think as we look to next year , we certainly expect double digit growth across commercial , you know , commercial .

Speaker #4: The combination of commercial state and local and international . You know , we've been doing quite robustly in commercial energy . We have a strong recruiting engine there .

Speaker #4: You know , we're a market leader in these markets . And and the talent inside the firm helps us find the best talent outside .

Speaker #4: And so , you know , I think we'll so I think we can we'll be able to retain that recruit the talent . I do think we expect you know as these international projects we're able to continue to ramp up for next year .

Speaker #4: We'd expect very strong double digit growth in our international business and again , we've been , you know , working the recruiting for that quite well .

Speaker #4: And and I would say the same in state and local . So I think we're you know , we're we're making the appropriate investments .

John Wasson: I would say the same in state and local. I think we're making the appropriate investments. We'll ensure we have the talent. We have a pipeline of candidates, and as the work comes in, we will not have backlogs that we're not able to translate into revenue quickly. We won't let that happen. I think we feel quite good about our ability to translate contract wins into revenue quickly. Okay. Okay. That's helpful. There were, on a couple of occasions within prepared remarks, some commentary around potential for inorganic investments and gas usage prioritization and the like. I know certainly you're going to be addressing that and looking that over again as we go through your planning process. I was wondering maybe if you could take us through what you're seeing out there right now from the acquisition pipeline potential front. Are you seeing much in the way?

Speaker #4: We'll , we'll ensure we have the talent . We have pipeline .

Speaker #7: Of .

Speaker #4: Candidates . And so that's the work comes in . We we will not have backlog that we're not able to translate into revenue quickly .

Speaker #4: We won't let .

Speaker #7: That happen . So .

Speaker #4: I think we feel quite good about .

Speaker #7: Our ability to .

Speaker #4: Translate .

Speaker #7: You know .

Speaker #4: Contract wins into revenue .

Speaker #7: Quickly okay .

Speaker #9: Okay . That's that's helpful . And then there were on a couple of occasions , I guess , within prepared remarks , some commentary around potential for inorganic investments and cash usage prioritization and the like .

Speaker #9: And , and I know certainly you you're going to be addressing that and looking , you know looking that over again as we go through your planning process .

Speaker #9: But I was wondering maybe if you could take us through what you're seeing out there right now from the acquisition pipeline potential front ?

Speaker #9: I mean , are you seeing much in the way , like what is the pipeline look like as far as volume ? We're seeing more and more M&A activity generally , but maybe you can sort of , you know , share your thoughts on what you're seeing as to attractive opportunities and , and valuation levels currently .

John Wasson: What does the pipeline look like as far as volume? We're seeing more and more M&A activity generally, but maybe you can sort of share your thoughts of what you're seeing as to attractive opportunities and evaluation levels currently. I'm not a nice to know that Barry—I'll speak to M&A and Barry can always speak to cash flow. I think in terms of our M&A strategy, I think M&A remains an important component of our overall strategy. As you know, if you look at the history of ICF International, we've certainly been inclusive, and it's been an important part of our overall growth story. I think right now we're quite focused on looking at opportunities in the energy arena that could add scale or add geography or add key capabilities in the core markets we serve across both the advisory business and the program implementation business.

Speaker #4: One another very well speak to M&A and you can always speak to cash flow and you know I think in terms of our M&A strategy , I think M&A remains a important component of our overall strategy .

Speaker #4: As you know , if you look at the history of ICF , we've certainly been acquisitive and and , you know , it's been an important part of our overall growth story , I think right now we're quite focused on looking at opportunities in the energy arena that could add scale or add geography or add key capabilities and or markets we serve , you know , across both the advisory business and the program implementation business .

Speaker #4: And so we're certainly out in the market looking at those and and I think that would be if we could find the appropriate opportunity with the right strategic fit , the right cultural fit , you know , we would we would certainly take a hard look at that .

