Description

Company: Engenius
Owners: Chris Manley
Year Started: 2008
Employees: 11-25 

What happens when profit feels like a moral compromise? In this episode, Chris Manley, CEO of Engenius, shares how a nonprofit mindset shaped the early days of his agency and how a pivotal shift in 2014 changed everything. From co-founder exits to building a business that serves both clients and employees for the long haul, Chris offers a refreshing look at purpose-driven entrepreneurship.

Key Takeaways

• Why profit felt like a “dirty word” and what finally changed
• The surprising risk of outgrowing your own team
• How to part ways with a business partner on great terms
• A practical take on open-book management that actually works
• Why staying small on purpose might be the best long game

Details for an agency planning workshop event November 10th and 11th 2025.