Chris Van Guilder
About Chris Van Guilder
Chris Van Guilder serves as the Chief of Staff at Starkey Hearing Technologies, where he oversees executive communications and strategic planning. He has a background in political science and economics, with previous roles in government and healthcare communications.
Work at Starkey Hearing Technologies
Chris Van Guilder has served as Chief Of Staff at Starkey Hearing Technologies since 2015. In this role, he authors communications for the CEO and C-Suite, including executive leadership presentations and crisis response plans. He collaborates with the Chief Strategy Officer to shape and execute the company's strategic plan, ensuring alignment with long-range financial plans and market conditions. Additionally, he chairs the CEO Critical Action Team and the COVID-19 Steering Committee, overseeing critical initiatives during the pandemic. Van Guilder also leads the global campus and facility redesign and capital improvement initiatives, managing $10 million in annual expenses.
Previous Experience in Communications
Before joining Starkey Hearing Technologies, Chris Van Guilder worked in various communication roles. He served as Deputy Communications Director at the Minnesota Senate for three months in 2011 and as a Communications Specialist for nine months in the same year. His experience also includes a position as Supervisor of Customer Experience at Starkey from 2013 to 2015, where he focused on enhancing customer interactions.
Education and Expertise
Chris Van Guilder earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Economics from Saint John's University, where he studied from 2004 to 2008. He also attended the University of Notre Dame Australia for 11 months in 2007, focusing on Political Science and Government. His educational background provides a strong foundation for his roles in communications and strategic planning.
Background in Business Analysis
Prior to his current role, Chris Van Guilder worked as a Business Analyst at UnitedHealth Group for one year from 2008 to 2009. He also gained experience as an Administrative Clerk Intern in the Office of the County Attorney at Stearns County from 2007 to 2008. These roles contributed to his understanding of organizational operations and strategic decision-making.
Leadership in Facilities and Safety
As Chief Of Staff at Starkey Hearing Technologies, Chris Van Guilder is the executive leader of the global real estate, facilities, and safety departments. He is responsible for managing significant annual expenses related to campus and facility improvements, ensuring that the company's infrastructure aligns with its strategic goals.