Team

Michael Leist

Chief Experience Officer, Partner

Mike’s greatest strengths are his creativity, drive and behind the scenes leadership. He has a passion for exploring media and technology trends, particularly those that can enhance the client experience and expand the company’s reach.

Early adopter. Curious and creative. Working to redefine the standards in client communication and service.

As the Chief Experience Officer, Mike is dedicated to building a vibrant brand community with a focus on integrating the company’s core values and purpose into every facet of our work. With over a decade of experience leading the firm’s marketing and business development, Mike brings a strategic vision and a passion for fostering meaningful connections that drive the company’s mission forward. In this role, Mike ensures that the commitment to impact resonates throughout the organization and beyond, creating lasting positive change for clients and the community.

Prior to joining Strategic, Mike was an associate and member of the Investment Committee at Monument Group, a leading placement agent for alternative investments, based in Boston, MA.

Education

BA, Economics, Tufts University

Community Service

Founder and Board President, Clinton Youth Softball, Inc.
Founder and Director, Summer Sandlot Series
Advisory Board, Downtown Classic Basketball Showcase
Board Member, Clinton Central School Sports Boosters
Assistant to the Director, Clinton Youth Basketball
Volunteer, Social Media Coordinator, New Hartford Basketball Program, Clinton Youth Softball and Downtown Classic Basketball Showcase

Beneath the Surface

Claim to Fame

Claims to have invented the “selfie” long before the advent of digital cameras.

Enjoys

Navigating parenthood, golfing with his father and brother, 80’s music videos, Home Depot, dancing at weddings and laughing with his wife and two kids.

Family

Mike lives with his wife Vale, two daughters and his guide dog dropout, Skip.

When I was a child my mother said to me, ‘If you become a soldier, you’ll be a general. If you become a monk, you’ll be the pope.’ Instead I became a painter and wound up as Picasso.
Picasso