Next Up Columbus 2020: Chris Elliott
Interview by Sarah Shumick
Name: Chris Elliott
Age: 37
Profession: Client Executive at Sirius Computer Solutions
Neighborhood: Lewis Center
Education: B.S. Business Administration and M.Ed. Business
Quote: “Our community is thriving and we have so many great things happening, being led by so many great people. To be chosen for Next Up is pretty cool. It’s something to be proud of.”
Connect: LinkedIn | Instagram
Chris Elliott’s career has led him from marketing to development roles with United Way of Central Ohio and most recently as the Executive Director for A Kid Again, a local organization that serves families and children with serious illnesses. After eight years in the nonprofit world, Elliott now serves as Client Executive for Sirius Computer Solutions. His true passion: hockey and his beloved Columbus Blue Jackets. He even serves on the board of the Capital Amateur Hockey Association. (It’s no surprise that as a child Elliott wanted to play in the NHL). When he’s not at work, Elliott enjoys spending time with his family – chasing his boys from one activity to the next – and finding time to play a round of golf.
Give us a snapshot of your career path:
Eight years ago I started to volunteer at United Way in Delaware County. Roughly the same time, they had opened up a development position. I left my role in marketing and started my non-profit career. On October 11, 2016 I was hired as the Executive Director for A Kid Again here in Central Ohio. I knew I wanted to continue working in the industry and have a direct impact on kids and families.
What gets you up in the morning? And what gets you through the workweek?
I love working with my team to provide experiences for the families that we serve.
What advice or mentors have helped guide you along the way?
Do what you love to do and work hard…..everything else will fall into place.
What do you do or where do you go to unwind?
I spend my time with family chasing my boys from one activity to the next. I am an avid golfer when I find the time. I also sit on the board for the Capital Amateur Hockey Association.
When you were a kid, what did you say you wanted to be when you grew up?
I wanted to play in the NHL.
What books or podcasts are you reading/listening to right now?
No Laying Up – Podcast
What does it mean to you to be chosen for the Next Up Columbus award?
I am honored to be selected. Our community is thriving and we have so many great things happening, being lead by so many great people. To be chosen for Next Up is pretty cool. Its something to be proud of.
If someone were to ask you what the “pulse” of Columbus is, what would you tell them?
I love my hockey! I would tell them our Columbus Blue Jackets, of course.
The Next Up Columbus Awards highlight emerging leaders who are connectors and ambassadors in Central Ohio and who are making a positive impact on the future of Columbus. Special thanks to the Columbus Young Professionals Club, Discover Financial, and Zipline Logistics for their support of this awards program. Meet the entire “Class of 2020” »