Matthew Roberts
President & CEO
As President & CEO of Core Consulting, Matt brings over two decades of diverse industry experience to his role. With a robust background in technology, Matt is a seasoned leader who excels in driving strategic initiatives and fostering innovation.
Before joining Core Consulting, Matt served as Director of Data Services and IT Program Management at Elephant Insurance. He spent over 10 years in or around technology in the insurance industry, including as CIO at Alfa Alliance Insurance and various IT management positions at W.R. Berkley Mid-Atlantic. Additionally, he spent 10 years in the defense component supply and manufacturing industry.
Matt holds dual Bachelor’s degrees in Finance and Management from Virginia Tech and an MBA from Averett University. He actively contributes to several non-profit organizations, including Soar365, Virginia Home for Boys & Girls, and Virginia Ag in the Classroom. He is also a volunteer for the Goochland High School Marching Band and has contributed to InsureTech RVA. Previously, he served as Director of Destination Imagination – Central Virginia.
In addition, Matt is a member of the Reynolds IT Advisory Board and serves on the Board of the Core Technology Foundation Scholarship. A former Eagle Scout, Matt’s leadership and commitment to service are reflected in all aspects of his work.
Coates Carter
Chief Technology Officer
Coates is a senior IT Engineer and business executive with over 30 years of experience in process engineering, infrastructure, complex software development, project, portfolio and enterprise data management. Coates learned the value and challenges of operationalizing strategy with NeXT Inc., SCT (Sungard), the University of Richmond, and as a consultant to many dynamic businesses.
Coates received an M.S. degree in Information Systems from Virginia Commonwealth University and a B.S. degree from the Graduate School of Industrial Management at Carnegie Mellon University.
Christine Roberts
Director of Operations
Christine is a seasoned Operations Manager, bringing over 20 years of experience in recruiting to Core Consulting. With a strong background working for non-profit organizations, Christine has been instrumental in delivering successful outcomes in HR, Recruiting, Development, and Training.
Christine grew up in Goochland, VA and earned her BBA in Business Management from Radford University. She has been married for 20 years with two daughters, Lindsay and Katie, and is actively involved in volunteer work for the Goochland High School Band and Goochland High School Softball. When she’s not working or volunteering, Christine is an avid runner and enjoys participating in half marathons.
Elisabeth Dowdy
Controller & Strategic Leader
Elisabeth joined Core Consulting in 2023, bringing her strong analytical and communication skills to our team. In her role as Controller & Strategic Leader, she oversees financial operations and strategic planning by collaborating with senior leadership in order to align financial strategies with business objectives.
Born and raised in Richmond, VA, Elisabeth earned her B.A. in Music Education (Voice) from VCU and went on to perform in various musicals, operas, and concerts. She continues to donate time and performances to local Asian American and Pacific Islander organizations, including the Filipino American Association of Central Virginia. When she is not working, Elisabeth enjoys reading, watching movies, and spending time with her husband and two children, Sam and Gemma.
Julie Jones
Account Specialist
Julie Jones has been a vital part of Core Consulting since joining in 2013. As an Account Specialist, she expertly manages accounts payable, accounts receivables, and payroll. With over 20 years of experience in HR, accounting, and the insurance industry, Julie brings a wealth of knowledge and precision to her role.
Julie holds a Bachelor of Science from Longwood University with a concentration in Education and Fitness, as well as a Master of Science from Virginia Commonwealth University with a focus on Exercise Physiology. A Richmond native, she is deeply involved in her community, volunteering for Goochland Cares and For the Love of Pigs.
Julie is an avid animal lover and enjoys spending time outdoors. She is married with 6 children and 11 grandchildren and cherishes every moment with her large family.
Collen Benzin
Financial Services Practice Lead
Colleen joined Core Consulting in 2025 as a seasoned insurance leader with over two decades of executive experience, driving revenue growth and launching innovative insurance products and technology solutions. Known for her strategic leadership and ability to scale businesses, she has held senior roles at both Fortune 500 companies and startups, where she has successfully built distribution channels, enhanced digital infrastructure, and led high-performing teams.
A recognized industry expert, Colleen combines operational excellence with a people-first approach, making her a trusted advisor in navigating growth and innovation within the insurance sector.
Colleen has extensive international experience, having lived and worked in Asia and Europe to integrate acquisitions and manage financial system implementations. She is also a recipient of Diversity Journal’s “Women Worth Watching Award” and served for eight years on the Alzheimer’s Association National Board of Directors.