Chris Opperman Email & Phone Number

United States

Currently, I spearhead strategic initiatives and investor relations, with a specialized focus on driving impactful outcomes in Africa and the Middle East. In my role, I orchestrate strategic planning and adeptly translate geopolitical insights into tangible value. My primary areas of expertise lie in navigating public policy intricacies and cultivating a robust pipeline of private investors aligned with our company's investment thesis. This thesis centers on cutting-edge domains such as AI and digital services, infrastructure development, cybersecurity, revolutionary pebble bed modular nuclear reactors, and the dynamic realm of space exploration.

Gauteng, South Africa

Elevated investor relations at ITC by cultivating strategic partnerships with key entities such as Cassava Technologies, Liquid Telecoms South Africa, and Africa Data Centers. Spearheaded brand visibility initiatives by orchestrating a groundbreaking Disinformation Conference in Cape Town, a collaborative effort in partnership with the European Union, German, and Spanish Embassies. ITC, a distinguished portfolio company of C5 Capital, stands as a testament to my commitment to fostering impactful connections and driving brand recognition in the tech industry.

Washington D.C. Metro Area

Engaged as an independent associate with Baird's CMC, and collaborated with a dynamic team of specialists. Baird's CMC, alongside its esteemed partners, delivers unparalleled consulting services to companies, foundations, NGOs, and governments. My contribution included successfully securing a multinational client who was navigating a transformed stakeholder landscape that posed a threat to their business model.In response, we initiated a comprehensive qualitative stakeholder survey to gauge perceptions, presenting the findings to the Board of Directors. This resulted in a two-year, multifaceted contract aimed at implementing a stakeholder engagement strategy. Leveraging power and influencer maps, we scrutinized various business models and projects, strategically positioning them from a public relations perspective.Our recommendations extended to refining the focus of the company's social responsibility programs and innovating communication approaches with local communities. The outcomes were transformative—we orchestrated a perceptual turnaround for the multinational company, averted a potential relationship breakdown in Mozambique through strategic alignment across all organizational tiers, and facilitated the establishment of a new social contract for doing business in Mozambique.

Pretoria Area, South Africa

As the sole partner at Oppermankonsult, I lead a consultancy offering strategic services across Africa and the Middle East. Notably, I provided advisory services to a rapidly expanding SME that manufactures a range of fruit sorbets and exports to Europe and the United States. Despite the company's success in these markets, its rapid growth trajectory led to labour conflicts and stakeholder challenges that could jeopardize its brand reputation abroad.In response, I crafted a comprehensive three-tier strategy for the company. This included crisis management to avert a potential brand reputation crisis, a thorough review of its business model with a focus on empowering workers as brand ambassadors, and the development of an external communication strategy targeting investors, markets, and communities.IMPACT: I played a pivotal role in developing proposals and an implementation plan that significantly improved stakeholder relations. Engaged to assist with the execution of the plan, I am proud to have contributed to steering the company away from potential brand reputation challenges and ensuring its sustained success in core international markets.

Malawi

Principal Areas of Responsibility:After the acquisition of Hamra Oil, I took over management of this Exploration and Production company on behalf of Sheikh Saud bin Saqr al Qassimi of Ras al Khaimah.Formulated a comprehensive business plan for Hamra Oil.Pioneered a robust media liaison strategy and an internal communication plan.Handpicked and appointed key personnel to drive organizational success.Key Achievements:Spearheaded the development of a strategic initiative facilitating senior management engagement at Rakgas (parent company) with influential Malawian stakeholders, including a high-profile meeting with the President of Malawi.

Perth, Australia

Principal Areas of Responsibility:An integral part of a core team that conceptualized and established Swala Energy.Focused on crafting an expansive oil and gas exploration portfolio spanning various blocks across Africa.Devised a strategic approach to engage local African investors at the seed capital level in each country of operation.Presented a visionary local content strategy at the board level, fostering community involvement as shareholders in regions where exploration blocks were secured.Successfully concluded negotiations with key stakeholders in Tanzania, Kenya, and Zambia.Key Achievements:Effectively raised capital from local investors while engaging and empowering local communities as shareholders.Received special recognition from the Tanzanian Minister of Energy and the President.Orchestrated the involvement of prominent local business figures, culminating in the listing of Swala on the Dar es Salaam Stock Exchange.

Principal Areas of Responsibility:Founded and led the establishment of Rakgas Tanzania.Formulated a comprehensive key stakeholder strategy.Orchestrated negotiations securing rights for the development of a feasibility study for a gas pipeline from Mtwara to Dar es Salaam, extending to Mombasa.Devised a strategic plan enabling Rakgas to acquire a gas exploration block in Zanzibar.Successfully negotiated the acquisition of a series of oil and gas exploration blocks in Tanzania.Directed and managed the exploration program, ensuring operational efficiency.Conducted negotiations and finalized agreements with subcontractors.Oversaw the implementation of Social Corporate Responsibility policies in communities impacted by exploration activities.Managed commitments outlined in Production Sharing Agreements.Regularly reported progress to the Tanzanian government.Key Achievements:Established Rakgas Tanzania with the support and engagement of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr al Qassimi, Crown Prince of Ras al Khaimah.

Bjuris Llb, Banking, Corporate, Finance, And Securities Law

Law. Bjuris LLB

Bachelor Of Arts - Ba, Law

Bachelor'S Degree, Law

Activities and Societies: University Choir; College rugby; Comrades marathon