Cherry Bekaert: Government Contractors Guidance

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Sep 2025

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Cherry Bekaert’s Government Contractors podcasts feature discussions on trends, compliance matters and best practices to guide you forward.

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September 15, 202539 min

CMMC Compliance Under 48 CFR Rollout

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert’s GovCon podcast, Neal Beggan is joined by cybersecurity professionals Steven Ursillo and Brian Kirk for a comprehensive deep dive into the current state of Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) compliance. They discuss how 48 CFR will reshape the enforcement of cybersecurity requirements in government contracts. This episode breaks down what the 48 CFR rule means, how it connects to DFARS and 32 CFR, and what contractors should be doing now to stay ahead of the rollout. Listen to learn more about: The definition of CMMC and why it matters An overview of CFR 48 CFR 48 timeline and rollout Potential readiness and compliance challenges and how to overcome them Action items to prepare for CFR 48 The conversation includes: 0:37 – Introduction to CMMC: What It Is and Why It Matters 4:32 – Finalization of the 48 CFR Rule 12:50 – Challenges, Obstacles & Pain Points in Readiness and Certification 27:16 – Operational Challenges, GRC Tools and Assessment Readiness Tips 32:19 – Ecosystem Growth & Capacity 35:22 – Key Takeaways & Action Items 37:42 – Upcoming Events & Learning Opportunities POCs Steve Ursillo, Partner Brian Kirk, Senior Manager Related Insights: Article | DoD CMMC Requirements: A Guide for Defense Contractors Article | Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC): Compliance Process & FAQs View all Government Contracting Podcasts

July 23, 202515 min

Government Contracting Joint Ventures Explained

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert’s GovCon Podcast, Advisory Managing Director Michael Cippel and Senior Audit Manager Sarah Tucker explore the foundational principles and nuanced challenges of joint ventures (JVs) within the government contracting sector. Tune in to learn about: ► Definition and Structure of JVs ► Strategic Benefits of JVs ► Types of JVs ► Pros and Cons of JVs ► Role of the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Mentor-Protégé Program ► Accounting for JVs ► How Cherry Bekaert can assist with JV setup, tax structuring, accounting systems and ongoing compliance Whether you're exploring a JV for the first time or looking to refine your current structure, Cherry Bekaert professionals are here to help. Let our team support you in building a tailored JV that’s not only compliant but strategically sound. View all Government Contracting Podcasts

February 24, 202515 min

Accounting Manager vs. Controller vs. CFO Explained

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert’s Government Contracting podcast, host Jonathan Reid, Director, is joined by Mike Cippel, Managing Director, to discuss the job differences between accounting managers, controllers and chief financial officers (CFO). Tune in to learn more about: The definition of an accounting manager, controller and CFO Key differences between the three rolls Responsibilities expected in these roles Requirement to hold the positions What type of work environment to expect Skills needed to succeed in each role Cherry Bekaert’s team of government contracting consultants has significant experience in outsourced accounting solutions. Our professionals provide regular updates, thought leadership, current and future state consulting, change management advisory and ready to stand up services. If you have any questions specific to your situation, our government contracting and tax consultants are here to discuss solutions tailored to you. Contact us. View all Government Contracting Podcasts

January 16, 202516 min

Project Cost & Tax Considerations for Government Contractors

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert’s Government Contracting podcast, we discuss what to consider when planning the cost of a project. Eric Poppe , a Managing Director in the Government Contracting Industry practice, is joined by Jonathan Reid , a Director in Outsourced Accounting Services. Tune in to learn more about: What to expect when reporting cost Impact revenue recognition on the cost of a project Tax impacts Financial reporting considerations Compliance requirements Setting up a project for joint venture Companies who aren’t in government but work with Government Contractors Cherry Bekaert’s team of government contracting professionals have significant experience in accounting and reporting. As more guidance comes forth, we are here to provide regular updates and thought leadership to guide your journey forward. If you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert is here to discuss solutions tailored for you. Contact us. View all Government Contracting Podcasts

December 17, 202412 min

Forward Pricing Rates: Key Benefits Explained

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert’s Government Contracting podcast, host Jeff Annessa , a Senior Manager in the Firm’s Government Contracting practice, is joined by Jade Casey , a director in the Firm’s Government Contracting Services group. Jeff spent more than 13 years working with the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) and brings valuable experience to their discussion on forward pricing rates and their benefits. Tune in to learn more about: An overview of forward pricing rates How forward pricing rates differ from provisional billing rates The forward pricing rates proposal process Difference between a recommendation (FPRR) and an agreement (FPRA) The forward pricing rate proposal adequacy checklist for contractors Benefits of sound forward pricing rates Cherry Bekaert’s team of government contracting professionals have significant experience in forward pricing rates. As more guidance comes forth, we are here to provide regular updates, and thought leadership to guide your journey forward. If you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert is here to discuss solutions tailored for you. Contact us. View all Government Contracting Podcasts

