Christopher James Downs
Summary
Strategic and operational leader with 10+ years of experience in international education, government policy, and project management. Proven track record of leading cross-border teams, managing multimillion-euro budgets, and driving institutional growth. Deeply committed to the transformative power of education, combining commercial acumen with a human-centered approach. Fluent in English and Czech, with strong international and intercultural competencies.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Regional Director
LPP Holding A.s.
02.2022 - Current
- Oversaw business and project activities in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
- Directed large-scale budgets and high-stakes international operations.
- Managed full-cycle production and technology transfer to Saudi Arabia.
- Recruited expert talent and built high-performing cross-functional teams.
- Liaised with international banks, government stakeholders, and legal advisors.
- Ensured regulatory compliance across multiple jurisdictions.
English Language Teacher
Self-employeed
09.2015 - 01.2025
- Provided tailored English and German instruction to professionals and students. Taught from ages 7-80.
- Designed curricula for business communication and academic preparation.
- Maintained long-term client relationships with a results-driven approach.
- Balanced teaching schedule alongside executive-level responsibilities.
Business Development Manager
Board 1
01.2019 - 08.2021
- Quadrupled client base in one year through strategic B2B expansion.
- Led sales team and established after‑sales operations.
- Introduced transport and tourism solutions for EU markets.
Member of the Board
Czech Council of Higher Education Institutions
05.2018 - 08.2021
- Elected to the national board representing students across Czech higher education institutions.
- Advised the Ministry of Education on legislation, funding models, and academic policy reforms.
- Represented Czech students in negotiations with national and European education authorities.
- Operations Management for the entire body
- Contributed to strategic documents, coordinated expert working groups, and national education advocacy efforts.
Advisor to the President of the Czech Senate
Senát Parlamentu České Republiky
01.2019 - 01.2020
- Led policy advisory on education legislation and reforms.
- Negotiated with ministries, NGOs, and academia.
- Drafted briefings and strategic recommendations for Senate leadership.
- Represented Czech education interests in international forums.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - International Relations
Anglo-American University
Prague09-2019
Skills
- Strategic Planning & Operations
- Budget & Financial Oversight
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Education Policy & Governance
- Cross‑Functional Team Leadership
- Risk & Compliance Management
- Project Delivery & Execution
- Multicultural Communication
Languages
English
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Czech
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
German
Upper intermediate (B2)
French
Intermediate (B1)
Timeline
Regional Director
LPP Holding A.s.
02.2022 - Current
Business Development Manager
Board 1
01.2019 - 08.2021
Advisor to the President of the Czech Senate
Senát Parlamentu České Republiky
01.2019 - 01.2020
Member of the Board
Czech Council of Higher Education Institutions
05.2018 - 08.2021
English Language Teacher
Self-employeed
09.2015 - 01.2025
Bachelor of Arts - International Relations
Anglo-American University
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