Mike Harris

On this week’s episode, Laura speaks with Mike Harris of Patina Solutions about entrepreneurship, venture capital, and building your business. A proven and prolific entrepreneur, Mike has significant experience in starting and building professional and technical services firms. Patina Solutions is his sixth professional services start-up since 1995. Mike is best known as the founder and former CEO of Jefferson Wells, which grew to $132 million in sales with 23 offices and 1,600 employees in five years. Jefferson Wells was acquired by Manpower for $174 million in 2001. Inc. magazine ranked Jefferson Wells as number five of the 500 fastest-growing private companies in America in 2001. Since Jefferson Wells, Mike has founded firms including the Novo Group and Adams Harris. He is currently a Board member for Novo Group, Tax Air and Bentley World Packaging. Mike is a frequent speaker on topics ranging from entrepreneurial endeavors to transitioning from CFO to CEO. Earlier in his career, Mike was CFO for Alternative Resources Corporation and Wind Point Partners. A CPA, he has a bachelor’s degree in accounting from University of Wisconsin – Parkside. http://www.patinasolutions.com/