GET TO KNOW CHRIS

As FDG’s Director of Finance, Chris applies his unique understanding of the design industry to systematically make our business partners and team members happy with both financial strategy and a keen sense of (sarcastic) humor. A proud Longhorn, Chris received his Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from the University of Texas in Austin, a school renowned for its accounting program. With more than 25 years of diverse experience under his belt, the Faulkner Family welcomed Chris to the team back in 2016.

Typically a sounding board for any initiative in the office, Chris gives insightful advice based on his financial sense and vast experience. And if you’re lucky, it may be wrapped in a bit of perfectly timed humor that may take a second to fully comprehend. But in the end, his guidance leads the FDG team to aspirations that are both attainable and cost-effective, and his swift sarcasm and clever quips always leave a memorable impression, endearing him to the FDG family as “The Comedian.”

Born in San Angelo, TX, but with strong Grecian heritage, Chris has a love for Greece. Having traveled to this cultured country many times, Chris’ favorite activities include sight-seeing and eating delectable Greek cuisine (although, his all-time favorite dish is the Italian comfort food dish, cacio e pepe). Chris’ favorite color is green, which reminds him of his favorite season - Spring. As a man of refined taste, Chris loves the classics - black and white films, superheroes such as Superman, and novels like “Great Expectations.” Check out our “FDG Round-Table” where we ask a few team members about Chris and his myriad of interests.

FDG ROUND-TABLE

Participants - Director of Finance, Chris, Senior Project Manager, Alison, and Project Manager, Brandi

Q: What’s your favorite memory of Chris?

A: One time, we ran into each other in Bishop Arts. Conversation included me asking, “Oh! Do you live over here?” to which he replied, “Oh, God no.” - Brandi

Q: What is Chris’ catchphrase?

A: “Oh, God no.” – Brandi

Q: What is your go-to karaoke song?

A: Don’t have one, because I never have, nor will I ever, sing karaoke. – Chris

Q: What’s your favorite thing about Chris?

A: Even with the dress code change (to more causal), he still dresses SO CLASSY. – Brandi

Q: What annoys Chris the most?

A: Incorrect Excel spreadsheets… – Alison

Q: What is your hidden talent?

A: Playing the cello. Let’s just say my favorite piece is Bach’s Cello Piece, No. 1, but that doesn’t mean I like hearing myself play it. – Chris

Q: What is one fact about Chris that you find interesting?

A: He once told me he goes to (a specific) Central Market every Saturday at 10:00 A.M. Since then, I have been several times – trying to run into him – and have never seen the guy. – Brandi

Q: What do you most admire about Chris?

A: He is a role model for “grace under pressure.” He is always calm, patient, and confident. – Alison

Q: What is your favorite holiday?

A: My birthday… which should be a national holiday. – Chris

Q: What song best describes Chris?

A: The Tennis US Open theme song, probably. – Brandi

Q: What is something you would love for others to know about Chris?

A: He is extremely generous and thoughtful, in case you haven’t noticed already. – Alison

Q: What is Chris addicted to?

A: Cheez-its, of course. – Alison

Q: What is your favorite part of working at FDG?

A: Seeing the results of the talents of the designers and architects. – Chris

Q: What is something that is unique or quirky about Chris?

A: He loves golf year-round (even during hot Texas summers) and is a HUGE tennis fanatic. Every September – without fail – he attends the US Open. (Except for 2020, of course.) – Alison

Q: Who is Chris’ celebrity doppelganger?

A: Roger Federer. – Alison and Brandi