Chris Cairo
About Chris Cairo
Chris Cairo serves as the Managing Director for PCs for People in Minnesota, where he has worked since 2021. He has a diverse background in leadership roles across various companies, including Zeeland Lumber and Supply and CHS Inc., and possesses expertise in building strategic partnerships and developing innovative operational strategies.
Current Role at PCs for People
Chris Cairo serves as the Managing Director for Minnesota at PCs for People, a position he has held since 2021. In this role, he focuses on operational leadership and strategic initiatives to enhance the organization's impact in St. Paul, Minnesota. His responsibilities include developing and implementing strategies that align with the organization's mission to provide technology access to underserved communities.
Previous Experience in Leadership Roles
Cairo has held several significant leadership positions throughout his career. He was the Vice President of Power Marketing at NRG Energy for one year in 2001-2002. He also served as Vice President of Eastern Region, Country Operations at CHS Inc. from 2018 to 2020. Additionally, he was the General Manager of the Rochester business unit at CHS Inc. from 2017 to 2018 and the Vice President at Agspring from 2015 to 2017.
Board Memberships and Advisory Roles
Cairo has contributed to various organizations through board memberships and advisory roles. He served on the Board of Directors at Zeeland Lumber and Supply from 2018 to 2020. He was also a member of the Board of Advisors at Kenny B's Cookie Company from 2008 to 2013. These roles reflect his commitment to guiding organizations in strategic decision-making.
Educational Background and Training
Cairo holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Northeastern Illinois University. He furthered his education at Stanford University Graduate School of Business, where he studied Finance for Non-Financial Managers. Additionally, he completed the Leadership Development Initiative program at Cornell University, enhancing his leadership skills.
Expertise in Strategic Partnerships and Operations
Cairo is recognized for his ability to build profitable, strategic partnerships across various sectors, including customers, suppliers, and unions. He possesses skills in Lean thinking, which supports the development of efficient operating strategies. His extensive experience in the Ag, Food, Ingredient, and nonprofit markets has enabled him to lead sales and operations effectively.