John Wasson: We're certainly out in the market looking at those. I think that would be, if we could find the appropriate opportunity with the right strategic fit and the right cultural fit, we would certainly take a hard look at that. I think with everything going on in the energy arena, the valuations are certainly fulsome, but we're looking there. I think we've also looked at opportunities around disaster recovery and infrastructure-related work in state and local markets. I think there are opportunities out there in those markets. In the federal market, I think we're less likely to do something. I think it remains a challenging market. The valuations are challenging. I think we certainly are looking at opportunities in IT modernization services, and so I wouldn't rule that out, but I think the federal market brings obviously challenges given the state of that market and the uncertainty in it.

Speaker #4: I mean , I think with everything going on in the energy arena , the valuations are certainly fulsome . But but we're we're looking there .

Speaker #4: I think , and we've also looked at opportunities around disaster recovery and infrastructure related work , state and local markets , you know , and I mean , there are opportunities out there in those markets .

Speaker #4: And the federal market . We've , you know , I think we're less likely to do something . I mean , I think it's remains a challenging market .

Speaker #4: The valuations are challenging . I think we certainly are looking at opportunities in it . Mod . And so , you know , I wouldn't rule that out .

Speaker #4: But I think the federal market brings obviously challenges given the that market and the uncertainty and and so , you know , I think our primary focus is around energy and around disaster management .

Speaker #4: state of

John Wasson: I think our primary focus is around energy and around disaster management and infrastructure. I guess, Barry, do you want to talk about the broader investment? Sure. I would say, as I noted in my remarks, that. We continue to focus on paying down debt. Expectation is that from a leverage position, we'll be below 2x levered at year-end. That would provide us with capacity to go after various assets that we think are appropriate. We'll continue to stay focused on that and pay down the debt as we've done in the past and be looking at 2026 to see if we can put some of that dry powder to use. Okay. Excellent. Thank you and congratulations again. Thank you. Thank you. Our next question comes from the line of Kevin Steinke with Barrington Research. Your line is now open. Great. Thank you.

Speaker #4: And infrastructure . I guess I'll let you you go and talk about the broader investment .

Speaker #5: I would say , as I noted in my remarks , that we continue to focus on paying down debt . You know , expectations is that from a leverage position , we'll

Speaker #5: below two times levered , you know , at year end . And that would provide us with , you know , you know , capacity to , you know , go after various assets .

Speaker #5: You know that we think are appropriate . So it will continue to stay focused on that , you know , and and pay down the debt as we've we've done in the past .

Speaker #5: And , you know , be looking , you know , at 2020 to see if we can put some of that that dry powder to use .

Speaker #9: Okay . Excellent . And thank you . And congratulations again .

Speaker #10: Thank you .

Speaker #2: Thank you . Our next question comes from the line of Kevin Steinke with Barrington Research Associates . Your line is now open .

Speaker #11: Great . Thank you . So you mentioned when talking about commercial energy business obviously you're winning new business there and you're taking market share .

John Wasson: You mentioned when talking about the commercial energy business, obviously you're winning new business there and you're taking market share. I was wondering if there's any way you could kind of frame the size, the extent of the market opportunity there, maybe in terms of the continued opportunity to win new business and take market share, maybe just either in terms of the utilities you might not be working with or states you haven't penetrated or the opportunity to continue penetrating and winning additional business with existing clients. I think we still think there's material opportunities for us. There will be new opportunities. There will be opportunities for takeaways and takeaway business from competitors. Obviously, as we win re-companies, we hope we can expand the scope of those. I think it's—I mean, in terms of the size of the market, this market is north of $2 billion.

Speaker #11: I was wondering if there's any way you could kind of frame the , you know , the size of the extent of the market opportunity there .

Speaker #11: Maybe in terms of the continued opportunity to win new business and take market share , maybe just either in terms of the utilities , you might not be working with or , you know , states you haven't penetrated or the opportunity to continue penetrating and winning additional business with existing clients .

Speaker #4: And , you know , I think that I think we still think there's material opportunities for us to . There will be new opportunities .

