Blue Ocean Global Technology Interviews Andre Rogers | Founder of E3Insights

Andre Rogers is a man who encounters problems and finds ways to solve them. Over 30 years, he has earned the experience small business owners need and created the solutions that move them forward.

In 2019, Andre Rogers founded E3Insights, LLC, a firm that provides on-demand executive management on a fractional basis. E3Insights partners with successful but overstretched owners, helping them oversee important back-office tasks, and allowing that owner to focus on activities that help grow the company and achieve strategic goals.

Before launching E3Insights, Rogers was the CFO and co-founder of Enlightened Inc. Over 20 years, Rogers grew Enlightened to a $30 million IT services and consulting firm; creating a global company with over 200 employees serving government and commercial clients.

Andre Rogers carries his leadership beyond the businesses he stewards. As chairperson of the Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce, he collaborated with the Office of the Governor of Maryland to expand the number of small businesses in the state. For 10 years, Rogers served on the Board of The George Washington University School of Business. His work is his passion, and he brings to every aspect of his life. Rogers and his family are also active in their local and regional community.

Since launching E3 Insights, Andre Rogers has shared his expertise on iHeartMedia Inc., UMD’s PMI Symposium, PMI DC’s Symposium and Ted Talks’ TEDxUStreet. His 30 years of accomplishments in the corporate, economic and education sectors are well celebrated: Rogers is a two-time winner of SmartCEO Magazine’s Executive Management Award, and the recipient of MEA Magazine’s Leadership & Excellence Award.

Blue Ocean: Tell us about your professional life. Why did you choose to work in this industry?

Andre Rogers: I have been blessed to serve in leadership roles across a variety of circumstances. As a company leader, starting in 1999, I co-founded a company that attained annual revenues of $30M and am now starting a new company. I have been a leader and a corporate citizen, serving as the Chair of the Board of Directors of the local Chamber of Commerce. As a civic leader, I now serve as Vice President of the Board of Directors of a local Community Development Corporation. Each of these leadership roles requires diverse and unique techniques to be successful.

I began my career as a consultant at a public sector firm. That is where I developed my belief that solving people’s problems is a business’ most impactful accomplishment. In my second act, I am both an advisor and implementer to C suite executives, My clients entrust me to tackle their most difficult challenges. I gain tremendous fulfillment in being able to solve these problems. 

In the equally important area of corporate citizenship, I served as the Chair of the local Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors. Continuing in the civic lane, I now serve as the Vice President of the Board of Directors of a Community Development Corporation. 

To be successful, each of these leadership roles requires a diverse set of distinct skills and the ability to apply appropriate techniques.

Blue Ocean: What does your typical day look like?

Andre Rogers: My day starts with taking some private time of prayer and reflection. I check my calendar for the day’s appointments, then my emails. My day is filled with appointments ranging from consultations, business development meetings, client visits, and addressing any immediate, unexpected issues.

Blue Ocean: What is one trend from your industry that excites you?

Andre Rogers: Fractional Leadership has existed for a few years but remains relatively new in everyday business conversations. I’m excited because as a Fractional Leader, I contribute to this emerging industry as it evolves. Our industry helps companies navigate a defining period when they need leadership resources to grow but lack the budget for additional full-time executives. In the past, business owners faced the tough choice of hiring someone beyond their financial means or neglecting strategic initiatives that could elevate their company. The industry is making progress in demonstrating its value.

In my view, the industry can still improve in developing guidelines for when to use Fractional Leaders, establishing best practices for engagements, and creating certifications for Fractional Leadership.  

Blue Ocean: How have you differentiated yourself and what underpins your success?

Andre Rogers: One area where I strive to excel is in supporting business owners. While I bring expertise and insights, I don’t have a personal agenda. My goal is to see business owners succeed. My experience has taught me that a decision that works for one company may be entirely wrong for another, even when the circumstances are similar. Sometimes, the CEO needs to trust their instincts and make a decision. I support that decision and help leadership achieve their true objectives. 

Blue Ocean: What is something unique you offer your clients?

Andre Rogers: One distinctive offering we provide is a fixed monthly retainer, unlike our competitors who typically charge hourly for similar services. We aim for our clients to view us as their fractional business partners, ensuring they feel comfortable reaching out to us any time, without hesitation. This approach alleviates concerns for business owners about receiving unexpectedly large invoices during critical times when they need our support the most. 

Blue Ocean: What advice would you give to your younger self?

Andre Rogers: If I could advise my younger self, I would emphasize the importance of relaxation and trusting the process. Success will unfold in its own time. While hard work is crucial, it’s equally vital to balance it with leisure. Burning the midnight oil every night won’t hasten success. Instead, prepare for the long haul—a marathon rather than a sprint. Above all, savor every moment of the journey.

Blue Ocean: What is something you are grateful for? 

Andre Rogers: I am grateful for my family; they make relaxation meaningful. The impact I can have on their lives truly reflects the quality of my own. 

Blue Ocean: What are your sources of happiness and inspiration?

Andre Rogers: The source of my happiness stems from my spiritual life. It helps me maintain perspective, clarify what truly matters, and keeps me resilient even in the face of apparent failure.

Blue Ocean: Outside of work, what passions and interests do you usually pursue?

Andre Rogers: Outside of work, I dedicate my time to volunteering in civic and political activities, as well as at my local church.

Blue Ocean: Please share your favorite quotation.

Andre Rogers: Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not: nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not: the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. – Calvin Coolidge

Conclusion:

Andre Rogers shares his unique approach to leadership and his commitment to supporting business owners. Rogers’ dedication to promote business growth and success exemplifies the qualities of a true leader.