Mike Miles is a seasoned leader, executive coach, and lifelong learner whose career spans high-growth startups, two decades at Microsoft, and global impact work. His journey is not just about professional success, but about unlearning toxic leadership norms, redefining ambition, and building workplaces where people—especially women—can lead without losing themselves. Humans of Fuzia is proud to feature Mike for his honest reflections on leadership, balance, and what true success really looks like, stories that deeply resonate with our global community working toward equity and empowerment.
Q: Mike, what inspired you to start your leadership journey? Was there a defining moment that changed your perspective?
Mike:
Early in my career, I was leading engineering at a startup that was preparing to go public in the US. There was immense pressure, and I wasn’t my best self as a leader, a husband, or even as an individual. I compromised my health, my relationships, and how I showed up for my team, believing that once we went public and financial success followed, everything would feel worth it.
But that never happened. After 9/11, the IPO market shut down and we ended up selling the company. That moment hit me hard. I realised all the compromises I had made weren’t worth it. That experience became a turning point—it made me promise myself that I would never again sacrifice my values, health, or relationships for a title or paycheck.
Q: How did this shift influence your leadership approach when you joined Microsoft?
Mike:
When I joined Microsoft, I was intentional about the kind of leader I wanted to be. One of the biggest challenges I encountered was the lack of women in engineering teams, especially in Silicon Valley. We struggled to hire and retain female engineers, and it forced us to reflect deeply on our culture.
As we worked to create more inclusive teams, something powerful happened. The conversations became richer, product decisions improved, and our thinking expanded. Diversity wasn’t just a moral imperative—it made our work better. That experience solidified my belief that inclusion isn’t optional; it’s essential for innovation.
Q: You led teams across multiple countries. How did global exposure shape your leadership mindset?
Mike:
Leading teams across 12 cities worldwide—from India and China to Egypt and Europe—was incredibly humbling. I realised that my assumptions about work ethic, balance, and leadership were very culturally biased. People bring their values, traditions, and lived experiences to work, and when leaders respect that, organisations thrive.
That global exposure helped me become a better listener and a more empathetic leader. It also reinforced the idea that there isn’t one “right” way to lead—context matters.
Q: What would you say were some major milestones in your career?
Mike:
One major milestone was realising that money wasn’t the primary driver of fulfillment anymore. Once I reached financial stability, I had the freedom to prioritise impact and purpose.
Another defining moment was during a sabbatical at Microsoft. My manager asked me a simple but powerful question: “What is the one thing that would keep you here?” That question led me to propose and launch a community development initiative focused on building healthier relationships between Microsoft and the communities hosting its data centers. That opportunity reshaped the final chapter of my corporate career and eventually led me toward consulting and social impact work.
Q: What are your thoughts on women in leadership today?
Mike:
I had the privilege of working closely with an incredibly capable female executive leader. Watching her navigate rooms where she was talked over or underestimated was eye-opening. It made me realise how much invisible labour women leaders still carry.
I strongly believe organisations need allies—especially men—to actively create space for women’s voices. At the same time, I also believe leaders must take ownership of their balance. Companies can support, but they can’t solve everything. Sustainable leadership comes from being intentional about health, relationships, and boundaries—regardless of gender.
Q: Finally, what does success mean to you today—professionally and personally?
Mike:
Success is alignment. It’s when what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what excites you come together. And doing all of that without sacrificing your health, relationships, or values.
Money isn’t the measure. Balance is. Purpose is. Impact is.
“True success is creating meaningful impact without compromising who you are or the life you want to live.” — Mike Miles
Connect with Mike Miles:
- LinkedIn: Mike Miles | LinkedIn
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