Chris graduated from Northwestern University with dual degree in Economics/Political Science and later earned his MBA from the Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern. Prior to graduate studies, Chris worked for Harris Corporation in Dallas, TX. In the late 1980s, he joined the Vernon Company as a product marketing manager. For 12 years Chris worked in five different management roles and was appointed President in 1999. Chris presently serves as President/CEO and Vice Chairman of board of directors. Vernon Company is a fourth-generation family owned business founded in 1902 by F.L. Vernon. The business has over 500 employees and operates throughout North America. Four members of the family’s fourth generation are presently active in the business.

Chris has served on numerous promotional industry committees and leadership boards over the past 30 years. For 15 consecutive years, Chris has been recognized by Counselor Magazine as a member of the “Power 50” — top 50 most influential people in the promotional products/decorated apparel industries.

In his home state of Iowa, Chris has provided board leadership to economic development and non-profit organizations and served as board chair for the Jasper County Economic Development Alliance, Greater Newton Chamber of Commerce, United Way of Jasper County, Progress Industries and Progress Industries Foundation. He presently serves as board chair of Iowa YPO Gold and is actively involved in the University of Northern Iowa’s Family Business Forum.