Kate Roberts has spent the last three decades working in high-tech and running her own successful consultancy. Much of her success can be attributed to her collaborative approach to problem-solving. From Kate’s cross-sector work to increase educational and economic opportunities in the developing world, to her local community building work right here in Santa Cruz, you'll hear inspiring stories from Kate’s work, volunteer, and travel experiences.
About Kate Roberts Kate Roberts is President of the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership (MBEP). Prior to joining MBEP, Ms. Roberts spent seven years running her own independent management consultancy that helped organizations solidify strategies and accelerate growth. Over her 20 plus years in the high-tech industry Kate Roberts held leadership positions in sales, marketing, partner management, and corporate social responsibility. She spent a decade at Cisco Systems, Inc. leading strategic initiatives and creating successful partnerships with the United Nations, USAID and other global partners to further tech education and workforce development in the developing world. Kate’s varied nonprofit board experience spans both the social and environmental spectrum at the regional and national level. As a volunteer ambassador with Save the Children, she led a women's empowerment delegation to Ethiopia and Uganda, and climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro with CARE to raise funds and awareness for their community-based programs in Tanzania and Zanzibar. She is an active community member, serving on several local boards, and has also produced the last three One Billion Rising Santa Cruz events which brings together local nonprofit organizations working to end violence against women. Kate graduated with honors from the University of California at Irvine and received a post-graduate certificate in cross-sector partnership from Cambridge University in England. She is an avid traveler, speaks 4 languages, is an award-winning photographer, gourmet cook, accomplished knitter, and an intrepid hiker. A native Californian, Kate lives in Santa Cruz, California with her husband of 25 years, Buz Roberts. Registration is required Chamber members: $37.00 Non-members: $50 Table (Table of 8): $285 Luncheon Sponsor:
Santa Cruz Women in Business Quarterly Luncheons take place in March, June, September, and December. These quarterly luncheons are a great opportunity to hear an interesting presentation and connect with other Santa Cruz business people. Women in Business luncheons are organized by the Santa Cruz Chamber Women in Business committee, but everyone is welcome, men included..