Chris Foster
Vice President, Booz Allen Hamilton
MY GREATEST STRENGTH
Two strengths that I rely heavily on are my imagination and my curiosity. In my current role, I both manage business activities and lead the development of innovative capabilities/solutions for our clients. The ability to tap into my curious nature, never settle for the status quo, and challenge myself to reimagine the future lend themselves well to how I perform in my current position.
INSPIRATION
My colleagues at Booz Allen Hamilton inspire me. Our genuinely collaborative culture, relentless pursuit of excellence in client delivery, and our steadfast commitment to our core values impress and inspire me daily.
MOTIVATING OTHERS
I motivate others by inspiring and challenging them to see their role in shaping the future. One of my favorite quotes reads, “The Future As You’ve Imagined it.”
OUR GREATEST CHALLENGE
If I knew the answer to this question, I’d retire and write a book about it. I think there are many problems, ranging from the digital divide and wealth gap to the education crisis and health disparities. All of these issues are critical and, in some cases, related. These problems are not new and have dogged our community for the last 40 years or more. In some cases, there has been real progress, as well as many success stories, but not nearly enough to lift our entire community. We need to learn from the past, accept the realities of today’s environment, and chart a course for tomorrow, where we strengthen and empower our community from the bottom up.
GIVING BACK
I volunteer at many nonprofit education & social services organizations that serve the African-American and historically disadvantaged populations in local communities. I also serve on the National Board of Inroads, Inc.
LESSONS LEARNED
To succeed in any endeavor or career, you must understand the importance and value of humility!
ACHIEVING BALANCE
I achieve balance in my life by getting daily exercise and setting appropriate boundaries that allow me to spend time with my family.
PERSONAL WISDOM
Over the years, I’ve learned to temper my impatience.
CAREER ADVICE
Do what you love, love what you do, and above all else, have FUN!
