Paul Roetzer

Founder & CEO, SmarterX

Education: Bachelor’s degree in journalism, Ohio University

What Success Looks Like to Me: Success is creating the freedom to spend more time with the people and on the projects that matter most. 

What I Look for in a Leader: Curiosity and intrinsic motivation. The best leaders are constantly learning, connecting ideas and adapting to change. I also look for emotional intelligence, resilience and a willingness to solve problems.

What Motivates Me Right Now: We’re living through one of the most important technology shifts in history, and helping people understand and apply AI is incredibly energizing. I’m motivated by the opportunity to build new things, rethink old assumptions and help organizations prepare for what’s next.

My Leadership Style: I try to be optimistic, transparent and focused on the future. I want people to challenge ideas, bring solutions and experiment. 

What Would Surprise Someone to Learn About Me: I went to college to be a doctor.

An Important Lesson I Learned: Embrace failure. Never hesitate to head in a direction that others seem to fear.

A Cleveland Spot I Recommend: Joe’s Deli in Rocky River