Mike Carey
Executive Consultant
As a practical and creative human resources leader, Mike Carey excels at helping individuals realize their full potential, optimize their skills, and contribute fully and authentically in the workplace. His career spans corporate HR, executive search and HR consulting roles, with work experience at technology, media and professional services companies in both the private and public sectors.
Most recently, Mike served as SVP/CHRO for SPS Commerce, where he led talent acquisition, talent management, organization and leadership development, compensation and HR systems initiatives to support the company’s rapid growth and diverse global workforce. Previously, he led global HR for talent management firm PDI Ninth House (now Korn Ferry), including client-facing work in leadership development and executive coaching. His experience extends to executive search work with the Chandler Group, and extensive talent acquisition during his corporate HR tenure.
Mike’s own career traces an unconventional trajectory. He holds an M.B.A. from the Carlson School of Management and a B.A. in accounting from the University of St. Thomas, and began his career in accounting and marketing. This hands-on understanding of business, finance and strategy gives him a well-rounded perspective and a strong partnership with business leaders. It also contributes to his views on career development, where he realizes there are many paths a career can take—and a straight line isn’t always the best line.
Outside of Navigate Forward, Mike maintains an executive search practice and volunteers regularly. Currently, he’s learning Spanish, taking painting classes and contemplating a second marathon. He and his wife travel frequently; recent excursions found them rafting the Grand Canyon, hiking Easter Island and eating their way through Vietnam.