Steve Chriest

Education

B.A. University of California, Santa Barbara

Experience

With more than 25 years of experience in sales and sales management, marketing, business development and negotiations at the C-level in a variety of industries, Steve brings a diversified business background to his training and consulting engagements.

Viewing his role as that of a strategic consultant to clients, Mr. Chriest helps organizations build competencies in negotiation and sales performance.  In addition to providing negotiation training to sales audiences, he has played a key role in assisting organizations in the development of comprehensive, corporate sales processes that integrate strategy, core training programs, sales tools and management systems. 

Mr. Chriest has worked with clients such as Microsoft, Amgen, Nuance Communications, Ramtron International, CNET Networks, Charles Schwab, IDG, CBS Interactive, Novartis, Owens and Minor, Caridian BCT, Wellpoint, Anthem Blue Shield Blue Cross, Levi Strauss, Principal Financial Group, and Swagelok.

Prior to his role as an Accordence facilitator, Mr. Chriest served in various positions such as CEO of a business consulting and database software development firm, where he authored the company’s first strategic plan.  He directed the company’s diversification into Web programming, vertical market product development, and network integration services. 

As CEO of a national finance organization, Mr. Chriest developed long-term vendor relationships and maintained successful alliances with numerous national wholesale banking and finance organizations.  He negotiated and secured $375 million dollars in Purchase Facilities from national banking institutions. 

Since 1990, he has been President of Adults Toward Independent Living, a San Jose, California non-profit organization dedicated to providing independent living environments for adults with severe spinal cord injuries.