Chuck McMurray
5.0
(1)
Business Strategist & Coach | Solving Complex Challenges with Impact
Studied at Columbia College Chicago
Worked at Wi-Tronix
Successful clients at
Not currently taking new clients
Chuck’s Business Operations & Strategy Qualifications
Experience level: Director
Welcome to my profile! With over a decade of experience in business strategy and operations, I have honed my skills in developing and implementing innovative solutions across various industries. As a Commercial Director at Wi-Tronix and a former Sr. Director of Growth Markets at Workiva, I have successfully led teams in creating AI-enabled platforms and go-to-market strategies. My background in communications and marketing, combined with my hands-on experience in SaaS and big data, equips me to provide comprehensive coaching tailored to your unique business challenges. Having coached five individuals to achieve their strategic goals, I'm excited to help you navigate your path to success. Let's connect and explore how I can support your business journey!
Chuck can help with:
AI Automation
AI Fundamentals
Business Strategy Development
Competitive Analysis
Cover Letters
Financial Analysis
Interview Prep
LinkedIn Review
Market Research
Negotiation Skills
Networking Strategy
Operations Management
Process Improvement
Project Management
Resume Review
About Chuck
Hi, I’m Chuck McMurray, a passionate innovator, storyteller, and lifelong learner dedicated to helping others unlock their potential. My journey has been anything but conventional, shaped by an early career in television production and storytelling, followed by decades of success in data analytics, business strategy, and professional services. I grew up with a deep appreciation for communication and creativity, earning a degree in Communications from Columbia College Chicago, graduating with honors and a 3.8 GPA. My early years were spent managing TV studios and editing rooms, where I learned how impactful a clear, compelling narrative can be—not just on screen but in life. That storytelling instinct became the foundation for my career in sales, marketing, and business development, where I’ve led transformative projects for Fortune 500 companies, built groundbreaking partnerships, and driven multimillion-dollar initiatives. What sets me apart is my blend of technical expertise and an innate ability to connect with people. As a “D-style” leader from the DiSC profile, I thrive in environments that demand bold action, strategic thinking, and results-oriented collaboration. But what truly fuels my work is the joy of empowering others—whether that’s mentoring colleagues, building cross-functional teams, or now, helping clients achieve their goals through coaching. My approach to coaching is grounded in empathy, creativity, and pragmatism. I’ve lived the highs and lows of professional reinvention—navigating career transitions, building a brand, and finding purpose in work that aligns with who I am. I draw on those experiences to help my clients create actionable plans for success while staying true to their unique story. Outside of work, I’m a proud father supporting my son’s entrepreneurial dreams, an avid DIY enthusiast, and someone who loves exploring the intersections of creativity, technology, and human connection. Whether you’re looking for guidance to advance your career, embrace a new challenge, or refine your unique value proposition, I’m here to help. Let’s collaborate to craft your next chapter. Together, we’ll turn your aspirations into achievements.
Why do I coach?
I coach because I believe in the transformative power of guidance, support, and human connection. Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to work with mentors and colleagues who saw potential in me even when I couldn’t see it myself. Their encouragement and insights helped me navigate pivotal transitions—whether it was shifting industries, embracing leadership roles, or developing the confidence to take on new challenges. One of the most defining moments in my journey was overcoming the fear of reinvention. Like many, I’ve faced uncertainty—whether it was stepping into unfamiliar roles, recovering from setbacks, or learning entirely new skills to keep pace with a changing world. It was the guidance of thoughtful mentors that gave me the tools to push through those challenges, find clarity, and ultimately thrive. Coaching matters to me because it’s a way to pay that forward. I’ve seen firsthand how the right conversation at the right time can unlock someone’s potential, turn obstacles into opportunities, and create a sense of purpose that propels them forward. I thrive on helping others see their value, refine their goals, and take meaningful action to achieve them. For me, coaching isn’t just about sharing advice—it’s about being a partner in someone’s growth. I love empowering clients to own their journey, discover their strengths, and overcome barriers. Whether they’re seeking clarity, confidence, or a renewed sense of direction, I’m here to help them navigate their path and achieve the success they deserve. It’s an honor and a privilege to be part of someone’s story, and that’s why I coach.
