Mike Nathe is a consummate leader with a sterling 19-year tenure at Essilor, a prominent figure in the optical industry renowned for his strategic prowess and operational finesse. Throughout his distinguished career, Mike held several key executive positions, each marked by transformative leadership and significant contributions to Essilor’s growth trajectory.
Beginning his journey with Essilor in 2000, Mike swiftly ascended the ranks, demonstrating an innate aptitude for business development, strategic partnerships, and sales management. His tenure culminated in his appointment to the Essilor Executive Committee in 2007, a testament to his strategic vision and operational acumen. As a member of this esteemed committee, Mike played a pivotal role in shaping Essilor’s strategic direction, overseeing day-to-day operations, and driving key initiatives to propel the company forward.
One of Mike’s most notable achievements was his role in being one of the founding members of the Essilor Vision Foundation, a philanthropic endeavor dedicated to providing underprivileged individuals with access to vision care. This initiative underscored Mike’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and his belief in leveraging business success for the greater good.
In his capacity as Senior Vice President at Essilor, Mike spearheaded several pivotal divisions, leaving an indelible mark on the company’s success. Notably, his tenure as Senior Vice President of the Lab Group saw him orchestrate the creation of the Partner Lab Group Division, a strategic move that revolutionized Essilor’s approach to serving eye care practitioners. Under his leadership, this division experienced exponential growth, boasting a robust sales force, extensive employee base, and impressive annual revenue.
Mike’s strategic foresight and ability to navigate complex business landscapes were further exemplified during his tenure as Regional Vice President and Area General Manager. In these roles, he adeptly managed multiple optical laboratories, sales teams, and operational functions, consistently exceeding performance targets and driving bottom-line results.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the optical industry, Mike was honored with induction into the Vision Council Hall of Fame in September 2018. This prestigious accolade underscored his status as a trailblazer and visionary leader in the field.
Today, as the President of Nathe Consulting, LLC, Mike continues to leverage his extensive expertise to guide organizations towards strategic success. Through his consultancy firm, he offers invaluable insights into strategic direction, leadership alignment, and team empowerment, helping companies navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities in an ever-evolving market landscape.
Mike’s legacy as a leader in the optical industry is defined not only by his professional achievements but also by his unwavering commitment to excellence, integrity, and innovation. His enduring impact on Essilor and the optical industry at large serves as a testament to his remarkable leadership and visionary approach to business.
Character: Mike Nathe embodies integrity, resilience, and a strong ethical compass, guiding his actions and decisions with honesty and principled leadership.
Knowledge: With 40 years of experience in the optical industry, Mike possesses a deep understanding of business development, strategic partnerships, and sales management, honed through hands-on experience and continuous learning.
Strategic: Mike demonstrates exceptional strategic acumen, evidenced by his pivotal role as a founding member of the Essilor Vision Foundation and his successful leadership of key divisions, driving growth and innovation within Essilor.
Communication: A skilled communicator, Mike excels in articulating complex ideas with clarity and conviction, fostering collaboration, and building strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels.
