Chris Clemens Nashville operations leader and Program & Operations Director at I Am Next
Our Team

Chris Clemens

Program & Operations Director

Chris Clemens brings over 16 years of experience in operations, logistics, systems development, and strategic leadership to I Am Next. Known for his ability to turn chaos into structure, Chris has built a career around helping organizations create scalable systems, strengthen operational stability, and translate vision into practical execution. At I Am Next, he plays a key role in program development, operational strategy, and building the infrastructure that supports young adults aging out of foster care.

A builder at heart, Chris combines hands-on problem solving with a deep commitment to helping others navigate life’s transitions. From developing operational frameworks and governance systems to supporting innovative programs like Life Support Essentials, his work is driven by a belief in improving broken systems and creating long-term sustainability for the people they serve.

Before joining I Am Next, Chris founded and operated ventures across e-commerce, regulated manufacturing, consumer brands, and consulting. His background includes operational strategy, systems development, and embedded leadership work across nonprofit, logistics, hospitality, manufacturing, and automotive environments. Through his consulting work, he supported organizations connected to brands such as Ferrari, Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, and Marriott while collaborating within complex operational environments focused on scalability, modernization, and long-term organizational stability. His experience also includes operational consulting work supporting federal investigative operations, helping streamline processes, improve organizational effectiveness, and strengthen operational execution within highly regulated and mission-critical environments. He has worked across distributed teams, logistics networks, service operations, and interconnected organizational systems spanning North America, Europe, and Asia.

Outside of his professional work, Chris has remained deeply involved in motorsports, endurance driving, and mechanical restoration projects. He has participated in professional sports car racing and multiple transcontinental endurance events, experiences that continue to shape his approach to logistics, resilience, risk management, and high-pressure decision-making.

Whether building systems, refining processes, or mentoring young adults, Chris approaches every challenge with focus, adaptability, and a practical mindset grounded in real-world experience.