AI Strategies for the SMB Enterprise
Built by Ben McLendon – executive strategist, MIT-trained AI leader, and hands-on engineer. I combine vision with velocity to help your business implement powerful AI-driven automations, fast.
Why Work With Me?
Most consultants offer either strategic insight or technical implementation. I offer both, with 30 years of enterprise IT leadership and hands-on development capability.
- Executive Fluency: I translate AI into ROI.
- Engineering Mastery: I build tools, workflows, and automations that work.
- Trusted Advisor: I guide your team with clarity and focus.
- Velocity + Vision: I ship fast, with long-term value in mind.
What I Deliver
- RAG-powered knowledge systems
- Custom GPT tools and internal copilots
- AI automations across documents, APIs, and emails
- End-to-end system architecture for real outcomes
Engagement Models
- Fractional AI Partner: $15K–$40K/month
- Fixed-Scope Builds: $25K–$75K per project
- Advisory Sprints: $5K–$15K for workshops, audits, and ideation
Who I Work With
I serve mid-sized businesses (200–2000 employees) looking to:
- Automate internal workflows with AI
- Deploy GPT-powered tools and assistants
- Launch new offerings enhanced by intelligence
- Deliver measurable results—not just PowerPoints
Education and Certifications
Lifelong Learning is an essential habit developed throughout my career.
- Degrees
- 1993 - B.S. - Valdosta State University
- Executive Education
- 2025 - AI Strategy and Leadership Program: Thriving in the New World of AI - MIT
- 2025 - Designing and Building AI Products and Services - MIT (In Progress)
- Certifications
- 2024 - Certified in Cybersecurity - ISC2
- 2024 - Certified OKR Foundation - OKR Institute
- 2023 - Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer - Python Institute
- 2019 - ITIL 4 Foundation - AXELOS
- Previous Areas of Study
- Brocade Certified Virtual Router Engineer
- VMware Certified Associate - Data Center Virtualization
- VCE Certified Converged Infrastructure Associate
- Implementing the ShoreTel IP System
- Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate MCSA: Windows Server
Skills
AI / Technology Strategy & Innovation
Technology Leadership, Technical Leadership, IT Strategy, Digital Innovation, Technology Integration, Technology Trends, Concept Generation, Strategic Insights, Seeing the Bigger Picture
Executive Leadership & Management
Executive Leadership, Leadership, Strategic Leadership, Strategic Planning, Strategic Initiatives, Strategic Business Initiatives, Tactical Planning, Management, Partner Relationship Management, Relationship Building, Team Leadership, Team Building, Clear Vision, Social Influence
Business Strategy & Transformation
Business Acumen, Business Case Preparation, Business Process, Business Process Improvement, Business Requirements, Objectives & Key Results (OKRs), Key Performance Indicators, Capital & Expense Budget Management, P&L Management, Acquisitions, Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A), Business Continuity
Enterprise Project & Program Leadership
Project Management, Project Implementation, Project Portfolio Management, Scope Management, Process Improvement, Defining Requirements, Manage Complex Projects, Problem Solving, Decision-Making, Understand & Convey Complex Information
Cybersecurity / Compliance & Risk Management
Cybersecurity, Incident Response, Data Privacy, Privacy Compliance, Regulatory Compliance, Regulatory Requirements, ITIL 4 Foundation, Service Levels, Business Continuity
Enterprise IT & Systems Architecture
Information Technology, IT Infrastructure Management, IT Management, IT Operations, IT Service Delivery, IT Sourcing, Network Architecture, Systems Design, System Performance, System Implementations
Software Development & Engineering
Software Acquisition, Software Architectural Design, Software Engineering, Web Applications, Python, JavaScript, PHP, Laravel, SQL
Cloud Infrastructure & Platforms
Cloud Computing, VMware Certified Associate - Data Center Virtualization, Linux, Microsoft Office, Windows Server, VoIP
Real Estate / PropTech & Industry Expertise
Property Management, Property Management Systems, Proptech, Provider Contracting
Communication / Leadership Development & Influence
Coaching & Mentoring, Public Speaking, Presentations, Internal & External Communications, Customer Service, Customer Satisfaction, Cross-functional Team Leadership