From DC, Baltimore, Orlando, Las Vegas & Denver

Meet Adam Chen

I turn ideas into working businesses, and I help the people behind them grow.

Right now I'm growing early-stage companies.building a stealth startup focused on AI adoption.meeting founders worth backing at 1752vc.talking with people who change things from the inside.writing, designing, and shooting.training for the next start line.

Portrait of Adam Chen
20yrs
across tech, finance, hospitality, and government
6books
one written, five illustrated
30talks & episodes
podcasts, webinars, and interviews

Now

Write. Work out. Build.

Most days start the same way. I write first, then I train. Then I put my energy into one of three things I'm building. Done fast beats perfect: I ship something useful, then make it better with feedback.

  1. 01WriteClear thinking before anyone else's agenda.
  2. 02Work outThe habit that keeps the rest of the day honest.
  3. 03BuildSplit across three ventures, one at a time.

03 Build Each day, one of three gets my full focus.

03A Fractional growth

Measured Transformation

I embed with nonprofits, SMBs, and startups as a fractional commercial leader. Together we find what sells, turn sales into scalable system, and hire the team that runs it.

measuredtransformation.com

03B Product

Stealth startup

Focused on AI adoption.

In stealth

03C Venture

1752vc - Starting in Jan. 27'

Venture Fellow. I meet founders early, make introductions, and back people who have what it takes. Twenty years of operating gives me a useful lens on what successful teams look like.

1752.vc

Path

Twenty years. Five industries. One thread.

I've worked in IT, finance, marketing & sales, hospitality, and federal government contracting. The thread is the same in each: see the problem from the other person's side, connect things that don't look connected, and lead people through the change.

  • Change management
  • Go-to-market
  • RevOps
  • Technology selection & RFPs
  • Branding & design
  • Facilitation & speaking
  • AI adoption
  • Photography & video

MBA Johns Hopkins Carey Business School

BS Full Sail University

Giving back

  • Former Co-chair, Emerging Leaders BoardAmerican Diabetes Association
  • Former Co-chair, Corporate Development CommitteeAmerican Diabetes Association
  • Former MentorAmerican Marketing Association
  • Former VolunteerBoys Hope Girls Hope
  • VolunteerVolunteers for Outdoor Colorado
  1. 2024-Now

    Founder & Principal · Measured Transformation

    Embedded fractional commercial leader for early-stage tech founders.

  2. Jan. 27'

    Venture Fellow · 1752vc

    Sourcing and supporting early-stage founders.

  3. 2025–26

    Chief Revenue Officer · FinStrat Management

    Led revenue for a finance and strategy firm serving startups and their investors.

  4. 2023–24

    Co-host · The Innovation Agility Podcast

    Co-hosted the Intrapreneurs track with Greg Kihlström and Bonnie Habyan.

  5. 2023–24

    President · AmenityLinc

    Ran the PropTech arm of The Amenity Collective. Grew average contract size 6×, lifted renewals from 20% to 90%, and doubled total sites.

  6. 2022

    Chief Marketing Officer · The Amenity Collective

    National marketing for five business units across 35+ offices. Rebranded eight acquired companies and rolled out Marketing Cloud to three of them.

  7. 2020–21

    Chief Information Officer · American Pool

    Replaced legacy on-premise systems with cloud software, grew IT from 3 to 29 people, kept a remote workforce running through COVID, and led the company through a ransomware attack.

  8. 2019–20

    Senior Manager, Digital Strategy & Experience · TEKsystems

    Positioned Global Services apart from staffing, rebuilt the global website in Sitecore with translations, and launched the first podcast sponsorship series.

  9. 2014–18

    Senior Digital Strategist · Brown Advisory

    Rolled out sales enablement for every Private Client portfolio manager, rebuilt the global website, and produced the annual reports, from plan to photography.

  10. 2013–14

    Senior Project Manager · Planit Advertising

    Accounts, RFPs, and web builds, including My Little Bird.

  11. 2009–13

    Deputy Program Manager · NASA Communications Support Service Center

    Helped rebid and win a ~$25M contract. Exhibits, e-books, video, and web; a NASA Customer Service Group Award and multiple Communicator Awards.

