2023 Global Leaders in Consulting: Doug Fritz

Doug Fritz is the co-founder and CEO of F2 Strategy, a veteran CTO and sought-after WealthTech consultant, Doug leads an all-star team of executives in technology-driven operations, digital client engagement, performance and implementation, among many other areas for clients. Through F2's Outsourced CTO (OCTO) model and strategy consulting services, Doug is passionate about helping firms of all sizes deliver exceptional client and advisor experiences. Before founding F2 with his wife and Chief Commercial Officer Liz Fritz, Doug was the Chief Technology Officer of First Republic Bank where he led the execution of the WealthTech roadmap. Prior, he was Senior Vice President of Wells Fargo Wealth Management Group. Doug lives in Santa Cruz.

What do you consider your greatest personal or professional achievement?

Professionally, the greatest achievement was taking F2 Strategy from a persistent idea to a 30-person consultancy in 6 years.

What advice would you give a professional just beginning a career in consulting?

Remember what your value is and stay true to what you believe: Knowledge and experience (especially in the area of technology strategy) is increasingly rare.

What have you loved most about your consulting career?

My favorite moments are when we see real and lasting cultural change occur within our clients. Since most of our engagements are long-term retainers, we get to see the impact of technology strategy and execution change the way a firm thinks about themselves, their future and where they can compete in the marketplace. It's amazingly rewarding to see those changes happen.

What's the best advice—personal or professional—you've ever received

Don't let other people (or their past experiences) establish the boundaries of what you can achieve.

What does being honored as a Global Leader mean to you?

It's an absolute honor to be recognized for the hard work and persistence but it's also a shared recognition of the energy and dedication of the entire team that got us here.