Chris Rey
President, HOPE Initiatives
Chris V. Rey serves as President of HOPE Initiatives at Operation HOPE, where he leads strategic partnerships, global engagement, public-private collaborations, and mission-driven initiatives focused on advancing financial dignity, economic mobility, entrepreneurship, and inclusive prosperity. In this role, he works alongside governments, corporations, nonprofits, faith-based organizations, educational institutions, and community leaders to expand the global reach and impact of Operation HOPE’s vision of making free enterprise and financial literacy accessible to all.
A nationally recognized executive, attorney, veteran, educator, and civic leader, Rey brings more than two decades of leadership experience spanning the public, private, nonprofit, and higher education sectors. He is known for transforming organizations, building high-performing teams, and creating innovative solutions to complex challenges in economic development, workforce readiness, technology, education, and community advancement.
Prior to joining Operation HOPE, Rey served as the 20th President of Barber-Scotia College, where he led one of the most ambitious institutional revitalization efforts in the college’s modern history. He also served as the 36th International President of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., overseeing a global organization of thousands of members while strengthening its focus on social action, financial empowerment, leadership development, and community impact.
Rey previously served three terms as Mayor of Spring Lake, North Carolina where he championed economic growth, government modernization, and community revitalization efforts. During his tenure, he helped secure and lead the largest economic development investment in the city’s history, positioning Spring Lake for long-term growth and increased economic opportunity for residents and businesses alike.
Rey is a retired Major in the U.S. Army National Guard, where he served for more than 22 years as a communications, information technology, and cybersecurity leader. During his military career, he helped develop the first Cyber Brigade for the National Guard and led large-scale technology modernization initiatives supporting mission readiness and operational excellence. His military service earned numerous honors, including the Bronze Star Medal and Meritorious Service Medal.
Rey holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Juris Doctor degree from the College of William & Mary. He is a sought-after speaker on leadership, financial empowerment, innovation, civic engagement, organizational transformation, and economic development. His personal mission is centered on helping individuals, communities, and institutions build stronger futures through faith, purpose, service, and economic empowerment.