Chris Laffin Ph.D CEng

Observer
DISC Type : ci

Integration Program Manager at Vantive

Greater Minneapolis-St. Paul Area, United States

Overview

Chris is a chartered engineer with over 18 years of experience, holding a PhD in polymer engineering from Queens University Belfast. He has deep expertise in polymer processing and subsea engineering, and recently managed the global launch of the Transitions GenS product line before joining Vantive as an Integration Program Manager.

He is currently navigating a significant personal transition, having recently moved internationally for a new professional adventure. This move follows a dedicated career break focused on personal health and well-being, indicating a strong value placed on life balance.

Unique fact: He possesses a rare combination of expertise with a doctorate in polymer engineering and specialized knowledge in subsea engineering.

Personality Overview

Assertive

Example Seeker

Curious

They often ask many questions and rely heavily on information and documentation.  They are generally good communicators and can be hard to convince. They can sound friendly and charming but can quickly change gears to become inquisitive and probing.

Topics They Care About

New Product Launches
As Global Program Manager, he led the team that delivered the "Gen S" product line (Gen Smart, Gen Speed, Gen Style), a project he was publicly proud of.
Polymer Engineering
This is his core academic and professional expertise, with a PhD in the field and extensive skills in polymer processing like extrusion, electrospinning, and injection moulding.
Career & Life Transitions
He recently undertook a major life change, moving internationally for a new role at Vantive following a career break dedicated to personal well-being.

Media Appearances

Chris has no verified media appearances

Work History

6-2025
Integration Program Manager at Vantive
6-2024 - 5-2025
Health and well-being at Career Break
10-2023 - 6-2024
Global Program Manager at Transitions Optical
6-2021 - 10-2023
Innovation Project Manager at Transitions Optical
12-2019 - 6-2021
Program Manager at Medtronic

Education

2002 - 2006
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from Queen's University Belfast
2002 - 2002
Master of Science (MSc) from Stellenbosch University/Universiteit Stellenbosch

More Information

Social Presence :

Prographics :

Exp : 19 Location : Greater Minneapolis-St. Paul Area, United States Job Level : Middle Designation : Integration Program Manager at Vantive
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Insights For Selling To Chris

During A Call Or A Meeting

DO's

  • Help them understand the risk aspect fully while inspiring confidence
  • Help them realize that there is no personal risk in making this decision
  • Focus on immediate action-items rather than the larger goals

DONT's

  • Don’t try to rush them into a decision, provide all necessary information first
  • Don’t brush off any concerns, take all questions seriously
  • Don’t be too objective but make sure to pad your storytelling with data points

When Cold Calling

When Writing An Email

While Negotiating & Closing

    The secret to closing fast with Chris is

  • Clear proof of product value matters to them, followed by others' testimonials and rapport.
  • Will you ever get a clear answer from Chris

  • They are practical and friendly, don't expect a clear-cut response often.

Insights For Deal Planning

    How fast (or slow) will Chris move?

  • They like to be detailed and take their time to arrive at decisions.
  • Can Chris take some risk or not?

  • They systematically evaluate all decisions and are unlikely to take many risks.

You And Chris

Personality Compatibility


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