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Before stepping into the world of risk mitigation and process improvement at American Express, Christopher’s path began on Long Island, New York, where his passion for people, communication, and critical thinking took root early on. At Quinnipiac University in Connecticut, he explored a broad academic path—majoring in Media Studies and Communications while minoring in both Fine Arts and Sports Studies.
“I was always curious about how different areas connect: media, sports, the arts. It helped me develop a creative mindset,” Christopher says.
After earning his undergraduate degree, he stayed on to complete his MBA, further sharpening his business and analytical thinking. But like many students navigating the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, Christopher found himself without traditional internship opportunities. That’s when an unexpected role opened the door to life-changing soft skills: caddying at Bethpage Black, the PGA golf course known for hosting some of the most prestigious tournaments in the country.
“I wasn’t sure where it would lead, but it ended up being a pivotal experience,” he recalls. “Spending hours walking alongside strangers from all backgrounds helped me build communication skills, read people, and learn the art of conversation. It was a masterclass in client relations.”
Caddying didn't just offer him a paycheck, it introduced him to a sport he’d grow to love and a community he’s still connected to. He now takes annual golf trips with friends he met on the course, proving that even the most unplanned moments can become the most meaningful.
Christopher eventually made his way into the marketing and media world, joining MediaPlanet as a Sales Project Manager before being promoted to Business Development Manager. There, he led sales teams, built client campaigns, and developed leadership experience that would become the cornerstone of his next professional chapter.
That chapter began when Tarah from Blend reached out.
Originally, the conversation centered around a Marketing Execution Analyst role, which aligned with his early project management work. But after reviewing his resume and hearing more about his business development background, Tarah realized he might be a better fit for something different—a position focused on control management and operational excellence at American Express.
It turned out to be the perfect match.
“When I learned more about the role and what the team was trying to achieve, it clicked,” Christopher says. “The work was rooted in structure and detail, but it also gave room for creativity and independent thinking which is exactly what I enjoy.”
Now, as a Control Management Consultant on the U.S. Consumer Services Marketing Enablement Risk Mitigation Team, Christopher plays a key role in identifying risks, improving marketing processes, and driving quality control within the marketing function of one of the world’s largest financial institutions.
Christopher’s current role combines critical thinking, collaboration, and real-world impact. His team evaluates how marketing offers are set up in internal systems and proactively looks for ways to reduce manual errors that could lead to operational risk.
He’s especially proud of a recent high-pressure project that showcased his ability to deliver under tight timelines with little to no direction. Right before Memorial Day weekend, Christopher and a teammate were handed an urgent request from an external group—with no structure or guidelines to work from.
“There was no process, no instructions. Just the problem and a deadline,” he says. “We had to create everything from scratch, communication flows, document sharing systems, intake processes, and quality checks.”
In just a day and a half, they built a system that worked. The request was fulfilled on time, and the framework they designed is now being referenced for future needs.
“That experience reminded me of why I love this work. It was intense, but also really fulfilling. It’s not just about getting something done, it’s about building something that lasts.”
While the work itself is rewarding, Christopher is quick to credit the team culture and leadership as key drivers of his day-to-day motivation.
“What gets me out of bed every morning is the people I work with,” he shares. “My director, Maria, creates a space where we feel empowered to lead solutions and think for ourselves. She encourages creativity, autonomy, and growth. You don’t always get that kind of leadership.”
He also values the camaraderie within the team. “We support each other, we share laughs—even when the work gets stressful. That sense of connection and mutual respect goes a long way.”
For many professionals, the idea of working as a contractor can feel uncertain—but for Christopher, it's been an opportunity to bring fresh perspective and prove his value.
Christopher also views the role as a chance to showcase what he brings to the table.
“When you’re on a contract, you know there’s a clock on your time. That gives you an extra push to go above and beyond. You’re constantly thinking: how can I contribute in a way that makes me indispensable?”
His mindset is simple: “If I’m in the door, I’m not going to give them a reason to ask me to leave.”
With a strong foundation built over the past year, Christopher is setting his sights on the next chapter, starting with a transition into a full-time position at American Express. But for him, it’s not just about landing a role; it’s about leading with intention and making a lasting impact.
“I’d love to lead a team in the next few years—specifically one that’s focused on creative and critical thinking to drive solutions. I’ve always seen myself as a coach. I love supporting others, helping them grow, and creating an environment where people can do their best work.”
Whether he's designing new processes, mentoring teammates, or solving complex challenges, Christopher is motivated by growth—his own, his team’s, and the company’s. He thrives in environments where innovation meets execution, and his calm, collaborative approach continues to earn trust and drive results.
From the fairways of Bethpage Black to the front lines of operational excellence at American Express, Christopher’s journey is a testament to adaptability, leadership, and the power of perspective. His story is still unfolding, but one thing’s clear: he’s just getting started.
