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Chris Knudsen
WSJ Bestselling Author | Original Brand Strategist and Former CMO at Purple | Inventor | Fractional CMO | I build DTC companies at StoicYeti.
Professional Background
Chris Knudsen is a multifaceted entrepreneur and seasoned consultant with a robust background in various industries. Over the years, he has carved out a niche for himself in consulting, digital agencies, direct-to-consumer products, e-commerce start-ups, and the exciting world of 3D printing. His dynamic career has been marked by a series of impressive accomplishments that showcase his expertise and commitment to innovation.
One of the highlights of Chris's career is his role as a managing partner at StoicYeti, where he has leveraged his extensive knowledge in business development and marketing strategies. Prior to this, he was a pivotal part of the founding team at 3DplusMe, a groundbreaking venture-funded company specializing in consumer 3D printing and scanning. Under his leadership, 3DplusMe captured market attention and was eventually sold to White Clouds in 2015. This venture not only exemplifies Chris's entrepreneurial spirit but also showcases his ability to navigate and thrive in the rapidly evolving technology landscape.
Moreover, Chris has held several prominent positions in the marketing realm, including his tenure as the original strategist and launch Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) at Purple, where he played a key role in establishing the brand's identity and market presence. As the former CMO at SEO.com, Chris honed his skills in search engine optimization and digital marketing, contributing not only to the company's growth but also to the broader conversations around digital strategy in today’s marketplace.
His entrepreneurial journey does not stop there; Chris co-founded GearTrade.com, a successful online platform that specialized in outdoor gear and was sold to Backcountry.com in 2002. This experience provided him valuable insights into e-commerce and led to his involvement in multiple startups, with two being particularly noteworthy to his career trajectory.
Education and Achievements
Chris Knudsen's academic background further solidifies his credibility in his various fields of expertise. He pursued his MBA with a focus on Finance and Entrepreneurship at Westminster University, enhancing his skill set in business management and strategic development. Additionally, he studied Business Management at Brigham Young University and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration with a specialization in Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies at Utah Valley University.
Notably, Chris is also a published author of four books, lending his voice and insight to the wider community through both fiction and non-fiction genres. His work has appeared in esteemed publications, including articles in Connect and Launch magazines that address critical business strategies and marketing trends.
Chris's achievements have not gone unrecognized; in 2007, he was proudly inducted into v|Spring Capital's v|100 list of Top Venture Entrepreneurs, a testament to his innovative spirit and impact within the venture landscape in Utah. He maintained his position on this prestigious list annually until its conclusion in 2012, further affirming his stature in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
In addition to his achievements in the corporate world, Chris is passionate about education and mentoring future leaders. He has taught as an adjunct instructor at multiple prestigious institutions, including Westminster College from 2005 to 2012, Utah State University from 2013 to 2016, and currently at Utah Valley University where he imparts invaluable knowledge in courses such as entrepreneurship, internet marketing, and corporate strategy.
Achievements
Chris Knudsen is more than just an entrepreneur; he is a thought leader who has made substantial contributions in the areas of consumer product development, internet marketing, offline marketing, lead generation, and e-commerce strategies. His comprehensive expertise extends to website usability, content marketing, conversion optimization, analytics, and social commerce. His skills in business development, negotiation, and venture capital planning have positioned him as a sought-after consultant and coach in his field.
His diverse career trajectory, with a wealth of experience across different companies and industries, speaks volumes about his dedication to continuous growth and innovation. Chris exemplifies what it means to be a pioneering entrepreneur and educator, merging practical application with academic theory to create a robust educational experience for his students.
With his experience spanning over various high-stakes environments and project endeavors, Chris Knudsen remains committed to pushing the boundaries of what's achievable in business, making him a notable figure in the realms of entrepreneurship and marketing.
