Heidi Schaler is a seasoned global leader with over 20 years of professional experience spanning strategic operations, program management, and international business. Currently serving as the Global Operations Program Lead at Olympus Corporation of the Americas, Heidi has built a reputation for delivering exceptional results in complex, cross-functional projects that drive growth, innovation, and operational excellence across both domestic and international markets. With an MBA from the University of Denver’s Daniels College of Business and a BSBA in International Business, Heidi leverages her academic foundation and hands-on expertise to deliver transformational change.

Heidi thrives in dynamic environments, having successfully navigated diverse industries such as technology, logistics, medical devices, and health tech. Her superpower lies in shepherding priority initiatives through challenging partner landscapes, aligning stakeholders across borders, and fostering collaboration to achieve ambitious goals. Her career has been centered on building meaningful partner relationships, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and driving expansion into new markets. Heidi’s ability to translate strategic visions into actionable plans has consistently resulted in sustainable growth for the organizations she’s supported.

At Olympus, Heidi oversees internal partner programs, manages onboarding and offboarding, and ensures seamless contract transitions. She spearheads cross-organizational initiatives, including the global rollout of the Market Quality Program and the implementation of advanced systems from Translation Management Solution to Quality Management. Her keen analytical skills and ability to foster cross-team collaboration have made her an invaluable asset to the company’s leadership team. She also curates program documentation and insights to ensure continuous improvement in future initiatives.

Prior to her role at Olympus, Heidi served as the Global Customer Operations Lead for JLI, Inc, where she built and implemented OKRs to drive operational improvements, led compliance initiatives, and oversaw product launches in international markets. Her ability to guide a 30-agent BPO team and manage quality assurance measures across the globe demonstrated her exceptional leadership and operational agility.

Heidi’s global experience is one of her most notable strengths. She has worked extensively with teams across APAC, EMEA, LATAM, and beyond. Her expertise in international project management and cross-cultural collaboration has allowed her to lead teams effectively, ensuring alignment on strategies and objectives in even the most complex global landscapes.

In addition to her professional achievements, Heidi has a deep passion for building communities and fostering personal connections. Outside of work, she enjoys training and competing as an amateur boxer, building community, mentoring entrepreneurs and volunteering with local educational programs. Her commitment to both personal growth and the growth of those around her shines in everything she does.

Heidi’s academic achievements are as impressive as her career milestones. She earned her MBA in International Business from the University of Denver’s Daniels College of Business and holds a BSBA in International Business with a minor in German from the same institution. She further honed her language skills through studies at the Goethe Institute and most recently graduated from the Founder Institute entrepreneurship program.

Heidi has also demonstrated her ability to lead in nonprofit environments, having served as the Executive Director for Friends of the American University of Afghanistan, where she spearheaded strategic partnerships and fundraising initiatives. This role reflects her dedication to making a meaningful impact both within and outside the corporate world.

Heidi’s personal mission statement encapsulates her approach to leadership: “I empower teams by fostering trust, encouraging excellence, and ensuring they feel valued and proud of their achievements as we strive for success together.” This philosophy has guided her career, enabling her to inspire teams, drive innovation, and create a lasting impact wherever she goes.

As a sought-after speaker on topics such as program management, leadership, and team culture, Heidi is a natural communicator who connects with diverse audiences. Whether presenting at industry events or mentoring teams, she brings authenticity, insight, and actionable strategies to the table.

Character:

Heidi demonstrates unwavering integrity, trustworthiness, and a deep commitment to empowering her teams. She fosters a culture of collaboration, excellence, and inclusivity, ensuring every individual feels valued and motivated to achieve their best.

Knowledge:

With extensive expertise in global program management, international business, and compliance, Heidi has mastered navigating complex operational landscapes. Her ability to innovate and implement effective solutions has made her a trusted leader in driving growth and excellence across industries.

Strategic:

Heidi excels in aligning cross-functional teams and fostering strategic partnerships to achieve organizational goals. Her forward-thinking approach and ability to adapt in dynamic environments make her a catalyst for sustainable growth and innovation.

Communication:

A natural communicator, Heidi bridges cultural and organizational gaps with clarity and purpose. Her ability to articulate strategies, build consensus, and inspire action has been instrumental in driving successful outcomes in global projects.