Comeback Stories Series: Mike Bowman

Careers aren’t always linear. Sometimes, the path forward includes finding your way back. In our Comeback Stories series, we spotlight employees who returned to The Building People and share what inspired them to come back.

In this edition, we’re featuring Mike Bowman, Senior Strategic Capture Manager, who recently returned to The Building People after spending time away. In this Q&A, Mike shares what first drew him to TBP, the experiences he gained while exploring new opportunities, and what ultimately led him back.

Let’s start with you—what’s your role at TBP and what does your day-to-day look like?

I’m a Senior Strategic Capture Manager at The Building People. On a day-to-day basis, I evaluate opportunities across our Integrated Facilities Management (IFM) business line, engage with partners on potential pursuits, and help position the company to be competitive. I also lead targeted capture efforts, working closely with stakeholders in delivery, pricing, and proposals to shape and execute winning strategies.

What originally brought you to TBP the first time around?

I was initially drawn to The Building People because of its leadership, clear vision, and strong culture. What’s been most impressive is how much of that core identity has stayed intact over the years.

You spent some time away—what were you up to during that chapter?

I spent about five years at Deloitte Consulting, where I managed large-scale, strategic pursuits for their commercial practice. My work primarily focused on technology consulting engagements for Fortune 500 clients, though both the service offerings and client industries varied widely. It was a great environment to learn and gain exposure across many areas, and it played a meaningful role in expanding and strengthening my skill set.

What did you enjoy or learn most from that experience?

What I enjoyed most was learning how Fortune 500 companies buy large-scale services. In many ways, the process wasn’t all that different from how the federal government approaches procurement, but there was significantly more flexibility. That allowed for more creativity in how we positioned solutions and presented information, and I enjoyed thinking outside the box about how to best tell our story and sell our value.

While you were away, was there anything you found yourself missing about TBP?

I built strong relationships with the team during my first time at TBP, and I genuinely missed that while I was away. This is a special place. It is full of people who show up with purpose and a real commitment to one another. I missed the culture, the camaraderie, and the feeling that the work I was doing truly made an impact.

What sparked the idea (or decision) to come back?

I had always stayed in touch with Lawrence Melton, occasionally exchanging text messages, and I continued to follow TBP’s growth closely. This is an exciting place to work. There aren’t many opportunities to join a company at this stage of maturity with such a bright future ahead. Ultimately, after reconnecting with Lawrence, Shawn Morgal, Frank Santella, Jamie Kerner, Saima Malik, and others, it was clear to me that this was where I wanted to be.

Now that you’re back, what has stood out to you the most?

What’s stood out most is that the growth hasn’t slowed down at all. The future feels incredibly promising, and we have a team of dedicated, talented people who truly care about what they’re building together.

What’s been your favorite part about being back so far?

One of my favorite parts of being back has been watching the growth and development of our younger employees and the next generation of leaders. The experiences they’re gaining and the mentorship they’re receiving have honestly made me a little envious. The Building People does an exceptional job of developing young talent and giving people a strong foundation for success, no matter where their career path ultimately leads.

For someone who’s never worked here, how would you describe TBP and the culture?

This is a place where people are deeply committed to one another, to excellence, to transparency, and to winning the right way. The culture is grounded in trust, accountability, and a shared drive to do meaningful work while supporting each other along the way.