Retirement Wasn’t Enough: Why This Tech Exec Chose to Build a Business Instead

After decades of leading high-level technology teams and building enterprise-grade software, Bob Lee had every reason to ride into the sunset of retirement. But just five months in, the former head of software engineering at Turnitin — a global leader in plagiarism detection and educational technology — found himself craving more than Netflix marathons and leisurely days.

“I started to feel mentally lazy,” Bob admits. “I needed to get back into the swing of things.”

That drive to stay engaged led him to an unexpected second act: business ownership. Today, Bob runs CMIT Solutions of North Oakland and Walnut Creek, where he combines his deep technical expertise with a renewed passion for serving his local business community.

A Journey from the Boardroom to Business Ownership

Before joining CMIT Solutions, Bob’s résumé included stints at Fortune 500 companies, founding a venture-backed startup, and ultimately serving as a top executive at Turnitin. When he left that role, he thought retirement was the next chapter. But as he quickly realized, he wasn’t quite done building — just ready to build something of his own.

Initially exploring a range of franchise opportunities (including a cycling gym and mobile pet grooming), Bob was ultimately drawn to CMIT Solutions. “It was in my wheelhouse,” he says. “The technology focus, the recurring revenue model — it just made sense.”

That combination of technical comfort and business autonomy struck the perfect balance. “It’s really my baby,” Bob says. “I have a lot of freedom in how I run my business, and that’s incredibly rewarding.”

From Leading Large Teams to Rolling Up His Sleeves

Bob’s experience managing massive teams in the tech world taught him how to build systems, scale processes, and solve complex problems. But running his own CMIT Solutions franchise has added a new dimension: customer closeness.

“In corporate, you're often shielded from the customer,” Bob explains. “Now, I’m working directly with local businesses. I see firsthand how our work impacts them.”

That’s especially true when it comes to cybersecurity — a priority Bob knows well. “Some clients get it immediately, especially in law and finance,” he says. “For others, I use real data and examples to show them why it's critical.”

He even dispels common tech myths in his community networking events. “One big myth? That if your data’s in the cloud, it's always backed up and secure. That’s just not true — you still need to take ownership of your security posture.”

Learning Sales, the Introvert’s Way

Despite years of public speaking and technical leadership, sales was a new challenge for Bob — and a bit outside his comfort zone.

“I’m naturally introverted,” he shares. “So the idea of selling was a bit intimidating at first. But my franchise consultant gave me great advice: the best salespeople aren’t always the loudest. Sometimes, listening is more powerful than talking.”

That mindset has served Bob well. Clients routinely compliment his ability to explain complex tech concepts in plain language and appreciate how closely he listens to their needs.

A Mentor’s Lesson That Changed Everything

A pivotal lesson from his mentor reshaped Bob’s approach to team building. Initially, he gravitated toward assembling teams of like-minded individuals. However, his mentor taught him that true success comes from surrounding himself with diverse perspectives. By embracing different mindsets, Bob has learned to identify blind spots, foster innovation, and drive great results.

“It’s easy to build teams that agree with you,” Bob says, “but it’s far more valuable to have those differing opinions that challenge your thinking and broaden your view.”

Building Relationships — and a Business

Bob credits much of his early success to personal networking. He’s active in organizations like BNI, ProVisors, and even the local Rotary Club — where he’s found genuine connection and valuable referrals.

“I’ve tried all the typical marketing strategies,” he says. “But face-to-face networking has been the most effective. It’s not just about selling — it’s about becoming part of the local business ecosystem.”

His thoughtful, measured approach has helped him grow steadily and land major clients, including law firms and pension managers, where he’s implemented impactful technology transformations — from modernizing document workflows to setting up secure virtual desktop environments.

The Power of the CMIT Network

While Bob runs the show locally, he’s quick to highlight the power of being part of something bigger.

“We have the personal touch of a local provider, but the backing of a national network,” he says. “I can tap into thousands of experts across the country — that gives me credibility with clients and support when I need it.”

It’s one of the reasons he chose CMIT Solutions in the first place — and why he feels confident about the future.

Lessons from the Road — and the Bike

Outside the office, Bob is an avid cyclist, logging over 200,000 miles in the last 30 years. “It’s my meditation,” he says. “Some of my best ideas come while riding solo. It clears my mind and fuels my creativity.”

That discipline — the same one that keeps him pedaling day after day — is evident in how he approaches his business: thoughtful, consistent, and always improving.

Advice for Future Owners

To anyone considering a similar path, Bob offers this:

• Set stretch goals, but keep them realistic.
• Be patient — it takes time to build.
• Try multiple marketing approaches, but know when to pivot.
• Most importantly, don’t expect instant success — play the long game.

“It’s not one-size-fits-all,” he says. “But if you stay the course and keep learning, it’s incredibly rewarding.”

A Full Circle Moment

Reflecting on his journey, Bob is both proud and energized. “It’s been a great year and a half,” he says. “And I’m excited for what’s ahead.”

For someone who thought he was done working, Bob Lee is more engaged than ever — building a business that blends the best of his past experience with the freedom and fulfillment of entrepreneurship.