Chris Stevens brings over 25 years of experience in software companies both in New Zealand and globally, blending a strong technical foundation with leadership in sales, contract negotiation, and account management. With degrees in Commerce and Science from the University of Auckland, Chris began his career in software development and has evolved into a versatile leader who supports innovation through strategic growth, partnerships, and commercial contracts.
As General Manager at academyEX, Chris focuses on driving the development of business strategy, maximizing growth opportunities, and championing both organisational and learner culture. His approach always considers the bigger system, asking “how can we do this better?” — a mindset that fuels continuous improvement and meaningful impact.
Chris is fascinated by the transformative role of AI across education, business, and technology, balanced with the growing need for critical thinking in an increasingly complex world. If he could meet any historical figure, it would be the Wright brothers, innovators who dared to do what had never been done before — a fitting inspiration for someone who’s passionate about innovation and growth.
His most memorable “15 minutes of fame” happened unexpectedly while representing his CEO in a high-level US government session on investing $21 billion in healthcare technology, an event even recognized on the White House’s Twitter feed. If Chris were to describe his life through film or song, it would be a mix of Tron, The Pirates of Silicon Valley, Planes, Trains and Automobiles, The Brady Bunch, and Fly Away by Lenny Kravitz — a journey full of tech, adventure, connection, and a desire to keep moving forward.
