Chad Lauterbach: Transforming Small Businesses Through Tech Excellence
10 Most Inspiring CEOs in 2023
In today's fast-paced and technology-driven business landscape, having a well-structured and reliable IT infrastructure is crucial for the success of any small business. Small businesses often face unique challenges when it comes to managing their IT needs, including limited resources, budget constraints, and a lack of in-house expertise. This is where the concept of comprehensive IT services comes into play.
Meet Chad Lauterbach, the visionary CEO of Be Structured Technology Group Inc., an illustrious Los Angeles-based firm specializing in Managed IT Services (MSP) and Managed Services Security Provider (MSSP) for small businesses. With a mission to revolutionize how small businesses harness technology, Chad's leadership has ushered in a new era of strategic tech integration.
At the heart of Chad's approach lies a commitment to empowering small businesses with technology that not only enhances operations but also drives financial growth. His passion for high-level planning ensures that new systems align seamlessly with business objectives, propelling these enterprises toward unparalleled success.
The transformation of Be Structured Technology Group has been a testament to Chad's unyielding drive and dedication. As he shares, "I am careful to implement and support systems using industry best practices." It's this attention to detail and industry expertise that have set Be Structured apart in a competitive landscape.
Chad's journey has been punctuated by proud leadership moments that have left an indelible mark. However, his most cherished achievement is the creation of a vibrant community and an environment that beckons others to be a part of it. For Chad, building not just a business, but a place where talent thrives, is the pinnacle of accomplishment.
Growth isn't without its challenges, especially in the realm of technology. Chad Lauterbach's strategic vision has been the driving force behind Be Structured ascent. As he puts it, "Sometimes it's not what you can do that advances a company but whom you choose to bring on board." Chad's discerning eye for talent and his ability to assemble a stellar team have been instrumental in Be Structured trajectory.
Below are the highlights of the interview:
From Teenage IT Enthusiast to Tech Entrepreneur
Chad embarked on his journey in the realm of IT at the tender age of 14, starting off at a life insurance company. As the chapters of his career unfolded, he found himself immersed in the IT domain of a logistics firm, a pivotal point that marked the beginning of his ascent into the realm of IT management. Along the way, Chad seized consultancy opportunities that emerged during evenings and weekends, recognizing a prevailing void of top-tier IT assistance for smaller enterprises.
With a vision in 2007, Chad took a daring leap of faith and laid the foundation of Be Structured Technology Group right within the confines of his one-bedroom apartment. Fast forward to 2021, and Be Structured Technology Group stands tall, headquartered on the 22nd floor of a prominent downtown Los Angeles skyscraper. The transformation from those humble origins to a thriving enterprise of 25 dedicated individuals is a journey Chad could have scarcely fathomed. But here he stands, steering Be Structured towards its mission with unwavering commitment.
Chad's perspective on success transcends the bottom line. He places immense value on his clients, employees, and fellow collaborators, considering them the cornerstones of his accomplishments. Rather than being driven solely by financial gains, he has nurtured an ethos that centers around creating an environment that champions the well-being and growth of individuals.
Crafting Solutions
"Tech is one of the fastest-changing industries. Staying on top of IT trends is imperative to our business, so Be Structured can craft the best solutions that the clients want and need," emphasizes Chad. From a young age, his fascination with dismantling and reassembling computers fueled his curiosity and drive to comprehend the inner workings of technology. This inherent inquisitiveness led him to the realm of information technology.
An entrepreneur by nature, Chad recognized that to manifest his ambitions, he needed a stake in something substantial. Be Structured Technology Group emerged as a manifestation of his passion for technology and a profound desire to contribute beyond personal boundaries. Through this endeavor, Chad found the liberty to extend his reach and serve others in ways that resonated with his values.
Central to Be Structured Technology Group's ethos is a "People first" approach. The company's credo underscores its role as a trusted technology advisor, aiding clients in harnessing technology to realize their business objectives. Engaging Be Structured as your IT department translates to partnering with a company that excels not only in devising effective IT strategies but also in comprehending the intricacies of small businesses and nonprofits. The distinctive essence of Be Structured Technology Group lies in being more than just an IT services provider. It is a collective of fervent individuals who share a profound passion for technology, coupled with the sagacity to ensure that your IT aligns seamlessly with your aspirations.
At the heart of Be Structured Technology Group's mission is the goal of alleviating any technological concerns for its clients. The dedicated team emphasizes that their every endeavor orbits this central focus, from network monitoring, maintenance, support, helpdesk services, antivirus and spyware protection, to backup, security, virtualization, and business continuity solutions. By putting your IT in their capable hands, you gain the freedom to concentrate on what truly matters—nurturing your business.
Navigating Multifaceted Roles
A true "Jack of all trades," Chad's involvement spans numerous sectors, reflecting his multifaceted expertise. With an insatiable curiosity for technology, he remains at the forefront of exploring novel advancements, meticulously selecting technology providers, and keenly discerning emerging trends that drive the industry forward.
