Chris Carr has experience that’s given him insights into both sides of the supply chain, which isn’t surprising considering he studied business, sales, logistics and transportation at UT Knoxville.

After graduation, he returned to Memphis and started his career at MS Carriers/MS Logistics.  That company later merged with five other major logistics firms to form Transplace.com, a dynamic startup-like environment with an impressive customer base. At Transplace, Chris gained invaluable experience in both the logistics and carrier sides of the industry and connected with inspiring leaders and CEOs from North America’s top trucking companies.

He later went to work for Williams-Sonoma, a pivotal move that introduced him to the customer side of supply chain management. There he joined a talented team tasked with bringing all transportation operations in-house, which challenged him with a steep but rewarding learning curve.

While at Williams-Sonoma, Chris built strong relationships with carriers nationwide, including C.A.T., a Canadian carrier. That connection led to an exciting opportunity in 2005, when Chris partnered to launch a Memphis office for C.A.T. with just 25 trucks.

“Growing the fleet to over 50 was a dream come true, though the 2008-2009 financial crisis forced us to make tough decisions,” said Chris.  “We pivoted to a fully non-asset model, and in 2010, we rebranded as C.A.T. Global, with Memphis as the flagship branch. Over the past 15 years, we’ve steadily grown and thrived here.”

Today C.A.T. Global is a North American logistics provider serving the U.S., Canada and Mexico. The company employs 25 in the Memphis office, with a broader presence across the continent.  Chris is the company’s senior partner.

Chris was born and raised in Memphis and attended CBHS before heading to UT Knoxville, where he earned a degree in logistics and transportation, now known as supply chain management.  After graduating from UT, he returned to Memphis and married Hallie Carr.  They have three children:  Hudson, Macie and Hayes. Hudson plays golf at Spring Hill College, Macie is a senior at Hutchison planning to attend the University of Georgia, and Hayes has followed his dad’s footsteps and is a sophomore at CBHS.

Chris looks to his wife for strength.  “My wife, Hallie, is my rock. She keeps me steady and grounded, especially when life gets chaotic—her influence is unmatched.”

Chris and Hallie own a home on 30A in Florida, which Chris says is the family’s “go-to escape where we unwind and soak in the beach’s natural beauty.”  Chris said he loves hitting the golf course, skiing down slopes and casting a line while fishing.  “Each helps me recharge in its own way,” he said.  Chris also said he’s “drawn to business and finance reads—standouts include Good to Great for its timeless leadership insights, The Psychology of Money for its fresh take on wealth and How to Make a Few Billion Dollars for its bold perspective.”

Chris is decidedly pro-Memphis, and C.A.T. Global’s investment in the Chairman’s Circle reflects that.  “Memphis feels real—its authenticity and untapped potential are what inspire me most about this city,” he said.  “We joined the Chairman’s Circle to connect with other Memphis businesses needing reliable freight solutions across North America. Our company is deeply committed to this city—we’re proud to support the local community and contribute to its growth as an authentic, opportunity-rich hub.”