A friend once likened Wray Ward VP, Insights Strategist Charlie Elberson to Willy Wonka. Like the enigmatic owner of the fictional factory in Roald Dahl’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” our Charlie is always back there somewhere, creating goodness — even when you don’t see him.

If you aren’t fortunate enough to know Charlie, chances are you know a brand he’s improved or a life he’s touched, especially if you live in the Charlotte region. Besides his strategic work with our Insights group, he’s supported more than 100 nonprofit organizations through his Reemprise Fund. It’s part of how he lives up to his dad’s advice: Be instrumental, not incremental. Be meaningful. Create change.

With his tireless energy and many talents — from KPIs to keyboards — it’s no wonder Charlie has so many lives. We’re thrilled his Wray Ward life is one of them.

Interested in more true stories behind the talent on our team? Watch videos featuring Ashton Nichols, senior project manager and painter; Content Lead Laura King Edwards, author and advocate; and Senior Designer Dave Haire, musician and dad.