Chris was born in Sydney but has lived in Canberra all her adult life. She is currently Deputy Chancellor of the University of Canberra and sits as an independent director on several Government, Corporate and Not-for-Profit Boards. 

She is a member of the University of Canberra Council; the Australian Government’s Independent Communication Committee (ICC); and the Canberra Symphony Orchestra (CSO) and has recently completed terms on the National Capital Authority (NCA) and the City Renewal Authority (CRA).

Before her current role as an independent director, Chris had wide-ranging experience in business, government, policy and economic development. 

As the CEO of Canberra Business Council (CBC) (2007-2014), and transitional CEO of the merged Canberra Business Chamber (2014-2015), Chris developed a deep understanding of, and extensive connections into the business community in Canberra.

She has been a vocal advocate for economic development in Canberra and the surrounding region and has campaigned for policies and facilities that leverage off Canberra’s strategic advantages - as a knowledge economy; a tourist destination; and a world-class, “liveable” city with strong environmental, educational, sport and social assets and outcomes. 

Prior to her role at CBC, Chris spent 13 years working as a Senior Adviser to a number of Federal Government Ministers and as Chief of Staff to the President of the Senate.

She has a Bachelor of Arts Degree, Graduate Diplomas in Education and Business Administration and, in 2015, was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the University of Canberra for services to business and education. 

She is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (GAICD) and is committed to organisations practising good governance.

She is a respected member of the Canberra community and has developed broad networks within the Canberra community.

Chris has been a long-term supporter of the Brumbies - since their first game in 1996.

She and her husband became Foundation members in 2002.  Chris was elected to the Brumbies Board in October 2019.