  12. 2007–09

    Senior Web Developer and Staff Photographer · Pure Management Group

    Web development and event photography for Pure Management Group's Las Vegas nightlife and hospitality venues.

  13. 2006–07

    Founder & Creative Director · Uplink New Media

    Web design, application development, and event photography. Focused on early e-commerce businesses.

Voices

In their words.

Recommendations from people who've reported to me, worked beside me, and hired me.

All on LinkedIn
  • Arguably the best boss I ever had.

    Read the full recommendation

    Adam is a rare digital 'Renaissance man'—a full-stack marcom professional who can tackle any facet of building a marketing machine, from strategy to implementation to technical integration. When I first started working with Adam, he was acting as both CTO and CMO of a large collective of companies, covering the responsibilities and expertise of both roles. That says a lot about his knowledge base, capabilities, and work ethic.

    Working with Adam is a pleasure. He's an effective leader and the best type of manager—one who is happy to get in the trenches. And he's a wonderful mentor, arguably the best boss I ever had. His biggest passion is managing a team, and it shows in how much care and time he spends building people up in ways that also benefit the business's needs.

    If he has a flaw, it's that he sets the bar so high for himself. I've met few people as driven as he is, but in a positive and infectious manner that inspires those around him. Work with Adam if you have a chance.

    Rob RhinehartDigital Design & Marketing ConsultantReported to Adam directly · 2025
  • If I were building a company, I'd start with Adam.

    Read the full recommendation

    I met Adam as my superior; I now think of him as a friend. His ability to motivate and manage his team members is unparalleled. He knows how to push you to do your best work without pushing you over the edge. His feedback is thoughtful, and his collaborative skills are excellent.

    If I were building a company, I’d start with Adam.

    Matt SutherlandProduct, UX & Content DesignReported to Adam directly · 2023
  • An exceptional leader who consistently goes above and beyond to set his team up for success.

    Read the full recommendation

    Adam is an exceptional leader who consistently goes above and beyond to set his team up for success. His innovative approach and fearless attitude allow him to tackle even the most complex projects head-on, inspiring his colleagues to do their best work. As a mentor, Adam’s expertise in all areas of the business has proven invaluable, providing me with the tools I need to evolve in my career. What truly sets Adam apart is his unwavering commitment to the well-being of his colleagues. He invests in his team, empowering each individual to reach their full potential, while always making himself available to offer guidance and support through any personal or professional challenge.

    Megan PriceMarketing & Communications StrategistReported to Adam directly · 2023
  • Never afraid to roll up his sleeves and work side by side when challenges arise.

    Read the full recommendation

    Adam has a great ability to translate business goals and strategy to both marketing and technology requirements that few clients I've worked with have been able to do so successfully. He was able to guide my team through a series of complex technical and regulatory requirements to successful outcomes for both the business and the individual projects themselves. Adam is never afraid to roll up his sleeves and work side by side when challenges arise and from what I've witnessed has been a great mentor to the teams he has managed. All in all, all of the things you hope for in a client.

    Greg KihlströmAuthor, CX consultant, and founderClient
  • Adam knows how to move the needle.

    Read the full recommendation

    After working with Adam, shoulder to shoulder, I can say without hesitation that his focus on creating an atmosphere for productive team collaboration is exceptional. Adam is one of those unique individuals that has a wealth of tangible knowledge across traditional marketing, digital technologies and platforms, as well as cloud based systems. Lots of folks have this knowledge base. Sure. But very few can translate that knowledge into collaborative practices that result in real innovative solutions. Adam knows how to move the needle. He also understands that "innovation" can mean coming up with a solution that simply fixes an issue that couldn't be previously resolved. For Adam, it's all about creating the space needed to allow others to shine. That includes getting groups to dynamically work together and solve issues all on their own. I truly admire these skills.

    Steven PromisloffBranding, Integrated Marketing & Change ManagementWorked with Adam on the same team · 2023
  • I always felt like he had my back and was invested in my success.