December 3, 20248 min

Effective Deltek Costpoint Tips for Businesses

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert’s Government Contracting podcast, Romain Robveille, Advisory Services Director, is joined by Justin Pell, Senior Manager, for an overview of the Deltek Costpoint software and how to get the most out of this system. Tune in to learn more about: Effective uses of Deltek Costpoint for businesses Issues with current Costpoint uses and leadership challenges How changes in leadership can affect system and accounting efficiencies Areas companies need to consider to make the most of Deltek Costpoint Benefits of a system assessment for organizations using Deltek Costpoint Cherry Bekaert’s team of government contracting professionals have significant experience with Deltek Costpoint. As more guidance comes forth, we are here to provide regular updates and thought leadership to guide your journey forward. If you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert is here to discuss solutions tailored for you. Contact us. View all Government Contracting Podcasts

November 29, 202418 min

Unanet Key Features and Benefits Overview

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert’s Government Contracting podcast, host and Advisory Services Manager Shaydah Naraghi is joined by Advisory Services Senior Manager Christine DeYuliis to discuss how Unanet could help guide your business forward. Tune in to learn more about: How Unanet got its name How long it typically takes employees to adopt time and expense functionality in Unanet The recommended company size needed to utilize Unanet How Unanet supports growth in a company How Unanet supports DCAA and FAR compliance The ease of standard and analytics reporting Additional resources available during and after implementation Cherry Bekaert’s team of government contracting professionals has significant knowledge and experience with Unanet. As more guidance comes forth, we are here to provide regular updates and thought leadership to guide your journey forward. If you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert is here to discuss solutions tailored to you. View all Government Contracting Podcasts

November 19, 202418 min

Government Contracting: Subcontractor Administration Tips

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert’s Government Contracting podcast, host and Government Contractor Services Director Brendan Halloran leverages his extensive knowledge and experience in the government contracting space. With a background as a Divisional Administrative Contracting Officer (DACO) at the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), Brendon offers valuable insights alongside Advisory Services Director Lynnette Leidwinger . Together, they discuss how subcontractor administration can be beneficial to a company’s success. Tune in to find out about: The definition of Subcontracting Flow downs Teaming arrangements Compliance considerations The importance of flow-down clauses How teaming arrangements can be a good tool for contractors Compliance considerations Circumstances in which a contractor’s compliance gets reviewed Key takeaways for hiring a subcontractor Cherry Bekaert’s team of government contracting consultants have significant experience in subcontracting administration and can help your growing government contracting business navigate the challenges. If you have any questions specific to your situation, our consultants are available to discuss your situation with you. View all Government Contracting Podcasts

November 13, 202422 min

Government Contractor Financial Planning Tips for 2025

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert’s Government Contracting podcast, Mike Cippel , a Managing Director in the Firm’s Outsourced Accounting Advisory practice, is joined by Irwin Kaplan , Director, to discuss how government contractors can begin to plan for next year. They cover the ideal timeframe for contractors to start preparing, as well as key planning considerations. Tune in to learn more about vital elements of year-end planning, including: Budgeting Contract Waterfall Cash Forecasting Key Measures: Monthly Tracking and Reporting Cherry Bekaert’s team of government contracting professionals have significant experience with next-year and year-end planning for government contractors. As more guidance comes forth, we are here to provide regular updates and thought leadership to guide your journey forward. If you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert is here to discuss solutions tailored to you. Contact us. View all Government Contracting Podcasts

September 10, 202412 min

Outsourcing Do’s, Don’ts and Pitfalls for Government Contractors

In this episode of Cherry Bekaert’s Government Contracting podcast, we discuss the do’s, don’ts and pitfalls of outsourced accounting. Host Eric Poppe , a Managing Director in the Government Contracting Industry practice, is joined by Jonathan Reid, a Director in Outsourced Accounting Services. Tune in to learn more about: How outsourced accounting helps government contractors Differences between bookkeeping and outsourced accounting Situations in which government contractors need accounting help How to make a smooth transition into outsourcing accounting needs Tips for forming a positive relationship with an outsourcing firm Pitfalls a company should avoid before getting into an outsourcing relationship Questions you should ask during the interview process Cherry Bekaert’s team of government contracting professionals have significant experience in outsourced accounting. As more guidance comes forth, we are here to provide regular updates and thought leadership to guide your journey forward. If you have any questions specific to your situation, Cherry Bekaert is here to discuss solutions tailored for you. Contact us. Related Guidance Podcast: How to Get the Most Out of Your Outsourcing Firm Article: Outsourced Accounting Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) View all Government Contracting Podcasts