Before stepping into the world of risk mitigation and process improvement at American Express, Christopher’s path began on Long Island, New York, where his passion for people, communication, and critical thinking took root early on. At Quinnipiac University in Connecticut, he explored a broad academic path—majoring in Media Studies and Communications while minoring in both Fine Arts and Sports Studies.
“I was always curious about how different areas connect: media, sports, the arts. It helped me develop a creative mindset,” Christopher says.
After earning his undergraduate degree, he stayed on to complete his MBA, further sharpening his business and analytical thinking. But like many students navigating the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, Christopher found himself without traditional internship opportunities. That’s when an unexpected role opened the door to life-changing soft skills: caddying at Bethpage Black, the PGA golf course known for hosting some of the most prestigious tournaments in the country.
“I wasn’t sure where it would lead, but it ended up being a pivotal experience,” he recalls. “Spending hours walking alongside strangers from all backgrounds helped me build communication skills, read people, and learn the art of conversation. It was a masterclass in client relations.”
Caddying didn't just offer him a paycheck, it introduced him to a sport he’d grow to love and a community he’s still connected to. He now takes annual golf trips with friends he met on the course, proving that even the most unplanned moments can become the most meaningful.
Christopher eventually made his way into the marketing and media world, joining MediaPlanet as a Sales Project Manager before being promoted to Business Development Manager. There, he led sales teams, built client campaigns, and developed leadership experience that would become the cornerstone of his next professional chapter.
That chapter began when Tarah from Blend reached out.
Originally, the conversation centered around a Marketing Execution Analyst role, which aligned with his early project management work. But after reviewing his resume and hearing more about his business development background, Tarah realized he might be a better fit for something different—a position focused on control management and operational excellence at American Express.
It turned out to be the perfect match.
“When I learned more about the role and what the team was trying to achieve, it clicked,” Christopher says. “The work was rooted in structure and detail, but it also gave room for creativity and independent thinking which is exactly what I enjoy.”
Now, as a Control Management Consultant on the U.S. Consumer Services Marketing Enablement Risk Mitigation Team, Christopher plays a key role in identifying risks, improving marketing processes, and driving quality control within the marketing function of one of the world’s largest financial institutions.
Christopher’s current role combines critical thinking, collaboration, and real-world impact. His team evaluates how marketing offers are set up in internal systems and proactively looks for ways to reduce manual errors that could lead to operational risk.
He’s especially proud of a recent high-pressure project that showcased his ability to deliver under tight timelines with little to no direction. Right before Memorial Day weekend, Christopher and a teammate were handed an urgent request from an external group—with no structure or guidelines to work from.
“There was no process, no instructions. Just the problem and a deadline,” he says. “We had to create everything from scratch, communication flows, document sharing systems, intake processes, and quality checks.”
In just a day and a half, they built a system that worked. The request was fulfilled on time, and the framework they designed is now being referenced for future needs.
“That experience reminded me of why I love this work. It was intense, but also really fulfilling. It’s not just about getting something done, it’s about building something that lasts.”
While the work itself is rewarding, Christopher is quick to credit the team culture and leadership as key drivers of his day-to-day motivation.
“What gets me out of bed every morning is the people I work with,” he shares. “My director, Maria, creates a space where we feel empowered to lead solutions and think for ourselves. She encourages creativity, autonomy, and growth. You don’t always get that kind of leadership.”
He also values the camaraderie within the team. “We support each other, we share laughs—even when the work gets stressful. That sense of connection and mutual respect goes a long way.”
For many professionals, the idea of working as a contractor can feel uncertain—but for Christopher, it's been an opportunity to bring fresh perspective and prove his value.
Christopher also views the role as a chance to showcase what he brings to the table.
“When you’re on a contract, you know there’s a clock on your time. That gives you an extra push to go above and beyond. You’re constantly thinking: how can I contribute in a way that makes me indispensable?”
His mindset is simple: “If I’m in the door, I’m not going to give them a reason to ask me to leave.”
With a strong foundation built over the past year, Christopher is setting his sights on the next chapter, starting with a transition into a full-time position at American Express. But for him, it’s not just about landing a role; it’s about leading with intention and making a lasting impact.
“I’d love to lead a team in the next few years—specifically one that’s focused on creative and critical thinking to drive solutions. I’ve always seen myself as a coach. I love supporting others, helping them grow, and creating an environment where people can do their best work.”
Whether he's designing new processes, mentoring teammates, or solving complex challenges, Christopher is motivated by growth—his own, his team’s, and the company’s. He thrives in environments where innovation meets execution, and his calm, collaborative approach continues to earn trust and drive results.
From the fairways of Bethpage Black to the front lines of operational excellence at American Express, Christopher’s journey is a testament to adaptability, leadership, and the power of perspective. His story is still unfolding, but one thing’s clear: he’s just getting started.
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