Mike Harder

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

ABOUT MIKE HARDER

I’ve built my career on one simple belief: operations done right create freedom for growth. Over the years, I’ve led large-scale projects and transformations across industries — from multi-branch distribution networks to manufacturing plants to fast-growing service companies.Career highlights include- Implementing a region-wide software system to track $6M (COG) in finished goods inventory across 13 Western Canadian branches, boosting cycle count accuracy to 99%- Championing a multi-year, cross-functional project to reduce a $10.5M annual cost burden at Ply Gem by 75% by identifying inefficiencies in returns, credits, and service- Driving a cultural shift at a founder-led renovation company, creating strategies that increased revenue by double digits and tripled average contract values- Leading $500K+ capital projects to modernize a 110K sq. ft. warehouse, redesign workflows, and improve service delivery.My strengths sit squarely at the intersection of operations and project management. I translate strategy into executable plans, design workflows that eliminate waste, and lead cross-functional teams through change. I apply Lean and Six Sigma principles, balance data-driven insights with human-centered leadership, and keep a sharp eye on measurable outcomes — whether that’s EBITDA improvement, customer experience, or employee engagement.But operations is only part of my story. In 2023, during my fight with throat cancer, I experienced firsthand how much it matters to feel seen, supported, and equipped. Out of that came hey buddie organization — a nonprofit that makes it fun and easy for everyday people to support community nonprofits. In its first year of operations, we managed to raise nearly At my core, I’m someone who believes operational excellence and personal connection go hand in hand. I help businesses grow, teams thrive, and build communities.