Mike Canning, J.D.

Executive Vice President, Client Relations
Regional Managing Director - Western US

Mike Canning leads the West Coast operation of Duke CE and also serves as a member of the Executive Committee. In these roles, Mike holds dual responsibility for managing Duke CE’s portfolio of work “west of the Rockies” and leading the organization’s efforts to design and deliver unique learning experiences customized to achieve specific business and learning outcomes. Mike teaches in many Duke CE programs across a range of subjects, which include translating and implementing strategy, creating change in large organizations, building organizational capability and leading in complex environments.

Mike and his colleagues also work directly with clients to define and develop the architecture of their leadership pipeline, and design and execute key programs that meet the specific needs of leaders at different levels of the firm. As part of this work, Mike also coordinates Duke CE's efforts to develop a unique body of knowledge and tools that address the key challenges of leaders in the middle of the organization. This effort has resulted in Mike co-authoring the eight-volume Leading from the Center book series published by Dearborn Press.

Prior to joining Duke CE five years ago, Mike lived and worked as an independent consultant in the San Francisco Bay area. He worked with a range of clients focusing on designing and implementing strategic change, building organizational capability, and leadership development.

Mike was the Learning Strategist for the Global Operations Group of The Coca-Cola Company prior to his work as an independent consultant. As a member of this global management team, he worked directly with leaders across the supply chain (procurement, manufacturing, logistics, engineering and packaging) to develop and implement business strategy and build organizational capability with a focus on increasing the company’s capacity for change and achievement of business results. He has traveled and worked extensively in a wide range of cultures across Europe, Latin America, North America, Africa, and Asia. At Coca-Cola he also served as Director of Global Employee and Industrial Relations where he was responsible for global labor policy, conflict resolution, and contract negotiations.

Mike holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Finance from William Paterson University in New Jersey, and a J.D. from the University of Bridgeport (Conn.) School of Law.