Chris Bontrager

As the Vice President of the Western Region, Christopher oversees operations for Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, Arizona, California, Oregon, and Washington. He works with the team to bring retail development to client communities.

Prior to joining Retail Strategies, Christopher was the Executive Director of the Marengo County Economic Development Authority where he led the county’s economic and community development efforts. He also previously served as the Vice President of C3 of Northwest Alabama EDA, a three-county economic development alliance that serves Fayette, Lamar, and Marion Counties. While at C3, Christopher directed business retention and expansion as well as workforce development. Both Marengo County and the C3 Region experienced significant economic growth during Christopher’s tenure.

Christopher is currently the SEDC Southeast Regional Director, and has served on committees with SEDC, EDAA, as well as boards for the Alabama Regional Workforce Development Councils, and the Northwest Alabama Habitat for Humanity. He also serves on the junior board of Birmingham Landmarks Inc., a 501-c3 organization that owns and maintains Birmingham’s historic Alabama and Lyric theatres.