Work Experience
Senior Director of Product Marketing
Wi-Tronix
August 2023 - August 2024
At Wi-Tronix, I spearheaded the company’s first global expansion into sales, marketing, and product messaging, which resulted in a 20% increase in Total Contract Value (TCV) for North American Passenger Operators within six months. This role taught me the power of building cross-functional collaboration and innovative problem-solving, key skills I bring into coaching. In this capacity, I coached and mentored teams through periods of rapid change, helping them embrace agile methodologies and adopt innovative sales enablement strategies. Guiding others to see challenges as opportunities was incredibly fulfilling, and I discovered my passion for helping individuals grow and develop alongside their organizations. As a coach, I draw from this experience to help clients navigate high-pressure environments, lead effectively during transitions, and implement strategies that drive both personal and organizational success.
Senior Director, Product Marketing
Workiva
June 2021 - June 2023
Hiring Manager
As Senior Director of Product Marketing at Workiva, I led transformational initiatives, including the development of a new platform messaging methodology that unified complex technical concepts into a clear, relatable narrative. This approach not only streamlined communication across global teams but also drove a 30% increase in sales and exceeded marketing-qualified lead goals by 20%. A critical part of this success was mentoring cross-functional teams to embrace customer-centric strategies and think creatively about problem-solving. I worked closely with individuals at all levels, fostering their ability to connect with diverse audiences, articulate value propositions, and navigate the nuances of strategic marketing. This experience solidified my belief in the power of guidance and collaboration. As a coach, I help clients identify their unique strengths, refine their messaging, and build the confidence to lead with purpose in high-stakes environments. My approach is rooted in empowering others to craft their personal and professional stories in ways that resonate and inspire action.
Senior Director, Strategy & Business Development
Workiva
November 2019 - June 2021
As Senior Director of Technical Business Development and Platform Strategy, I led initiatives that spanned advanced analytics, big data solutions, and enterprise performance management. My work included creating co-sell models with global partners, managing over 50 active enterprise-level deals, and delivering multimillion-dollar client projects that transformed organizational capabilities. Central to this role was coaching high-performing teams and empowering them to adopt innovative approaches to problem-solving and relationship management. I guided colleagues to think strategically, navigate complex negotiations, and leverage data-driven insights to achieve impactful results. This experience shaped my coaching philosophy by demonstrating the importance of balancing strategic vision with hands-on mentorship. Today, I help clients build their confidence in leading transformational initiatives, managing stakeholder relationships, and fostering resilience in dynamic environments. My goal as a coach is to inspire others to see challenges as opportunities for growth and success.
Senior Director, Software Consulting North America
Oracle
April 2018 - October 2019
Hiring Manager
As Senior Director at Oracle, I drove the launch of a new customer satisfaction process and analytics tools across North America, leveraging technologies like Oracle APEX and SOAR methodologies. This effort resulted in a significant improvement in Net Promoter Scores, rising from 7 to 8.8 in just six months, and set a new standard for customer advocacy within the organization. In this role, I mentored a talented team of director-level content managers and developers, guiding them through complex challenges, fostering a culture of innovation, and empowering them to deliver exceptional results. My focus was on helping individuals align their technical expertise with strategic objectives, ensuring that every project had measurable impact. This experience informs my coaching style, which emphasizes strategic thinking, team alignment, and leadership under pressure. I work with clients to develop the skills necessary to lead cross-functional teams, drive operational excellence, and build solutions that inspire trust and loyalty in their stakeholders.
President and Founder
The Big Data Department
July 2017 - April 2018
Hiring Manager
As an independent consultant under the Big Data Department, I partnered with cutting-edge organizations like Cognitive Scale, MapR, and a mid-sized eCommerce business, helping them leverage advanced analytics and AI-driven solutions to transform their operations. My work included designing scalable data strategies, implementing AI-enabled customer insights, and delivering impactful eCommerce re-pricing models that drove measurable growth. In this entrepreneurial role, I not only delivered technical solutions but also coached clients and their teams to adapt to the fast-changing landscape of big data and AI technologies. I facilitated knowledge transfer, empowering them to sustain and expand the systems and processes I helped build. This experience reinforced my belief in the power of hands-on guidance to drive both individual and organizational transformation. As a coach, I use this entrepreneurial and consultative experience to help clients navigate ambiguity, harness emerging technologies, and confidently lead in innovation-driven environments.
