I’m sure the rank and file know nothing of any of any of this. They’re pure as the driven snow.
I remember those meetings when the retired guy, now an employee of XYZ government conractor would bring his new boss in and try to sell his new employer as worthy.
I had to hold the meeting because the Section Chief set it up. I could tell what they were wanting was a sole source contract written specifically for them because the guy at the table was a good guy, retired from that agency.
I could explain how the contracts were awarded, but what I couldn't say is I am offended that you would come in here and ask me to ignore all the rules, to give your new company a contact just because you used to work here. If anything, it is the reason why we might never do business with you.
I saw too much of this in Government Service. The old quid pro quo in defiance of contract law and regs.