IMO it's a matter of culture. We're talking business relationships here.
Stern is tightly controlled and corporate in attitude. Not my style, but it is definitely working for them and Chris obviously doesn't fit that mold.
Chris is a bit rock 'n roll. He does his own thing. Guys like that can work well in a company (and excel) but the culture has to be relaxed and there has to be good chemistry and understanding both ways.
He sounds like an interesting dude and I hope he does well wherever he ends up (in pinball)...sounds like he already has a day job.