Senior Director, Advanced Analytics
The Hackett Group
2016 - 2017
Hiring Manager
At The Hackett Group, I served as Senior Director of Advanced Analytics, spearheading transformative projects in data strategy, big data methodologies, and advanced analytics for enterprise clients. I developed and implemented go-to-market strategies, managed high-impact client engagements, and delivered innovative solutions that included Alteryx data blending applications and a $770K upsell deal with GE. A key component of my success in this role was coaching and empowering cross-functional teams to approach problems with a blend of creativity and data-driven precision. I guided colleagues and clients alike to navigate complex systems, adopt emerging technologies, and translate analytics into actionable insights that drove measurable business outcomes. This role solidified my passion for mentoring others through strategic challenges and fostering growth in technical and leadership capabilities. As a coach, I draw on this experience to help clients build confidence in managing complex projects, leading analytics-driven initiatives, and creating lasting impact in their organizations.
Senior Director
Huron
August 2013 - March 2016
Hiring Manager
At Huron Consulting, I led the establishment of the Oracle Big Data practice as Director of Advanced Analytics and Enterprise Performance Management (EPM). My work included redesigning Best Buy’s entire business intelligence and EPM footprint, which became the largest deal of 2014, and creating a pipeline of over 50 opportunities in the Oracle Big Data channel. This role required not only strategic vision but also the ability to coach and mentor teams to tackle complex challenges. I worked closely with cross-functional groups, enabling them to adopt innovative data strategies, implement cutting-edge analytics tools, and align their efforts with organizational goals. My approach emphasized building confidence, fostering resilience, and cultivating a mindset of continuous improvement. As a coach, I bring this hands-on leadership experience to help clients navigate ambiguity, master advanced tools and methodologies, and lead transformative projects with confidence. I focus on empowering individuals and teams to achieve results that go beyond expectations.
Senior Director, Strategy & Business Development
Baker Tilly
May 2013 - August 2014
At Baker Tilly, I served as Director of Business Development and Analytics, where I developed go-to-market strategies for Oracle Endeca and Oracle Big Data solutions. My work included designing rapid deployment frameworks, such as the Quick Start project design, and securing the largest Oracle Endeca deal with American Family Insurance, which introduced transformative data discovery capabilities. In this role, I mentored sales and technical teams, empowering them to align their efforts with client needs and market trends. By fostering a collaborative approach, I helped colleagues embrace innovative analytics tools, streamline sales processes, and enhance their ability to deliver impactful results. My guidance often centered on building confidence in navigating complex data ecosystems and leveraging insights for strategic decision-making. As a coach, I draw on this experience to help clients lead in data-driven environments, refine their strategic vision, and cultivate the resilience needed to drive organizational growth. My focus is on empowering professionals to master their unique capabilities and achieve meaningful results.
Deputy Director of Education
The Mars Society
December 2012 - January 2014
During my time with the Mars Society, I took on leadership roles that combined strategic innovation, education, and community engagement. As Deputy Director of Education and Director of the Youth Rover Challenge, I spearheaded programs designed to inspire the next generation of STEM leaders. My work included developing curriculum frameworks, coordinating international competitions, and fostering collaborations between academic institutions and industry experts. One of my proudest achievements was mentoring teams of students and young professionals as they tackled complex engineering and design challenges. I guided participants through the process of turning abstract concepts into practical, competition-ready solutions, fostering critical thinking, teamwork, and resilience. These experiences emphasized the importance of creating supportive environments where creativity and innovation can thrive. This role reinforced my belief in the transformative power of mentorship. As a coach, I draw on these experiences to help clients navigate uncharted territory, think boldly, and align their goals with meaningful impact. Whether it’s advancing in STEM fields or driving innovation in other industries, I’m committed to helping individuals unlock their potential and achieve extraordinary results.
Director, Central Region
Alteryx
August 2009 - April 2013
Hiring Manager
At Alteryx, I held three pivotal roles, each providing unique experiences and opportunities to lead and mentor. Starting in sales, I quickly established myself as a top performer, earning recognition as Rookie of the Year in 2010 for exceeding my sales quota. As I transitioned to lead the Central Region, I managed a six-person team with a $7.3M revenue goal, where my efforts included building a new sales office and achieving 100% renewal rates across accounts. Toward the end of my tenure, I led strategic alliances, including the development of the groundbreaking partnership with Tableau. This initiative expanded Alteryx’s user base from hundreds to tens of thousands, showcasing the power of collaboration and innovative go-to-market strategies. Throughout these roles, I embraced coaching as a core element of my leadership. I mentored teams to adopt innovative sales and relationship-building strategies, fostered cross-functional collaboration, and guided individuals to think creatively about analytics-driven solutions. My leadership style emphasized empowerment, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. As a coach, I leverage these experiences to help clients grow their leadership capabilities, master strategic partnerships, and navigate the complexities of sales and business development. My goal is to inspire professionals to embrace change, drive results, and unlock their full potential.
