About
Christopher D. Lee
Ph.D., SPHR, SHRM-SCP
From entry-level hires to college presidencies — Chris has helped place people at every rung of the ladder, for nearly 30 years.
Nearly 30
Years helping job seekers
100+
Articles, podcasts & talks
4
Books authored
5
Countries — US, Canada, Australia, NZ, South Africa
Practitioner
I spent nearly 30 years as a Chief Human Resources Officer at three very different institutions: William & Mary, the nation's second-oldest university; the Virginia Community College System, a 23-college network across the commonwealth; and Bates College, one of the nation's top 25 liberal arts colleges. Today I'm Managing Director at Storbeck Search, where I recruit and place C-suite executives at colleges and universities nationwide. I've seen the search process from every seat at the table.
Author
I've authored four books — two focused on the higher education search committee process — and write an “Ask-the-Expert” column for HigherEdJobs.com. Across articles, podcasts, and presentations, I've published or presented over 100 resources on how to find and win employment in higher education, including Performance Conversations and Search Committees: A Comprehensive Guide to Faculty, Staff, & Administrative Selection. A new book on job search is on the way for late 2026 or early 2027.
Consultant
As an active executive search consultant, I'm in the market right now — fielding applications, building candidate slates, and advising institutions on what they actually need in their next hire. That real-time, inside perspective is what I've built into this platform.
Professor
I teach graduate-level HR courses at the University of Richmond and previously wrote exam questions for the PHR and SPHR certifications through HRCI. I hold a master's degree in HR Management and a Ph.D. in HR Development, and I'm twice-certified as an HR professional (SPHR, SHRM-SCP). I'm also a retired Lieutenant Colonel from the United States Marine Corps Reserves.
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