At the heart of Be Structured Technology Group, Chad dons the hat of the most seasoned senior-level networking engineer, skillfully steering a wide array of projects that cater to the company's esteemed clients. However, his spectrum of responsibilities extends far beyond this realm. Chad is adept at seamlessly transitioning between the roles of CEO, CMO, and CTO, illustrating his agility in switching gears to align with the ever-evolving demands of the business.
In Chad, Be Structured has a remarkable leader who not only wears multiple hats but also embodies the spirit of adaptability, innovation, and commitment to driving technology excellence across every facet of the company's operations.
Navigating the Path of Visionary Leadership
In the world of business leadership, there are figures like Musk and Dorsey who are admired for successfully managing multiple companies simultaneously. Chad Lauterbach, the driving force behind Be Structured Technology Group, is an example of this rare kind of leader. He's a visionary entrepreneur who didn't just focus on one business venture but took on several.
While building the Be Structured Technology Group, Chad also started a crypto-mining company called Perforo. Even though Perforo didn't succeed in the end, Chad didn't let that setback discourage him. Instead, he turned it into an opportunity for growth and learning. He emerged from the experience stronger and more resilient.
Chad's journey wasn't without its challenges, both in terms of business ventures and people. Two high-level executives who didn't share the company's vision left, teaching Chad an important lesson about hiring the right people. He learned that it's not just about filling a position but finding the right fit. Challenges, he believes, are a way to move forward.
Throughout his journey, Chad faced setbacks that were tough at the time, but they ultimately helped him become a better leader, a better person, and a better father. Each challenge he encountered became a chance for him to grow and learn. Chad's story shows that true leadership isn't about avoiding challenges, but about using them as stepping stones to become a stronger and more inspiring leader for others.
Pioneering Competitive Excellence
Chad's journey unfolds within a competitive realm. In Be Structured's veins flows a relentless competitive spirit, propelling it to vie for clients and forge ahead amidst ever-evolving technological landscapes. As a mid-sized MSP enterprise, Be Structured leverages its size advantage, catering to diverse professions across various sectors. At its helm, Chad champions the "Tech at the Top'' ethos, a compass pointing toward technology supremacy rather than immediate revenue gratification. Chad's paramount goal lies in meticulously aligning technology with clients' needs. What sets Be Structured apart is Chad's dual role as CEO, founder, and seasoned IT specialist, a linchpin deeply interwoven in day-to-day operations.
Uniting Life and Work
To Chad, life and work are inseparable threads, woven together in a harmonious tapestry. He asserts, "Work is intrinsic to life, and life permeates work; it extends beyond mere employment, enriching our daily endeavors." According to Chad, individuals should actively craft their lives, with their job being a fundamental element of this intricate mosaic. At Be Structured Technology Group, the bonds that bind the team stem from a shared commitment to employee experience and a vibrant company spirit. Chad values his employees, as evidenced by thoughtful gestures like team outings to Dodgers games and providing the office with freshly brewed coffee, ensuring each member feels valued and engaged.
Beyond the American Dream
Raised in the ideals of the "American Dream," with its material markers like cars, homeownership, and the iconic white picket fence, Chad Lauterbach initially embraced this vision of success. However, as he achieved these markers of "success," he began to question their true value in life. He pondered a pivotal question: "What does success really mean to me?" Through introspection, Chad uncovered a more profound truth—real success is found in uplifting others.
At a significant crossroads, Chad faced a choice: continue pursuing the conventional path of the "American Dream" or dedicate himself to making a positive impact on the world around him. He chose the latter, opting to channel his energy and aspirations into improving the lives of those he touched. Chad's true motivation lies in people—the clients he serves, the vendors he collaborates with, and the employees he leads. For him, genuine success is measured not just by personal accumulation, but also by the positive influence he has on the lives of others.
Chad's Wisdom: Balancing Passions and Business
If Chad could whisper advice to his younger self during the founding days of Be Structured, it would be this: never underestimate your diverse skill sets. He regrets not fully pursuing his interests, like photography, philosophy, sound engineering, and running, earlier in life. These passions resurfaced later, prompting him to realize the importance of embracing them sooner. Chad would urge his younger self to remain inquisitive, constantly seek answers, and savor life's experiences to the fullest. He'd share the stoic concept of 'memento mori"—a reminder that we have only one life to live—urging himself to live it without regrets.
For aspiring young leaders, Chad imparts valuable lessons. He emphasizes building a business that can scale without being solely dependent on your presence. The initial step, according to Chad, is to define the type of business you want, whether it's a small boutique or a large corporation, and then craft a strategy accordingly. He cautions against fixating solely on profits and success, as they're not the ultimate drivers. As he puts it, "You can't fill your pockets with cash by following the crowd." Instead, he stresses the importance of compassion, understanding, and genuine care for people. If your product adds value and resonates with others, that's a worthy accomplishment. Chad's advice extends to employee relationships as well. He highlights the significance of treating everyone with kindness and respect while conducting business. Building a team of motivated individuals who want to work with you is a great achievement, and Chad's message underscores the value of fostering a positive workplace culture rooted in respect.
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