Director, Business Development
Business and Decision
November 2006 - August 2007
At Inforte, later Business & Decision, I served as Director of Business Development, leading go-to-market strategies for analytics, customer relationship management (CRM), and data-driven solutions. I spearheaded initiatives that included selling a $3.3M multi-year analytics deal with AB InBev (Budweiser) and developing a customer relationship roadmap for the biopharmaceutical sector, which resulted in transformative partnerships with companies like Pfizer, Abbott, and Genentech. One of my standout achievements was creating the “Selling the Story” program, which leveraged client-specific research to build more personalized and impactful customer engagements. I also introduced innovative prospecting strategies that used tools like LinkedIn and Hoover’s to empower sales teams with competitive insights and targeted opportunities. Coaching played a pivotal role in my success here. I mentored consultants and sales teams to think strategically, utilize advanced tools, and embrace storytelling as a way to connect with clients and stakeholders. I focused on developing their confidence in navigating complex sales cycles and delivering tailored solutions that aligned with customer goals. As a coach, I bring these insights to help clients refine their business development skills, design compelling value propositions, and build meaningful relationships that drive growth. My approach is rooted in empowering individuals to align their expertise with strategic opportunities for maximum impact.
Director, Business Development
Arbitron
July 2004 - October 2006
At Arbitron, later Scarborough Research, I served as National Account Manager, driving national-level revenues for the Advertiser Marketer Services team. In this role, I spearheaded significant deals, including a groundbreaking five-year contract with WellPoint, which opened the healthcare sector for Scarborough’s services, and a three-year agreement with General Growth Properties, valued at $266,000 annually. My efforts earned multiple accolades, including “Salesperson of the Year” and recognition as a “New Business Champion.” During my tenure, I developed the "Selling the Story" concept, a pioneering sales approach that immersed account executives in real-world client scenarios to enhance their ability to address customer challenges effectively. I also created value-driven strategies that enabled high-budget retailers, restaurants, and manufacturers to connect with their target markets, driving significant revenue growth across multiple verticals. This role reinforced my belief in the importance of mentorship and empowerment. I worked closely with colleagues to refine their sales strategies, build confidence in client-facing interactions, and leverage data insights to craft compelling narratives. As a coach, I draw on these experiences to help clients excel in business development, master value-based selling, and foster resilience in competitive industries. My goal is to empower professionals to connect deeply with their customers and deliver solutions that drive lasting impact.
Manager, Business Development
D&B
September 1998 - July 2004
At Dun & Bradstreet, I held several roles that shaped my expertise in sales, business development, and innovative solutions. Starting as an Account Consultant, I quickly distinguished myself as a top performer, exceeding sales goals within six months and earning recognition as "Rookie of the Year." I was later promoted to Relationship Manager, surpassing a $900K new business target by closing $1.1M in deals, and eventually advanced to Business Development Manager, where I led sales enablement for the National Sales team. One of my most impactful contributions was designing and implementing D&B’s first intranet using HTML and ColdFusion, which became a vital tool for internal communication, sales enablement, and employee engagement. I also developed a game-changing prospecting strategy using Microsoft Access and Excel, significantly improving lead generation and conversion rates. Throughout my tenure, I discovered my passion for coaching as I mentored colleagues to adopt innovative sales techniques, build strong client relationships, and embrace data-driven decision-making. I guided teams to navigate complex challenges, instilling confidence and fostering a culture of collaboration. As a coach, I leverage these foundational experiences to help clients refine their sales strategies, harness the power of innovation, and achieve sustainable growth. My approach is rooted in empowering individuals to combine technical expertise with relational acumen for long-term success.
Education
Columbia College Chicago
Bachelor of Arts in Communications, Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services
1993 - 1997
Grade: 3.8 Activities and societies: Former Alumni, Teachback Program 2006-2009 - Television Production & Fiction Writing Tutor Microsoft Excel, Communication and +1 skill
1 Review
Overall Rating
5.0
Chuck has helped Leland clients get into Solera