Fort Belvoir, Va. –
The European Branch Office, Saudi Arabia Suboffice, recently identified $8.5 million in questioned costs on proposed amounts for unsettled flexibly priced contract reimbursements. Auditors Yousef Traish, Tarek Ali, James Rupert and Poppy Greer played an instrumental role in the audit’s success. Their work earned praise from the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) Europe and helped identify millions in potential government savings. The team uncovered significant issues throughout the audit including compensation exceeding the allowable limit, duplicated bonus expenses, and other unallowable costs and missing funds.
Yousef, Tarek, James and Poppy worked across time zones and countries to remain engaged in weekly negotiations throughout the audit. This work and dedication to provide exceptional and accurate financial oversight led to timely and impactful findings that safeguarded the government's interests, and promoted the responsible stewardship of funds. DCMA praised the entire team and highlighted Yousef and Tarek’s exceptional support during the audit process and the follow-up. Yousef and Tarek also received recognition for their continued commitment to delivering quality results for the program, sharing, “The Saudi-Arabia Sub Office team, Tarek and Yousef, are the most professional auditing or finance team I have dealt with in my entire career. They are incredibly capable, intelligent and helpful.” Additionally, the team’s vital contribution and support continued throughout Rule 4 Armed Services Board of Contract Appeals (ASBCA). The team provided documentation in support of the contract dispute throughout the Rule 4 ASBCA process, earning high praise from the contracting officer:
“Mr. Traish and Mr. Ali’s dedication, work ethic, and depth of knowledge shone bright during this month-long effort in support of a Rule 4 ASBCA. Their commitment to support DCMA’s mission was above and beyond our expectations are we are truly grateful. Mr. Traish and Mr. Ali’s professionalism and contributions reflect the highest values for the DoD, and we are proud to have them on our team!”
Tarek echoed these sentiments, adding, “My team’s communication and coordination are what made us successful. There were numerous unplanned external obstacles that came about during the audit, but my team stayed upbeat through it all. This success would not have been possible without such a supportive and cohesive group.”