Speaker #4: There will be opportunities for takeaways and and takeaway business from competitors and , you know , obviously , as we win , we hope we can expand the scope of those .

Speaker #4: You know I think it's I mean , in terms of the the market , and this market is north of $2 billion . You know , I don't think we're constrained by the size of the market .

John Wasson: I don't think we're constrained by the size of the market. I think we're strongest in residential and commercial energy efficiency. I think our market share is perhaps in the 10% to 15% range. I don't think we're constrained by that. I think our track record is quite strong on being able to compete effectively for this work and deliver integrated solutions. I don't think we're constrained by the size of the market or our market share. I think there's certainly material additional opportunity for us. Okay. Great. Thanks. On your second quarter call, you had also, when talking about the guidance framework for 2025, you had mentioned, given the slowdown.

Speaker #4: You know , I think we're we're strongest in residential and commercial energy efficiency . You know , I think our market share is perhaps in the 15% , 10 to 15% range .

Speaker #4: I don't think we're constrained by that . And so and I think our track record is quite strong on . You know , being able to compete effectively for this work and deliver integrated solutions .

Speaker #4: And so so I don't I don't think we're I , I don't think we're constrained by the size of the market or , our market share .

Speaker #4: I think there's certainly material opportunity for us .

Speaker #11: Okay , great . Thanks . And on your second quarter call , you had also when talking about the guidance framework for 2025 , you had mentioned given the slowdown in now , you know , in the pace of contract cancellations with the federal government that , you know , you probably wouldn't be at the the low end of that guidance framework is that still the case , given that you haven't seen any more cancellations in the federal arena or kind of just the shutdown ?

Lynn Morgen: Now that, you know, in the pace of contract cancellations with the federal government, you probably wouldn't be at the low end of that guidance framework. Is that still the case, given that you haven't seen any more cancellations in the federal arena, or does the shutdown make that kind of full range still within the realm of possibility?

Speaker #11: Make that kind of full range still within the realm of possibility ?

Speaker #4: You know , I would say that obviously when we gave , as I said in my remarks , when we gave that range at the beginning of the year , it did not assume a federal government shutdown .

Lauren Cannon: I would say that, obviously, when we gave—as I said in my remarks—when we gave that range at the beginning of the year, it did not assume a federal government shutdown. I think—and certainly in our second protocol, we indicated we did not be near the maximum, maximum 10% on revenues. Let me say it this way. I think prior to the government shutting down, and prior to the government shutdown, our expectation was—and I think we had confidence that from a revenue perspective, we'd be down 6% on the year, in that range, without a government shutdown. We were progressing on that and felt that confidence through a good part of Q3 until we hit the point where it became clear that the government shutdown was quite likely.

Speaker #4: And and , you know , I think and certainly in our second recall , we we indicated we , you .

Speaker #12: Know , the national .

Speaker #4: Was 10% on revenues . I think let me say it this way . I think . Prior to the government shutting down , you know , and , you know , and prior to the government shutdown , I think our expectation and our expectation was and I think we had confidence from a revenue perspective , we'd be down 6% on the year in that range without a government shutdown .

Speaker #4: And we were progressing on that and felt that confidence through , you know , through a good part of Q3 until we hit the point where it became clear that the government shutdown was quite likely and we we began to see impacts prior to the shutdown in terms of the level of procurement and .

Lauren Cannon: We began to see impacts prior to the shutdown in terms of the level of procurement and certainly in our health and human services arena. I think with the shutdown now, we will be towards the lower end of the range. I think Barry gave you guidance on how to do that. Certainly, the fact that the federal government shutdown and the magnitude of the revenue and profit impacts will move us towards the lower end of the range. I just do want to say we are quite proud of the fact that, with the kind of range we gave, which was without a government shutdown, we've been able to manage the business for the first nine months of the year, stay firmly within that range, maintain our profitability at levels prior to this administration. Now with the government shutdown, we can maintain that range.

Speaker #4: the pace can certainly in our health and human services arena . I think with the shutdown now , you know , I think we will be .

