Christopher Ophardt

About Christopher Ophardt

Lt. Col. Christopher D. Ophardt, USA (Ret.), is a decorated U.S. Army veteran, accomplished business consultant, and trusted communications strategist with over two decades of distinguished military and civilian leadership.Chris launched his military career as a field artillery officer, where he led combat operations in Western Baghdad and provided critical support to Special Operations Forces during three deployments to Iraq. He served as a senior advisor and spokesperson for top-tier military and government leaders, including the Secretary of the Army and the Superintendent of the United States Military Academy at West Point. His strategic communication leadership shaped national conversations around military operations, crisis response, and institutional transparency, reinforcing public trust in the Army’s mission at home and abroad.His leadership excellence earned him multiple commendations, including the Combat Action Badge, two Bronze Stars, and the prestigious Legion of Merit. Throughout his 20-year Army career, he progressed through increasingly complex roles, ultimately leading integrated military and civilian teams with precision and vision.In the private sector, Chris brings this same discipline and clarity to help organizations strengthen their reputation, navigate adversity, and foster lasting growth. Known for his integrity and results-driven approach, he combines a strong operational mindset with executive-level communication expertise to guide businesses, nonprofits, and government entities through transformative change. He holds an MBA with honors and remains a committed mentor to high-performing teams across industries.Deeply rooted in service beyond the uniform, Chris served as the elected President of his 800-home Property Owners Association and was the founding Chairman of the Sea Island Heritage Academy Board, a new charter school in St. Helena, South Carolina. He also served as President of the Hilton Head Sigma Chi Alumni Chapter and continues to give back as a mentor, coach, and tutor in his community.

Experience

1. Public Relations Consultant

   Town Of Yemassee

   Mar 2023 — Present

   Provides communication services for clients looking to connect with citizens and customers. Services include developing crisis communications and media strategies; drafting press releases and responding to queries; crafting talking points, opening statements, and speeches; developing social media engagement strategy and managing social media pages; providing targeted media analysis, social media, and messaging. Assessments.

Education

• Drake University

  Bachelor of Arts (BA), History

  1997 — 2001

• Webster University

  Master of Business Administration - MBA, Business Administration and Management, General

Skills

• Leadership
• Management
• Social Media
• Public Relations
• Military Operations
• Dod
• National Security
• Operational Planning
• Security Clearance
• Military Experience