The Art of Execution
Systems Thinking Meets Human Connection
A master communicator, Richard Norby applies a unique skill set honed through systems analysis, corporate creative direction, and a lifetime in music and performance. For Richard, execution is an art—it requires the discipline of a conductor, the logic of a programmer, and the fluency of a storyteller. This unique synthesis allows him to grasp complex technical challenges, translate them into engaging human-centered content, and lead projects with clarity and command. Today, Richard unites these skills as the Principal of Miles North Productions and the Managing Director for the Chicago Writer’s Bloc, building digital platforms and developing compelling dramatic works.
Technology & Strategic Leadership
Engineering Mission-Critical Systems
Richard’s foundation in logic and architecture was forged in the demanding world of Information Technology, where he managed mission-critical systems and pioneered new applications. His key achievements include:
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Revenue Recovery and Billing Systems: At Ameritech (later AT&T), Richard designed and managed a complex error system that successfully recovered revenue from billions of phone calls that had failed to bill, directly impacting the company’s bottom line. He also developed the system responsible for exporting inter-carrier phone records to dozens of external phone companies.
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Government & Military Systems: Richard served as a programmer/analyst on the EDS team managing data processing for Orange County, California. Later, he was part of the development team for the US Army’s first online recruiting system, utilizing the nascent DARPA Net infrastructure.
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Pioneering Financial Software: In the early 1980s, Richard was instrumental in writing some of the first desktop software for financial planning at banks, demonstrating early vision in leveraging emerging technology.
This experience instilled a rigorous focus on data integrity, logical structure, and strategic problem-solving that informs all his work today.
Presenting a seminar on how to use the Internet in combination with a live event at an international conference in Bangkok
Creative Executive and Strategic Storyteller
Training booth staff for Purina’s exhibit at a national veterinary conference..
Richard transitioned his technical understanding and creative flair into strategic communication, culminating in his role as Vice President of Creative Services for Live Marketing. In this executive capacity, his responsibilities included:
- Creative Leadership: Managing a team of freelance writers, editing and approving scripts for presentations at major global tradeshows.
- Client Strategy: Writing proposals and brainstorming concepts for clients ranging from small startups to Fortune 100 companies, including Siemens, Cisco Systems, Intel, Apple, and Sprint.
- Training & Synergy: Developing a program for training trade show booth staff to enhance client engagement, and leveraging his IT background to supervise internal technology resources and manage client web projects that integrated with their tradeshow campaigns.
Discipline, Mastery, and Active Arts Leadership
Richard’s expertise in communication began on the stage and in the rehearsal hall. A dedicated performer and teacher for over 30 years, he brings a mastery of presence and performance to every professional engagement.
- Performer and Conductor: Richard has appeared in over 40 different musicals, operas, and plays as a singer, actor, and dancer, performing as both a baritone and a tenor. He has also served as a respected choral conductor, including as Assistant Conductor and Tenor Soloist at the historic Chicago Temple in downtown Chicago.
- Educator and Entrepreneur: He founded a successful school for singers located in Chicago’s famed Fine Arts Building, demonstrating deep knowledge and mentorship in the vocal arts.
- Current Artistic Focus: Richard is actively engaged in the Chicago arts scene as the Artistic Director for Chicago Writers’ Bloc, a 501 (c) (3), helping playwrights develop their new works. His most recent play focuses on the cultural and societal impacts of Artificial Intelligence. He continues to perform in staged readings and new theatrical productions.
TOP LEFT: Scrooge in Ron Combs’s opera “Christmas Carol”
BOTTOM LEFT: A coaching session with Sherrill Milnes
RIGHT: Dr. Grant in Jim Blair’s play “The Happy Hour”