Remembering Chris Harding: A Leader Who Brought Heart and Vision to Paciolan
- Brenda Ramsay
- Sep 29
- 2 min read
Paciolan celebrates the extraordinary life and lasting contributions of former executive Chris Harding, whose vision and leadership helped shape the company during pivotal years.
Chris joined Paciolan in 1989 when the company was less than 10 years old. She brought impressive executive experience from leading customer support at a McDonnell Douglas subsidiary, along with a strong educational background, making her the company's first direct senior staff hire. She immediately took charge of Account Management—a department encompassing what we now know as Customer Support, Professional Services, eCommerce Operations, and Client Partnership. Chris also brought to the forefront the tradition of strong women leadership at Paciolan, which we have been known for ever since.
One of Chris's most enduring legacies remains visible today: PACnet. While the company had sponsored a few annual users’ meetings, Chris named the client event “PACnet” in 1990 – a moniker that still defines the event today. The structure and content she orchestrated elevated the event to a higher standard and solidified it as the company’s premier gathering each year.
After 14 remarkable years, Chris retired in 2003 to return to teaching, her first profession, which allowed her to spend more time with her growing family.
Those who worked alongside Chris remember her as an exceptionally balanced leader who knew when to be firm yet consistently brought engagement, compassion, organization, and joy to the workplace. Her colleagues describe someone who made work both meaningful and fun—a rare combination that inspired everyone around her.
Chris's legacy lives on through her husband of 37 years, Doug, two daughters, two sons-in-law, and five grandchildren. Paciolan remains forever grateful to Chris, who helped instill a culture that continues to celebrate our staff, customers, and partners, just as she taught us to do.
