MEL #034 | From Consulting Ranks to Innovation Leader through Holistic Problem-Solving with Christopher Roberts

In this episode, I speak with Chris Roberts, a fractional Chief Digital Officer and Founder of Intevate Labs, where he helps companies translate strategy into working systems using AI-enabled automation, commerce, and data platforms. Chris discovered his engineering aptitude early, receiving encouragement from teachers for his math and science skills. After earning a mechanical engineering degree from MIT, he pursued management consulting, blending engineering problem-solving with process and systems improvement, for major manufacturing and technology clients. His career evolved into innovation strategy, leading him to found Intevate Labs. In our leadership discussion, Chris talks about how he had to lead professionals twice his age with decades more industry experience. He learned that listening, understanding others' concerns, and effective communication are critical to overcoming resistance and fostering collaboration. Chris encourages engineers to focus on improving emotional intelligence, especially listening, reading the room and understanding motivations as it enhances leadership effectiveness and personal relationships. He stresses seeking candid feedback from trusted mentors to accelerate growth. Explore the full episode summary, including guest bio, key takeaways, transcript, and recommended resources at https://drangeliqueadams.com/podcast/