Andrew Dillon is a dynamic growth leader and innovation strategist with a proven ability to identify and open new markets, ideate and develop transformative products and services, and enhance existing business models to unlock new growth pathways. With deep expertise in digital solutions, customer engagement, and emerging technologies, he has successfully driven business expansion and strategic development across diverse industries. His forward-thinking approach enables organizations to navigate disruption, capitalize on market shifts, and accelerate sustainable growth. A results-driven entrepreneur, Andrew excels at conceptualizing and commercializing high-impact solutions that redefine industries and create long-term competitive advantages.
As the Principal Advisor and Founder of Grid Align, Andrew has been instrumental in guiding energy companies on go-to-market strategies, product development, and business growth in electrification, grid automation, and decarbonization. His expertise in leveraging innovation to create multi-million dollar opportunities has solidified his reputation as a key influencer in the evolving energy sector. Prior to Grid Align, he served as Director of Innovation at West Monroe, where he spearheaded the development of new services and digital offerings that expanded the firm’s market presence in transportation electrification and sustainable energy solutions.
Andrew’s entrepreneurial journey is marked by the successful founding and leadership of multiple startups. As the Founder and VP of Business Development at Varentec, he pioneered an innovative energy IoT solution, securing venture capital funding from Khosla Ventures and Bill Gates. His leadership helped secure high-value contracts with Fortune 100 utility companies and government-backed grid modernization initiatives. His previous venture, itDuzzit, revolutionized cloud software integration and was acquired by Intuit. Most recently, he founded Upliftly, a next-generation digital mental health app with emerging AI capabilities, where he led the development of the entire technical and user experience. This venture underscores his ability to leverage cutting-edge technology to address critical market needs, further broadening his impact across industries.
With experience spanning five successful startups and multiple enterprise growth initiatives, Andrew’s influence extends beyond his own ventures. He has played a pivotal role in advising and mentoring other businesses, helping them navigate market entry, develop innovative offerings, and achieve sustainable expansion. His ability to bridge the gap between technical expertise and business strategy makes him a sought-after consultant for companies looking to adapt, evolve, and thrive in competitive markets.
Beyond his corporate and entrepreneurial successes, Andrew’s diverse background includes producing and directing a feature film distributed in 40 countries, reimagining university media programs, and developing mental health technology solutions. His broad-ranging expertise, coupled with a collaborative and adaptable leadership style, has made him a trusted advisor to businesses seeking strategic growth and industry disruption.
A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin with a Master’s in Communication Technologies and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Andrew combines technical acumen with business savvy to drive innovation at the highest levels. His passion for building market-defining solutions and his ability to transform ideas into actionable, revenue-generating ventures continue to make him a leading figure in business innovation and transformation.
Character
Andrew Dillon is a dynamic and resourceful leader who thrives on innovation, embraces challenges with a solutions-driven mindset, and is dedicated to fostering growth in businesses and individuals alike.
Knowledge
Andrew possesses deep expertise in growth leadership, leveraging strategic foresight, innovation, and market dynamics to drive business expansion. His ability to identify emerging opportunities, optimize business models, and align innovation with organizational objectives enables companies to accelerate sustainable growth and maintain a competitive edge.
Strategic
Andrew excels in identifying untapped market potential, crafting scalable business models, and executing growth strategies that drive revenue expansion, industry disruption, and long-term success.
Communication
A compelling communicator and collaborative leader, Andrew effectively conveys complex ideas, aligns stakeholders, and inspires teams to execute visionary projects with clarity and confidence.
