Cate Heaman’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2005 when she founded her first telecom auditing and consulting business. This venture evolved into direct hardware and software services, achieving partnerships as an Avaya Platinum partner and a ShoreTel Silver partner. However, in 2016, she made the bold decision to sell the hardware and software portion of that business and launch Prelude Solutions as a women-owned enterprise. Since then, the firm has been re-certified for the sixth consecutive year.
Prelude Solutions offers expert guidance to elevate communication platforms. The company’s thorough analysis drives technology cost reduction, delivering clients an average savings of 33%. “What sets us apart is our unique perspective, seamlessly integrating with clients’ teams,” said Heaman. “We propel clients toward their tech goals with a comprehensive inventory, market analyses and access to 400+ partners.”
Since becoming a Titan 100 last year, Heaman said her greatest accomplishment has been leading her team through an exceptionally challenging period for the business, taking on four Fortune 1000 clients and the need to pivot quickly from relying on a partner for historical auditing to bringing this process in-house.
“Despite the complexities involved, we managed this transition with agility, intelligence and a fresh approach to auditing,” said Heaman. “As a result, we not only successfully onboarded these new clients but also implemented a range of new processes and procedures that led to the discovery of new lines of business.” Ultimately, these efforts paid off, as Prelude Solutions achieved its revenue targets and ended the year with a positive EBITDA of 16%.
As a titan of industry, Heaman has taken several forward-thinking initiatives to drive growth and adapt to changing market conditions, including a transformation in how the firm engages with its current client base, approaches new clients and strengthens its services.
Her biggest leadership lesson learned this year is that anything is achievable. “I have learned that it’s truly remarkable what a team can achieve when everyone is aligned and committed to a common goal,” said Heaman. “I witnessed firsthand how our team’s agility and problem-solving skills saved Prelude Solutions from disaster.” This experience reaffirmed the importance of having the right people in place, she said.
Heaman said she has also worked to foster an environment for the next generation of titans, particularly focusing on women in technology. “With Prelude Solutions hitting over $3 million in sales and ranking in the top 2% of women-owned businesses in technology, I have taken on a proactive role in mentoring and supporting women to become certified as women-owned businesses,” she said. “As a woman in technology and a titan, I strive to inspire other women to pursue their dreams in the technology sector.”
