Ops Week
Monday, January 26, 2026 - Friday, January 30, 2026
11:00am - 4:30pm ET, daily
AI Implementation Strategist & Operations Consultant
Katie Bedford
My career trajectory has been unorthodox, but ever so fun. Before starting my own consulting firm, I spent five years working as a project manager in the museum industry, creating interactive digital exhibits.
In the seven years prior, I worked as a systems engineer in the aerospace industry on space robotics and satellite programs. And prior to that I was a wild-and-crazy kid who jumped at every opportunity that came my way - be it volunteering in Africa, traveling across Europe as a laser service technician, or learning to fly a plane before learning to drive a car.
In university, I was drawn to engineering as I am a naturally adept problem solver and a bit of a technology geek. But a career in engineering left me with a creative itch that needed to be scratched.
So I transitioned to the world of digital agencies, learning the ins and outs of interactive design and development. It was here that I fell in love with the idea of creating experiences that are both meaningful and delightful.
That experience ultimately led me to launch my own consulting firm, where I help innovative organizations bridge the gap between technology and user experience. I'm now able to draw from my diverse background to find creative solutions to complex problems. It's been an amazing journey so far and I'm excited for what comes next!
When I'm not keeping busy with work, you'll find me playing board games, strumming my ukelele, and generally making mischief. In short, I'm just your average fun-loving nerd.
You Can't Stop the Waves: Managing Risk in Modern Agency Operations
Great delivery isn't about avoiding disruption—it's about steering through it with confidence.
In this session, you'll learn a practical framework for managing operational risk that goes beyond project timelines to protect what really matters: client trust, team stability, and agency resilience. You'll walk away with a clear approach to anticipating, assessing, and managing risk—so your team can deliver on promises even when conditions change. This isn't theoretical risk management; it's the stuff that keeps agencies from quietly unraveling and helps you sleep better at night.
Key Takeaways
Risk extends beyond your project plan — Learn to manage both delivery risks (scope, timeline) and systemic risks (team, market, finance) that can destabilize your agency
A practical four-part framework — Anticipate risks early, assess what actually matters, adapt your response strategies, and anchor through ongoing monitoring
The dual-lens approach — Protect both the client promise (project delivery) and the engine behind it (agency resilience)
Risk responses are strategic choices — Understand the difference between positive and negative risk, and the various options for managing both
Transparency builds trust — Use regular risk reviews to reduce scope confusion, calm client nerves, and keep teams aligned when things get bumpy
