Ice Breakers

Ice Breakers with Chris Withers

November 11, 2022

Chris Withers is the founder and CEO of klikit. With a first-of-its-kind enterprise technology stack, klikit helps restaurants become far more efficient in food delivery operations while also connecting restaurants to creators and companies to launch virtual food brands.

Before klikit, he was VP at Gojek and the first APAC Head of Growth for Uber Eats.


👋🏼 How would you explain your job to someone outside tech?

We use software to connect kitchens to creators and companies to launch their own fast food brands.


🧐 What's something about you or your job that would surprise us?

That — just like when I ran my own kitchens — I don't expect anyone to do anything I wouldn't be prepared to do myself. From washing dishes to writing data queries — servant leadership is powerful. And in my mind, one of the only ways to build a truly great business surrounded by smart, good people.


🏆 What has been the biggest highlight of your career so far?

My first Uber Ice Cream event in 2015. Wild. Delivering thousands of ice creams on demand to customers on a hot summer day was a blast. And to think, just several years later, it gave rise to what is now Uber Eats. I guess I've liked the space for a long time.


🔍 What's a startup trend or space you're watching this year?

Web3. I am fascinated by token-gated content; it will clearly pave the next wave of creators, content delivery, and fandom. We even might be playing in the space... stay tuned.


💼 What advice would you give someone starting out in your industry?

In foodtech? Start out by washing dishes, move your way up to the packing station. Then, try behind the flat-top as a line cook. When you've done all that, only then think about starting a tech company for kitchens.

🗣 What's one thing you can keep talking about for hours?

The Short-Form Content War (TikTok vs. The World).


🎥 What's your favorite movie/TV show?

Death Note.

🍨 What's your go-to ice cream flavor?

Peppermint Choc-Chip. Either love it or hate it.

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