    Read the full recommendation

    Adam is a natural leader who knows how to motivate and inspire those around him. He is always willing to go above and beyond to help others, and he has a talent for bringing out the best in people. I always felt like he had my back and was invested in my success, both personally and professionally.

    Adam has a wealth of knowledge and experience, and he was always willing to share his insights with me. He took the time to understand my goals and aspirations and provided me with guidance and support to help me achieve them. Adam challenged me to push my boundaries and encouraged me to take on new challenges, which helped me grow and develop as a professional.

    In addition to his managerial skills, Adam is an outstanding communicator and collaborator. He knows how to bring people together and foster a positive work environment where everyone feels valued and respected.

    I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with Adam.

    Julia HortonContent Strategist & Customer SuccessReported to Adam directly · 2023
  • Adam comes with my highest recommendation.

    Read the full recommendation

    I had the pleasure to work with Adam on a global website/webapp redesign program. Adam is an experienced digital manager with a very deep understanding of digital strategy, CX and Content Management Solutions. Not only does he have the technical knowledge and experience to manage and oversee complex technical enterprise solutions, he also has the capabilities to understand and manage the organizational change management aspects that are inherent in global change initiatives. Adam comes with my highest recommendation.

    JG StaalData & analytics executiveColleague
  • Encouraging, strategic and influential.

    Read the full recommendation

    Three words to describe Adam as a leader: Encouraging, strategic and influential. I had the opportunity to work directly under Adam at TEKsystems. Adam joined an established team that was looking for strategic direction and the opportunity for growth. He took the time to get to know every team member, understand our current skills and encourage us to keep learning and chasing our next role. He is truly a self-less leader who wants the best for his team. In addition to his leadership skills, I witnessed an incredible sense of influence and partnership with senior executives as the brand embarked on a significant business model shift. When met with resistance, he brought his knowledge and understanding of the marketplace, including marketing technology, data and analytics and new business growth, to the table to drive change. I'd recommend Adam for any organization that is looking for an innovative and resilient leader who will make a long-term impact.

    Katherine ReitenbachMarketing Operations, TenableReported to Adam directly at TEKsystems · 2022
  • An amazing mentor, sounding board, and friend.

    Read the full recommendation

    I fully and confidently would recommend Adam Chen. He has been an amazing mentor, sounding board, and friend. His skill set, attention to details, and ability to really breakdown a problem set to find solutions is top notch.

    Crystal ShawMarketing & Communications LeaderWorked with Adam at a different company · 2023
  • I have grown as a person and as a manager because of him.

    Read the full recommendation

    I have had the pleasure of working for Adam for a little over a year. I can say I have grown as a person and as a manager because of him. Having in-depth technical knowledge, strong communication skills, industry knowledge as well as a strategy background and so much more, really sets him apart from the rest. As a manager, Adam really takes the time to understand his teams professional and personal goals and keeps that top of mind. He has made a tremendous impact on our team and myself and I know his future teams will feel the same way.

    Nikki Epsilantis-TerryWeb ManagerReported to Adam directly · 2020
  • His enthusiasm for his work made me want to be my best self.

    Read the full recommendation

    Adam was my manager while I interned at TEKsystems, and his management style made my internship an extremely positive experience. He welcomed me with open arms and treated me as a working member of the team. Adams trust in my abilities instilled a lot of confidence in myself, and his willingness to help me understand certain subject matter made me unafraid to ask any questions. Adam leads his team by example, his exceptional leadership, communication and digital skills provide a positive environment for everyone he works around, and his enthusiasm for his work made me want to be my best self. Adams knowledge in SEO, digital strategy, UX/CX and more contributed greatly to the success of the marketing department. Adam is a manager who’s not only interested in the company’s goals, but also in his employee’s professional growth. It was a pleasure to have Adam as my manager for the summer, and he would be a great asset to any team.

    Olivia BurchfieldMarketing Manager, Long HomeReported to Adam directly at TEKsystems · 2019

Work

Things I've made.

Before I led teams that made things, I made them myself. A lot of it was for NASA. I still design, shoot, and build when a project needs it.

