Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
References
Chris Claeys

Chris Claeys

Greater Detroit,MI

Summary

Visionary leader and strategist recognized for driving change and innovation with new technology in rental equipment industries using mobile battery energy storage systems, power generation, fluid handling and HVAC rental solutions. Background includes engineering roles in the US Navy, supported by advanced degrees in business strategy from the Kelley School of Business.

Overview

36
36
years of professional experience

Work History

Vice President, Business Development

Ampd Energy USA
08.2023 - 11.2025
  • Drove paradigm shift towards mobile battery energy storage systems, replacing diesel generators for temporary power.
  • Established partnership with Uperio USA, enabling four successful pilot projects in the USA.
  • Led safety initiatives following a serious injury event, achieving zero incidents globally since implementation.
  • Collaborated with global business development to standardize partnership strategies across markets.
  • Identified film and media market needs, leading to pilot opportunities with Netflix and Disney.
  • Developed use case for electrified tunneling equipment, enhancing product applicability in construction and mining.

Director of Sales, Construction

Sunbelt Rentals Climate Control Services
08.2021 - 08.2023
  • Drove national construction segment strategy, generating $200MM revenue across 80 locations and 200 sellers.
  • Formulated and executed pre-construction 'Spec-In' sales strategy with top US general and mechanical contractors.
  • Built and managed a national sales team of 17 strategic account representatives, doubling revenue in 24 months.
  • Integrated Salesforce CRM to enhance sales tracking and reporting efficiency.
  • Developed and implemented comprehensive sales training for over 200 sellers through various formats.
  • Led IT project to create innovative estimating software for improved project accuracy.
  • Directed marketing initiatives across print, social media, and video channels to boost brand visibility.

Regional Manager (Director), Northeast Region

Sunbelt Rentals Climate Control Services
01.2018 - 08.2021
  • Oversaw full sales, operational, and P&L responsibilities for eight locations providing engineered climate control solutions.
  • Achieved 100% revenue growth over three years while increasing EBITA percentage.
  • Led integration of two acquisitions with complete staff retention.
  • Doubled facility capacity by strategically relocating six locations and opening one Greenfield site.
  • Developed unique mentor program to double salesforce and realign territories.
  • Cultivated cross-divisional relationships within organization, becoming primary collaborator.
  • Established new safety culture, acting as a cultural change agent.
  • Directed team to successfully close largest construction heat project in company history.

District Manager

Herc Rentals ProSolutions
05.2015 - 12.2017
  • Executed startup of six Greenfield locations across Midwest and Northeast, overseeing staffing and budgeting.
  • Drove over 250% growth in fleet rental value within 18 months.
  • Introduced HVAC and Power solutions, establishing market for complete turnkey rentals.
  • Held full accountability for sales, operations, and P&L across all locations.
  • Managed comprehensive sales planning to support new location launches.

Regional Sales Manager Midwest

Rain For Rent
02.2003 - 05.2014
  • Expanded the rental market from three basic tank rental locations to seven locations delivering fully engineered fluid solutions.
  • Mentored five OSRs into advanced and senior positions, enhancing team capabilities.
  • The transformed sales team post-2008 recession achieved record-breaking results by re-engineering processes.
  • Redesigned territories and sales strategies while removing underperformers and retaining top talent.
  • Revitalized a failing profit center, recognized for the best turnaround efforts in 2011.

Machinists Mate Second Class, E-5

United States Navy
09.1989 - 09.1994
  • Operated and maintained ship’s power generation, propulsion, HVAC, and desalinization systems.
  • Achieved highest qualified E-4 rank in ship’s history for Engineroom Supervisor role.
  • Received Commanding Officer Letter of Commendation for leading main engine line shaft bearing replacement during Atlantic crossing.
  • Participated in multiple deployments including Bosnia UN Operation 'Deny Flight' and Counter-Narcotics Operations.

Education

Master of Science - Business Strategy

Kelley School of Business, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN
05.2013

Master of Business Administration - Bloomington, IN

Kelley School of Business, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN
05.2012

Executive Leadership Certificate - Chapel Hill, NC

Kenan-Flagler School of Business, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
12.2018

Bachelor of Arts - Philosophy

University of Illinois, Chicago, IL
05.1998
  • Phi Beta Kappa, Honors College
  • Graduated Magna Cum Laude

Applied Nuclear Engineering Technology - Mechanical Track

US Naval Nuclear Power School, Orlando, FL
01.1990

Skills

  • Strategic planning and execution
  • Market development
  • Product management
  • Change management
  • Leadership and team building
  • Marketing strategies
  • Financial analysis
  • Operational efficiency
  • Sales leadership
  • Mergers and acquisitions
  • Startup development
  • Budget management
  • Battery energy storage systems (BESS)
  • Pump systems
  • Power and electrical systems
  • HVAC systems
  • Water and wastewater markets
  • Construction markets
  • Dewatering solutions
  • Entertainment industry expertise
  • Mining and quarry markets
  • Refinery markets
  • Oil and gas markets

References

References available upon request.

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