Q. Hi Chris, thank you for taking the time, can you tell us a little about your company?
I lead Vanwin Coatings of VA, LLC. We provide high performance protective coating systems to multiple markets, including manufacturing, ship repair, heavy industrial, and the defense industry.
Q. What inspired you to become a CEO?
When this opportunity presented itself, it was unique in that we would be taking over a legacy family business. It offered a platform to implement many of the strategies and tools I’ve learned over my career.
Q. What’s been your biggest challenge as a CEO, and how did you overcome it?
I would say there are two: Culture Shift and Talent Development.
As legacy businesses grow from their founding, culture often develops incidentally over time—especially if there isn’t a strong driving force to define and sustain core values. Change takes real effort and tenacity, and shifting values doesn’t happen overnight. Getting the team on board and driving that change can feel like a daily grind. It’s a long-term project, and the work is always evolving. We use every opportunity we can to develop our company culture, but there’s still work to do.
As for Talent Development—this is a challenge I see across any business that relies on skilled labor and trades. The people willing to do the work we do, and the SMEs who direct it, are a diminishing resource. We’re always hunting for new talent and working to retain and develop the high performers we currently have.
Q. What’s one accomplishment you’re especially proud of in your business journey?
I’m especially proud of my current leadership team. Some came from previous leadership roles, and others have stepped up into their respective positions. I love seeing someone experience professional and personal growth, and I’ve been fortunate to witness that here with this team.
Q. How has being a member of VACEOs impacted your leadership or business?
We may have friends or business colleagues we can get advice from, but those relationships often come with conditions or conflicts of interest. We’re all part of VACEOs because we want to learn and grow, and that shared purpose creates a safe space to be candid. To me, that’s incredibly worthwhile.
Q. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to a new or aspiring CEO?
First and foremost—it’s all about communication. Be a good communicator, and the rest will follow. Personally and professionally, the people you interact with just want to be heard. I always try to listen with intent and remember that your words and how you interact with others will greatly define your success.
Q. How do you stay sharp as a leader?
I try to keep my day-to-day as structured as possible. I’ve also learned to recognize when I need a mental break. When I feel overwhelmed, I take personal time—even if it’s brief—to reconnect with myself.
Q. How do you define success—for yourself and your business?
For me, success as a leader comes when I see someone in the organization grow personally and professionally. There’s joy in mastering the trade and raising the bar—not just for yourself, but for those around you.
From a business perspective, of course we need to be profitable, but I also see success as having a company that people want to work for, where they see a career path and are given the tools they need to get there.
Q. What’s next for you and your company?
In the short term, we’re opening our new sandblasting facility this month, which should increase our capacity by around 25%.
Long term—we’re exploring technologies and processes that will open new industry opportunities. Vanwin is fortunate to be diversified in what we do, and we’re in a great geographic location to support growth into new markets.
Q. And finally, what’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know?
I’ve had people say my hobby is collecting hobbies. I love learning new sports, so there’s always something new I’m getting into!
We appreciate Chris Gerarge for sharing his story! Based in Hampton Roads, Chris brings valuable perspective to VACEOs as we strengthen connections across Virginia. Vanwin Coatings is growing fast with new capabilities and a commitment to culture and talent development. We’re excited to see Hampton Roads CEOs shaping the future of business in the Commonwealth!
Explore Hampton Roads CEO networking and leadership resources at VACEOs.
