Chris Cotton

Background

About Chris Cotton

SYSTEMS THINKER / UNIFIER / COLLABORATOR Known for taking a disciplined approach for examining problems more completely and accurately before acting by asking probing questions, I offer a breadth of strategic and operational planning experience to the task at hand. I work by the principle that teams can be more than the sum of the people we select by creating a collaborative environment founded on trust. I have extensive large-team leadership experience in complex, fast-paced environments. Experienced in spearheading transformative projects that optimize outcomes and create meaningful outcomes. Adept at building exemplary relationships and trusting partnerships with stakeholders internally and externally, and solving complicated, dynamic issues with a reasoned approach. Praised by subordinates, peers, and superiors for the ways I value and respect the dignity of all people, I thrive on bringing people together to create and drive vision, build bridges, and identify growth opportunities. These attributes, in my previous career in the Canadian Armed Forces, are called “force multipliers” that help lead major change, and optimize results based on a foundation of seeking and absorbing input from all stakeholders. Regarded as a steady, approachable, and caring leader, superiors have called me a positive corporate influence who leads with a solutions-focused approach, striving for service excellence with an unwavering resolve. Having lived in six provinces, worked in all 10, and lived and deployed internationally, has broadened my horizons and given me a first-hand understanding of cognitive and cultural diversity, the plight of the marginalized, and the importance of the subtle ways in which people can be convinced that they belong. I am fluent in English and French.