Speaker #4: You know , towards the lower than the range . And we've given you , I think Barry gave you guidance on how to do that , but certainly the the , the , federal government shutdown and the magnitude of the revenue and profit impacts will move us towards the lower end of the range .

Speaker #4: I just do want to say we are quite proud of the fact that we , with , with our guidance range we gave , which was without a government shutdown .

Speaker #4: We've been able to manage the business for the first time . Once the year to stay firmly within that range , maintain our profitability .

Speaker #4: You know , at at levels prior to this administration and then now with the government shutdown , you know , we can we can maintain that range .

Speaker #4: Obviously , we'll move . It will have an impact , but we'll we'll stay in that range . And I think that's quite a .

Lauren Cannon: Obviously, it will have an impact, but we'll stay in that range. I think that's quite something that I feel quite good about and quite proud of. When we gave that range, our initial range, very early in February, there was a lot of interest in people for us to kind of quantify what was the maximum downside risk of the new administration, of DOGE activities, GSA activities, changes in procurement, federal employees leaving the government. We gave that guidance very early, and it stood the test of time, and we've managed to it. I think that— I'm proud of that. I think now we have this government shutdown. We're managing that very carefully. We have a playbook to do it. We'll look at the results, and we'll stay in. That range will hold with a government shutdown.

Speaker #4: Quite something that I feel quite , quite good about it . Quite proud of it . I mean I think it's you know , we gave that , we gave that range our initial range very early in February .

Speaker #4: There was a lot of interest from people for us to try to quantify what was the maximum downside risk of the new administration of Doge activities.

Speaker #4: GSA activities , changes in procurement . You know , federal employees leaving the government . So we gave that guidance very early , and it stood the test of time .

Speaker #4: And we've managed to it . And so , you know , I think that so I'm proud of that . And then I think now we have this government shutdown .

Speaker #4: We're managing that very carefully . We have a playbook to do it . And we'll look at the results that will stay in the range .

Speaker #4: That range will hold with a government shutdown and we'll manage our profitability and support of the business outside of federal . We'll continue to grow a double digit .

Lauren Cannon: We'll manage our profitability, and the part of the business outside of federal will continue to grow double-digit. I know that's a long-winded answer to your question, Kevin, but we'll certainly be in the range now with this government shutdown. It will have some impact, temporary impact. I do think that the revenues will come back in 2020 over the life of the contracts, whether that's in the next year or 18 months. That's kind of how I see the guidance. We do feel good about how we've managed through all this.

Speaker #4: And so so I know that's a long winded answer to your question of Kevin , but , you know , we'll certainly be in the range now with this government shutdown .

Speaker #4: It will have some impact temporary impact . I do think that the revenues will come back in 20 over the life of the contracts .

Speaker #4: Whether that's in the next year or 18 months and , you know , we're we we and so we so that's I guess that's kind of how I see the guidance and we do we do feel good about how we managed through all this .

Speaker #11: Yes . Thank you . I appreciate that . Very helpful . And yeah , nice job on you know , forecasting that out with so much uncertainty .

John Wasson: Yes, thank you. I appreciate that. Very helpful. Yeah, nice job on, you know, forecasting that out, with so much uncertainty. I guess it's my last question. You know, with James taking on the CFO role, is that how you see that going forward as kind of a more permanent arrangement with both a dual COO/CFO role? Or would you eventually—

Speaker #11: But I guess my last question , you know , with James taking on the CFO role , is that how you see that going forward is kind of a more permanent arrangement with both a dual a dual CEO , CFO role ?

Speaker #11: Or would you eventually .

Speaker #10: Well , I think .

Lauren Cannon: I would say that, I'd say a couple of things. One is, as you know, James was CFO for eight or nine years in his first eight or nine years at ICF International. He then transitioned into the COO role for the last five years, five or six years. He's done both those roles. I think he is in some ways uniquely qualified to do both those roles. Given where we are and the size and scale of the firm, the maturity of the firm, and the strength of the team behind Barry, I think it makes sense to combine this. James Morgan will be Chief Operating and Financial Officer. Whether that title remains or we change it down the road, I haven't got that far. I'm just pleased James can take on this role.

