Christopher has devoted his professional life to public service and is recognized both for his leadership and his responsiveness to the public he serves. He served as Acting Superintendent of Seattle Parks and Recreation, from 2009 to 2014 and again from 2017 to 2019, he currently serves as the Deputy Superintendent and Chief of Staff for Seattle Parks and Recreation.
Christopher manages the day-to-day operations, which include more than 1000 employees, 10 swimming pools, 26 community centers, three environmental learning centers, and the maintenance and operation of 6,200 acres of parkland containing 400 developed parks. Christopher has served Seattle Parks and Recreation in a variety of jobs and capacities during his over 26-year tenure.
Christopher is passionate about parks and recreation because he believes the work the organization does makes a difference in the lives of people in the community. He is known for the saying that “Seattle Parks and Recreation captures young people while they are in the “hope stages” of their development”. Christopher grew up in Seattle and is proud to be a product of the parks and recreation system he is now privileged to manage.
Christopher is a graduate of Columbia University. He spent eight years as a commissioned officer in the U.S. Marine Corps and holds a Master of Business Administration. In March 2011, Christopher was recognized by the Municipal League of King County as the Public Employee of the Year. In 2011, Christopher was also recognized by the National Recreation and Parks Association and presented with a R.O.S.E. (Recognition of Significant Efforts) Award for his professional contribution to the field of Park and Recreation.
Christopher is a member of the Seattle Management Association, Washington Recreation and Parks Association, and the National Recreation and Parks Association. He serves as a board member of City Parks Alliance, a member of the Executive Committee of the Central Waterfront Partnerships Committee, an ex-officio member of the Zoo Board of Directors, the Seattle Aquarium Board of Directors, and the Arboretum Botanical Garden Committee.
