Chris Nicholas

Chris Nicholas has over 10 years of work experience in the finance and accounting industry. In 2021, they began their current role as VP of Finance for The Long Drink Company. From 2015 to 2021, they worked as Controller for Devils Backbone Brewing Company, where they managed an operating budget of over $20MM for manufacturing and over $5MM for hospitality, led the process with 15 different departments to develop annual budgets, explain monthly variances, and develop forecasts, and led a labor and raw material price analysis that lead to $1MM+ in savings annually. From 2013 to 2015, they worked as an Audit Associate and Summer Audit Intern for Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP, where they gained valuable hands-on audit experience with private clients in the manufacturing, healthcare, and nonprofit industries, led the planning and finalization of engagement scope and the development of audit strategy, and built rapport and established trust with a variety of client personnel while identifying, communicating, and resolving issues. From 2011 to 2013, they worked as a Teller for BB&T, where they managed a cash drawer of $10,000, assisted clients with their day to day needs, and referred products to clients that would benefit from the product. In 2011, they also worked as a Spring Intern for Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP. From 2005 to 2011, they worked as Manager for Tri-County Sales-N-Rentals, where they managed day to day activities, prepared equipment for rental, and helped clients decide on the right product for their needs. In 2011, they worked as a Tax Preparer for Bowman Accounting Services, where they prepared individual and corporate tax returns and worked with clients to meet their tax needs. In 2010, they also worked as a Tax Preparer for Bowman Accounting Services, where they prepared individual and corporate tax returns and assisted clients with their tax questions.

Chris Nicholas obtained an Advanced Diploma from Richlands High School in 2008. Chris then attended Southwest Virginia Community College from 2008 to 2011, where they earned an Associate of Arts and Sciences (AAS) in Business Administration. Chris continued their education at Virginia Tech, graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Accounting in 2013.