Speaker #4: I would say that I'd say a couple of things . One is , I mean , I think , as you know , James was see , for 8 or 9 years in his first 8 or 9 years at ICF , he then transitioned into the CEO role for the last five years , 5 or 6 years .

Speaker #4: And so he's done both those roles . I think he's you is in some ways uniquely qualified to do both those roles . And I think given where we are and and the size and scale of the firm , the maturity of the firm and the strength of the team behind Barry , you know , I think it makes sense to combine this .

Speaker #4: So James will be chief operating and financial officer and you know , whether that remains or we change it down the road . I , I haven't got that far .

Speaker #4: I'm just pleased James can take on this role. At the same time, we also asked Anne Choate, who's done a phenomenal job growing our energy business.

Lauren Cannon: At the same time, we're also asking Ann Choate, who's done a phenomenal job growing our energy business. She's been at ICF International for 30 years. She's going to take on the role of managing our operating groups and our business development function, which has been reporting to me. I think she'll bring tremendous focus on translating our strategy into growth, driving growth, managing the—making sure our clients are delighted with our work, and driving business development. I think it's great opportunities for both of them. It will allow me to focus on strategy in a time of significant change, M&A, developing the next generation of leaders, and representing ICF International externally. I think that's how I see it. I think we're—I'm just pleased we have the bench here to do this.

Speaker #4: She's been at ICF for 30 years . She's going to take on the role of managing our operating groups and our business development function , which has been reporting to me .

Speaker #4: But I you know , I think she'll bring a tremendous focus on translating our strategy into growth , driving growth . You know , managing the making sure we , our clients are , you delighted with our work and driving business development .

Speaker #4: And so I think it's great opportunities for both of them . And it will allow me to focus on , you know , strategy and a time of significant change .

Speaker #4: M&A , you know , developing the next generation of leaders and and representing ICF externally . And so I think that's how I see it .

Speaker #4: And I think we're you know , I think it's I'm just pleased we have the bench here to do this . And I think one of the things we've done really well over the years is provide opportunities for folks to grow their career here at ICF .

Lauren Cannon: I think one of the things we've done really well over the years is provide opportunities for folks to grow their career at ICF International. I think this is another indication. Ann's promotion has a ripple effect in our energy business, which will give a number of key leaders their additional responsibilities, which I'm really pleased to do. We'll certainly continue to do that as we go forward as we grow.

Speaker #4: And this is another indication . And Anne's promotion has a ripple effect in our energy business , which we'll give a number of key leaders there .

Speaker #4: Additional responsibilities , which I'm really pleased to do . And and we'll certainly continue to do that as we go forward , as we grow .

Speaker #11: Thank you . Okay , good . Yep .

Operator: Thank you.

John Wasson: Okay. Good. Yep.

Speaker #2: Excuse me. Go ahead.

Operator: Excuse me. Go ahead.

Speaker #11: No , I just wanted to add , you know , it's been a pleasure working with you , Barry . And and best wishes for your retirement .

John Wasson: I just wanted to add, you know, it's been a pleasure working with you, Barry. Best wishes for your retirement.

Speaker #5: Thank you . Kevin . Likewise .

Lauren Cannon: Thank you, Kevin. Likewise.

Speaker #2: Thank you . I'm showing no further questions at this time . I would now like to turn it back to John Wasson for closing remarks .

Operator: Thank you. I'm showing no further questions at this time. I would now like to turn it back to John Wasson for closing remarks.

Speaker #4: Okay . Well , thanks , everybody , for participating in today's call and we look forward to connecting it up . Coming conference events with you .

Lauren Cannon: Okay. Thank you, everybody, for participating in today's call. We look forward to connecting at upcoming conference events with you. Thank you.

Speaker #4: Thank you .

Operator: Thank you for your participation in today's conference. This does conclude the program. You may now disconnect.