  • NASA · 2012

    Celebrating 30 Years of the Space Shuttle

    A 280-page coffee-table book with a full spread for every mission, plus an iPad app.

  • NASA · 2011

    Space Shuttle retirement exhibit

    Hallway exhibit marking the end of the shuttle program. Designed by me.

  • NASA · 2010

    Inspiring the Future

    West Lobby exhibit at NASA Headquarters.

  • Habitat for Humanity of the Chesapeake · 2025

    Habitat Chesapeake website

    Website for Habitat for Humanity of the Chesapeake, helping families across Baltimore City and Baltimore, Anne Arundel, and Howard Counties find affordable homeownership, and connecting volunteers, donors, and ReStore shoppers.

    habitatchesapeake.org
  • Brown Advisory · 2015

    2014 Annual Report

    Project management, photography, design, and production.

  • Brown Advisory · 2015

    Global public website

    Project management, GDPR compliance, photography, and Drupal site build for the redesign.

  • Planit · 2014

    My Little Bird

    Website delivered as project manager at Planit.

  • NASA · 2012

    ISS: Painting the World Green

    Project management for an International Space Station web feature.

  • NASA · 2012

    Commercializing Space

    Project management for a NASA web feature.

  • NASA · 2011

    Research to release

    Research, script, filming, editing, and Flash web design, all by me.

  • Nyman Group · 2010

    Restaurant website

    Designed and developed end to end.

  • Wine startup · 2012

    Wine labels & logos

    Identity and labels for a new wine company.

  • Bakery · 2013

    Logo & business card

    Identity for a small cake business.

  • NASA · 2010

    X-15 e-book

    Promotional photograph.

  • NASA · 2010

    The Apollo of Aeronautics

    Promotional photograph for the e-book.

  • NASA · 2013

    NASA × Hollywood Black Film Festival

    Video I edited for the partnership.

Writing

Candid Manager.

My writing lives here: honest answers to real workplace questions, and short essays on work, leadership, language, and the creative mind. Published on Substack most mornings.

Information Symmetry and Trust

It has been a mission throughout my career to drive information symmetry in a world where information asymmetry seems to be the norm. When one side in a negotiation knows more or maintains higher quality information than the other party, it creates an imbalance where more often than not a seller has a clear advantage over the buyer. This active act of knowledge hoarding is seen as a positive trait in many business circles, especially in the C-Suite and in sales. It facilitates growth, closed deals and negotiations…

Keep reading

Listen

On the mic and on screen.

Webinars, interviews, and podcasts with founders, investors, and the people who change companies from the inside.

Talks, webinars & interviews

Podcasts

01 · Former co-host · Intrapreneurs track

The Innovation Agility Podcast

With Greg Kihlström and Bonnie Habyan. Leaders and intrapreneurs on driving change from within, and building cultures where innovation can grow.

Apple Podcasts Spotify

  1. Introduction to intrapreneurshipwith Greg Kihlström Apple Spotify
  2. How intrapreneurs shape their own brandAdam Chen as guest Apple Spotify
  3. The process of innovationMartin van Kroonenburg, BW Ventures Apple Spotify
  4. The ABCs of innovationRobyn Bolton, MileZero Apple Spotify
  5. How physical spaces shape work lifeTJ Carvis, Gresham Smith Apple Spotify
  6. Learning and growing from experienceBen Keller & Remen Okoruwa, Propexo Apple Spotify
  7. Identifying intrapreneurial talentJosh Secrest, Paradox Apple Spotify
  8. Digital transformation at The Amenity CollectiveDan Cohen, CIO Apple Spotify
  9. Stop self-silencingRachel Druckenmiller Apple Spotify
  10. Fostering innovation from withinShane Pahl Apple Spotify
  11. Great outcomes through discussion designRoger Thompson Apple Spotify
  12. Intrapreneurship and global growthAlex Ghiculescu & Beau Grzanich, Workforce.com Apple Spotify
  13. Removing ego so intrapreneurship can thriveChristine Tran, Belvedere Trading Apple Spotify
  14. An intrapreneurial culture in financial planningElliot Pepper Apple Spotify

02 · FinStrat Management

The Innovators & Investors Podcast

Founders, investors, and operators across the early-stage ecosystem.

