Chris J. Rufer founded The Morning Star Company in 1970, driving one truck hauling tomatoes and peaches. He now designs, constructs and operates the company's food-processing facilities. The company's principal business is agribusiness development and management in the processing tomato industry. The company founded, and is the managing partner/member of six enterprises. Mr. Rufer currently serves as president and owner.

Chris holds a BA in Economics (1972) and an MBA in Finance & Corporate Planning (1975), both from the University of California. He also holds an MS in Agricultural Sciences.

He resides in Sacramento, California with his wife. They have four children.