Kris Potrafka

Kris Potrafka has a diverse and extensive work experience spanning various industries and roles. Currently, at Ambiq, Kris serves as the VP of Human Resources, overseeing all aspects of the HR function globally. Prior to this, Kris founded and served as the CEO of Music Firsthand, a live music booking app. At NXP Semiconductors, Kris held the position of Human Resources Business Partner, providing support to the GM and SVP of Engineering. Additionally, Kris worked as an Organization Development Consultant and Executive Coach at KAP Coaching, facilitating business transformation and providing executive coaching. Kris also held leadership roles at Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), iHeartMedia, Cisco Systems, Fox Interactive Media, Sun Microsystems, and Activision, Inc., where Kris contributed to various aspects of HR, operations, communications, and organizational development.

Kris Potrafka's education history begins with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and Psychology from Eastern Illinois University, which was obtained between 1992 and 1996. This was followed by a Master of Arts in Psychology from Ball State University, earned from 1996 to 1999.

Subsequently, Kris pursued a Masters in Human Resources and Industrial Relations from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, completing the program from 1999 to 2001.

Kris later enrolled in Fielding Graduate University, where they obtained a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Organizational Development and Change from 2011 to 2013. This was furthered by the completion of a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Organizational Development and Change from the same institution, achieved between 2011 and 2016.

In terms of additional certifications, Kris obtained an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) certification from the International Coaching Federation in July 2012. Moreover, they have certification in the Wharton Executive Compensation Certificate Program from the Wharton Executive Education, which was achieved in February 2023. Kris also acquired certifications in Change Management from Prosci and in MBTI from The Myers-Briggs Company. Lastly, Kris is a certified Situational Leadership Trainer from The Center for Leadership Studies, although the specifics of when these certifications were obtained are not provided.