Chris Smith

Founder & Chief Executive Officer, PRAXIS Technology Escrow

Chris Smith is the Founder and CEO of PRAXIS Technology Escrow and a recognized leader in software and SaaS escrow with more than 20 years of industry experience. He pioneered the first automated escrow solution in 2016, transforming how escrow supports Agile development, SaaS platforms, and emerging technologies.

Professional Background

Before founding PRAXIS, Chris co-founded Escrow Associates, which grew into the
world’s third-largest technology escrow provider before its acquisition by NCC Group.
His work has consistently focused on bridging the gap between legal escrow frameworks
and modern software delivery models.

Industry Contributions & Innovation

Chris is widely credited with modernizing escrow through automation. His work
introduced continuous, repository-based escrow deposits and verification processes
that significantly reduced risk for both licensors and licensees.

Areas of Expertise

  • Software & SaaS Escrow
  • Automated Escrow & Verification
  • Technology Continuity & Risk Mitigation
  • Intellectual Property Protection
  • Enterprise & Regulated Industry Escrow

Leadership at PRAXIS

As CEO, Chris leads PRAXIS Technology Escrow’s strategic direction, focusing on
automation, security, compliance, and scalable escrow solutions that meet the needs
of modern software-driven businesses worldwide.