Suggestions
Chris McLaren
Senior Executive - Advisor - Board Member
Professional Background
Chris McLaren is a distinguished senior executive with an impressive career spanning over 25 years. With a unique blend of strategic thinking, innovation, and disciplined execution, Chris has successfully transformed various organizations ranging from large multi-nationals to dynamic start-ups. His extensive industry experience has empowered him to become a versatile business leader capable of handling diverse challenges.
As a highly motivated professional, Chris has built, launched, and managed multiple business units and P&Ls throughout his career. His expertise lies in driving significant growth, transformation, and disruptive change while enhancing operational efficiency. Often regarded as a business builder and fixer, he is known for his ability to attract and develop high-performing teams that achieve remarkable commercial, technical, and customer outcomes. Chris's track record of success is anchored in his capability to tackle complex problems and develop strategies that yield lasting results.
With a passion for creating sustainable growth and excellence in customer experience, Chris has collaborated with a plethora of talented directors, executives, teams, customers, and suppliers. His results-driven approach has enabled him to solve exciting, intricate, and challenging business scenarios effectively.
Education and Achievements
Chris McLaren's academic background lays a solid foundation for his professional success. He studied Electrical Engineering with Honours, specializing in Telecommunications, at the University of Technology Sydney, where he graduated with First Class Honours. His rigorous education equipped him with a strong technical acumen that supports his innovative strategies in technology and business development.
In addition, Chris further honed his leadership skills and governance knowledge by completing the Company Directors Course at the Australian Institute of Company Directors. This course has empowered him with insights into corporate governance, enabling him to effectively lead and contribute to Board-level discussions and decisions.
Notable Career Achievements
Chris has held several key leadership positions throughout his career, significantly impacting each organization he has been part of. Some of these notable roles include:
- CEO - USA at XpertiseNow: In this role, Chris was instrumental in spearheading the company's expansion into the U.S. market, leveraging his global experience to drive growth and strengthen its service offerings.
- Investor & Advisor at SavvyCard: Here, Chris played a crucial role in providing insights and strategic direction to drive business performance and innovation within the organization.
- Chair - North American Advisory Board at the University of Technology Sydney: Chris contributed his expertise to enhance the university’s engagement and initiatives in North America, connecting the academic community with industry leaders.
- Partner at KPMG US and KPMG Australia: His tenure at KPMG showcased his proficiency in various sectors, particularly in Technology, Media, and Telecommunications, leading teams to achieve peak performance and improved client satisfaction.
- Vice President at Capgemini: During his time at Capgemini, Chris was pivotal in driving enterprise sales strategies and ensuring best practices in customer experience.
Throughout his career, Chris's specialties encompass a multitude of business challenges and opportunities, demonstrating his holistic understanding of the industry:
- Business Strategy, Revenue Growth, and Market Share Capture: Chris has consistently led initiatives that bolster organizational revenue and increase market penetration.
- Digital Enablement and Transformation: He has spearheaded various transformation projects, integrating innovative digital solutions that enhance operational efficiency.
- Cost Reduction and Margin Improvement: With a keen eye for detail, Chris has implemented strategies that streamline operations and maximize profitability.
- Business Development and Enterprise Sales: His skills in business development have driven significant growth for organizations, making him a sought-after leader in sales initiatives.
- Customer Experience and Advocacy Improvement: Chris’s commitment to customer-centric strategies has enhanced client satisfaction and loyalty across the organizations he has served.
- Product Development, Management, and Service Innovation: He has led numerous product innovations, ensuring that offerings remain competitive and relevant in the market.
- Business Model Design and Operational Excellence: His expertise in optimizing operations has led to improved performance and reduced risks for the organizations he has been affiliated with.
- Supplier, Partner, and Contract Management: Chris has successfully negotiated contracts and managed relationships that drive mutual benefits for all parties involved.
- Business Forensics and Root Cause Diagnosis: His analytical skills allow him to uncover underlying issues and devise effective remediation strategies.
- Technology Strategy, Design, and Implementation: Chris has a strong technological grasp, which has been a cornerstone of many successful collaborations and implementations throughout his career.