Apple Podcasts Spotify

  1. Navigating early-stage growth and revenue alignmentAdam Chen as guest, with host Gabrielle Marquez, FinStrat Management Apple Spotify
  2. Automating process engineering workflowsTemirlan Rakhmetzhanov, Armeta Apple Spotify
  3. Revolutionizing chronic care managementSteven Amiel, Chronilogix Apple Spotify
  4. Preserving multi-generational wealth beyond the balance sheetAlex Kirby, Total Family Apple Spotify
  5. Ending interview theatre and finding true professional fitKingshuk Khan, Ikigai Apple Spotify

03 · Interviews

Guest appearances

On change agents, large-scale organizational change, and personalization in hiring.

  1. How internal change agents drive digital transformationThe Agile Brand with Greg Kihlström · 2022 Apple Spotify
  2. Leading large-scale organizational changeLead Your Life with Natalie Barron · 2022 Apple Spotify
  3. Personalization in talent acquisition (Part One)Recruiting Future with Matt Alder · 2022 Apple Spotify

Lens

Through the Viewfinder

Fifteen years of carrying a camera: Vegas stages and launches, Baltimore and D.C. streets, and places nobody goes anymore. Open any album to flip through it.

  • 2012

    The Space Shuttle's last flight over D.C.

  • 2009

    Big Boi at Pure Nightclub

  • 2016

    London, Christmas & New Year's

  • 2011

    The first Baltimore Grand Prix

  • 2009

    Christian Audigier the Nightclub launch

  • 2015

    Ireland

  • 2009

    Ludacris at LAX Nightclub

  • 2011

    Melo vs. Goodman League, NBA lockout

  • 2012

    Glenn Dale Hospital

  • 2009

    DJ Ikon magazine cover shoot

  • 2009

    Switchfoot, Las Vegas

  • 2008

    The Beat Clan DJ collective, Las Vegas

  • 2010–12

    Baltimore

  • 2009

    A Ferrari F430 in the Vegas desert

  • 2009

    Counting Crows, Las Vegas

  • 2008

    Coyote Ugly Las Vegas promo

  • 2010

    Cherry Blossom Festival, Washington, D.C.

  • 2009

    Puddle of Mudd, Las Vegas

  • 2009

    Fashion show at Pure Nightclub

  • 2006–13

    On the road: St. John, Costa Rica, Chicago, and more

  • 2009

    Steve Aoki, Las Vegas

  • 2008

    Social House menu

  • 2008

    Wyclef Jean, Las Vegas

  • 2008

    Company American Bistro

  • 2008

    New Year's Eve 2008 at Pure

  • 2008

    Macy Gray at Treasure Island

  • 2008

    Dick's Last Resort promo

  • 2008

    Club stages: Fat Joe, Cee-Lo, Erykah Badu

  • 2008

    Christina Aguilera on the red carpet

  • 2007

    Berwick Beauty product shots

252 photos in 30 albums

Off the clock

Swim. Bike. Run. Repeat.

Endurance sports taught me what business keeps confirming: show up, pace yourself, and finish what you start.

  • 2017 · Charity ride

    Tour de Cure

  • 2016 · Sprint

    Dewey Beach Sprint Triathlon

  • 2016 · International

    Luray International Triathlon

  • 2016 · Sprint

    Hagerstown Sprint Triathlon

  • 2015 · Olympic

    Fort Ritchie Olympic Triathlon

2014 · Film

A “short” ride down the C&O Canal with my brother

What I believe

  1. Creativity

    Make something that wasn't there yesterday.

  2. Fairness

    Deals where both sides win. Credit where it's due.

  3. Growth

    For the people around me first. The numbers follow.

“Your word is your bond. Serve others authentically and others will serve you in return.”

Contact

Let's build something.

Founder looking for a commercial partner? Team ready to adopt AI? Need a host, speaker, or facilitator? Send a note. I read every one.

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