Mark Fitzgerald serves as Managing Director for Propeller’s Denver office, where he is focused on helping clients navigate complex change and build momentum through transformation. With nearly 30 years of experience guiding organizations through critical transformation moments and a deep passion for people-first leadership, Mark is helping shape Propeller’s continued impact across Colorado.

Since joining the firm in 2024, Mark has helped clients unlock value from AI investments, navigate uncertainty, and rethink their operations. Today, he’s focused on deepening client partnerships, expanding Propeller’s regional footprint, and continuing to foster a strong, people-centered culture.

We caught up with Mark to hear his perspective on what clients are facing, where innovation is heading, and what it means to lead with purpose in a time of change.

# As Managing Director, what’s been your approach to leading the Denver office and growing its impact?

We have a great team in Denver and a strong track record of delivering high value for local clients. My approach has been to build on that foundation, continuing to strengthen client relationships, expand our regional footprint, and create meaningful opportunities for our team to grow.

Right now, I’m focused on four key priorities:

  1. Helping our clients succeed in their most important transformations
  2. Supporting our team through a people-first culture and enable continued professional growth
  3. Extending our presence in both the public and private sectors
  4. Creating a lasting, positive impact in our local community

# How do you see Propeller’s role evolving in the Denver market?

Denver is a competitive consulting market, and I have a lot of respect for the leaders and firms operating here. That said, Propeller’s track record of delivering transformation, combined with our nimble, people-focused approach, positions us well. We’re focused on building long-term, mutually beneficial relationships with clients who are ready to innovate and rethink how they operate.

# As the leader of Propeller’s AI service, how are you approaching AI and emerging technologies to drive innovation for clients and internally?

The impact that AI is having and will continue to have on how work gets done is significant. At Propeller, we're leaning into how AI can enhance the way we operate internally and multiply the value we deliver for clients.

At its core, AI is creating a transformational moment for all organizations. Given Propeller’s history of successfully leading companies through significant transformations, we’re excited to partner with our clients to help them generate maximum impact from their AI investments in 2025 and for years to come. 

Related Content: AI Alignment: Four Strategic Considerations to Maximize Business Value

# What challenges are clients facing right now, and how is Propeller helping them make meaningful progress?

There’s a lot of uncertainty in the market, and that’s making strategy execution tough. The organizations that are making positive progress, despite the significant unknowns, are doing so by building agility and flexibility into their operating models. They’re focused on forward momentum, even if the path changes along the way.

One of the most meaningful areas of impact I’ve seen at Propeller is in helping clients realize real value from their AI investments. A lot of organizations are overlooking two critical pieces: people and process. We’ve brought our transformation expertise into the AI space to help bridge that gap, making a noticeable difference in how clients execute and scale their initiatives. 

Related Content: Center People and Processes in Your Next AI Implementation

# How do you bring your people-first leadership approach to life?

As a leader, I try to connect each individual’s areas of passion with ways they can contribute to our clients’ and the company’s success. Sure, there’s always going to be work we don’t love, and we have to accept that reality. But I want to make sure that, on balance, what people are doing fills their cup more than it drains it.

# What drew you to Propeller, and what’s stood out since joining?

The main reason I joined Propeller was the people. Across the firm, you’ll find individuals with both high EQ and IQ, people who can navigate technical complexity while also building strong, human-centered relationships with clients.

What’s surprised me most is the complete absence of egos. For a group of such high performers, that’s rare, and it creates a culture rooted in mutual respect and collaboration.

# Outside of work, what keeps you energized and connected to the community?

Outside of work, I spend a lot of time with my family, enjoy traveling, and can't get enough college football. I’m also committed to giving back to the local business and technology community. I serve on the Board of Directors for the Colorado Technology Association and have been a member of its Executive Committee for the past five years. It’s a great way to stay connected to what’s happening in the region and support innovation across the state.