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 processes, 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, Visualizing the Bigger Picture
Executive Leadership & Management
Executive Leadership, Sensemaking, Strategic Leadership, Strategic Planning, Strategic Initiatives, Tactical Planning, Partner Relationship Management, Relationship Building, Team Leadership, Team Building, Visioning, 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, Managing 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, Service Levels, Business Continuity
Enterprise IT & Systems Architecture
Inventing, 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, JSON, PHP, Laravel, SQL
Cloud Infrastructure & Platforms
Cloud Computing, VMware, Linux, Microsoft Office 365, 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