Christopher Wynder

Dr. Christopher Wynder

Director, Product Marketing

OpenText

Created On: July 16, 2021
Sector:
Information Technology
Education Pathway: University
Related School Subjects:
Biology,  Biotechnology,  Business & Economics,  Computer Science,  Science

Learn About My Career

Dr. Christopher Wynder is the Director of Product Marketing for OpenText

I was born/grew up in: London, ON

I now live in: London, ON

I completed my training/education at:  This is my second career. My first was as a scientist. I have my Ph.D from Rockefeller University in Molecular Biology. I did my training in multiple places in the US. I came back to Canada as a Professor then started a biotechnology company. I then changed careers into IT consulting. I took an entry level position and worked my way up. Eventually I moved on to OpenText, a global software company.

In my first career as a scientist, I created several protocols that were instrumental in starting a new field. This field is called epigenetics. We used a variety of techniques including stem cells, spectrometry and genetic manipulation. In my second career, I help bring new software to market. I work with developers and do analysis using the skills I developed as a scientist.

This is not where I thought I would be. I had good success as a scientist but was politically naive which essentially cost me my career. Computers and software were always interesting and a true passion. This started off as something between academic opportunities but then it seemed that I was enjoying it. It gave me a way to have a career where my unique talents were very much a positive and I had more control of my fate.

My current career allows me the creative freedom to design content and strategies that get used across the globe. I provide a data driven and analytical approach. This has been great to help create something that makes my coworkers see an easier way to get their job done.

We are developing programs designed to increase career opportunities for minorities.

I play Rugby, coach rugby. I have taken up the banjo and do some minimal woodworking. I have in the past volunteered with the Brain Tumor Foundation of Canada.

Take chances, follow your interests. The money will come.

What I do at work

In my first career as a scientist, I created several protocols that were instrumental in starting a new field. This field is called epigenetics. We used a variety of techniques including stem cells, spectrometry and genetic manipulation. In my second career, I help bring new software to market. I work with developers and do analysis using the skills I developed as a scientist.

My career path is

This is not where I thought I would be. I had good success as a scientist but was politically naive which essentially cost me my career. Computers and software were always interesting and a true passion. This started off as something between academic opportunities but then it seemed that I was enjoying it. It gave me a way to have a career where my unique talents were very much a positive and I had more control of my fate.

I am motivated by

My current career allows me the creative freedom to design content and strategies that get used across the globe. I provide a data driven and analytical approach. This has been great to help create something that makes my coworkers see an easier way to get their job done.

How I affect peoples’ lives

We are developing programs designed to increase career opportunities for minorities.

Outside of work I

I play Rugby, coach rugby. I have taken up the banjo and do some minimal woodworking. I have in the past volunteered with the Brain Tumor Foundation of Canada.

My advice to others

Take chances, follow your interests. The money will come.

When I was a student I enjoyed:

  • Science
  • Technology
  • Computer Science

When I was a student, I would describe myself as someone who:

  • Enjoyed doing things on my own
  • Organized activities for my friends
  • Played on a sports team
  • Wanted to be in charge
  • Liked being given free range to explore my ideas
  • Liked reading
  • Always knew what I wanted to do
  • Liked to design or build things
  • Learned Best by Doing

Related Topics

Careers Computer Software Computers Consulting DNA Structure Genomics Information Technology Management Marketing Stem Cells

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