When you know who you are and you know what you want, your path is clear and success is assured. Such is the life and career of Mark Milliere. As a child, he was extremely sports-oriented. As a teen, he followed sports teams diligently. As a young man, his focus and intent were to obtain a career in sports media. He was informed that most sports media professionals attended Ryerson University. There was no doubt in Mark’s mind that he would enroll in the radio and television arts program at Ryerson University. As the universe aligns the stars in the sky, so too was Mark Milliere predestined to take his place with the newly established TSN. The Sports Network (TSN) was a 24/7 all-sports network. His entry-level position with the company began long before he graduated from university. But, he had found his place. And so began the life-long career of Mark Milliere.
Over the next thirty-two years, Mark would raise his position with the company holding nine advancements from Editorial Assistant, SportsDesk to ultimately becoming Senior Vice President and General Manager.
Mark Milliere had many accomplishments throughout his career with TSN. But, when he speaks of the highlights in his career the touching moment is bitter-sweet.
The highlight of his career was when he was able to assist the healing of a community in mourning and touch the hearts of the entire country. It was after the tragedy in Saskatchewan when the children of the Bronco team were tragically killed when their team bus was hit by a tractor-trailer. He was in close contact with the team president at the time that they had decided to come back and play their first game. Under the direction of Mr. Milliere, TSN was going to broadcast the Bronco’s first game back. He assigned their “A” level crew. He wanted to create a healing moment for that community and for the country. The crew did create that moment as they broadcasted the first home game back. They facilitated a ceremony after the game to honor the kids they had lost. It was a very fulfilling accomplishment for those who were able to impact so many people in that way.
As all good things must come to an end to make way for a new beginning, enter M2 Consulting, the new horizon for Milliere. The company has been launched with a wealth of experience and a lifetime of establishing extraordinary relationships. Mark is results-driven and provides innovative ideas, brand development, strategic planning, and content creation for his clients. M2 Consulting provides services to private companies, non-profit organizations, and individuals.
Mark challenged himself to a fresh new start. He believes that “you have to put the work in to achieve your goal. If you are hungry and committed, it will not feel like work. You will love the process. It is not just the big aha moments, it is the love of the process that sustains the excitement.” This is the enthusiasm that he shares with his clients.
How did you get started in M2 Consulting?
I had Thirty-two-years of business experience. I had extraordinary relationships that I developed over the years. I leveraged my years of experience with the relationships I’d built. I structured a consulting practice based on my strengths.
How does M2 Consulting make money?
M2 Consulting makes money in a couple of different ways. I am hired by companies to provide consulting services to clients to grow their business. The second way is to provide new business development services to companies that pay a finders fee for building relationships.
When you were starting, was there ever a time you doubted it would work? If so, how did you handle that?
I never doubted that it would work. This is something that I wanted to do. I jumped in with both feet. I am very encouraged by the prospects.
How did you get your first customer?
My first customer was found through Linkedin. I read a post from an owner discussing his business. I reached out to the owner with an idea to help them. I wasn’t necessarily looking for it to lead to anything. I just gave them an idea. The owner of the company contacted me to ask if we could get together over a cup of coffee to talk. By the end of our conversation, he asked me to come to work with him. That was how I found my first client.
What do you think it is that makes you successful?
I think what makes me successful is my commitment to my clients. Also, curiosity, good energy and bringing good ideas to the project at hand.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
The most satisfying times in my business is being able to open up doors for my clients. Seeing my clients’ business grow is extremely satisfying. Creating value for my clients is the ultimate rush.
What does the future hold for M2 Consulting? What are you most excited about?
I plan to continue to keep growing our client base. As I achieve that growth, I plan to expand the business. The thing that excites me the most is the unknown. We are in sports tech right now, but we are unlimited in expansion. Who knows what avenues will present itself, or where we will take it. It is very exciting to anticipate.
What business books have inspired you?
Stephen Covey, Seven Habits of Highly Effective People
A must-read for young people is Mark McCormack, What They Don’t Teach You at Harvard Business School.
Jack Welch, Straight from the Gut
Daniel Goleman, Emotional Intelligence
Simon Sinek, Start with Why
Brené Brown, Dare to Lead
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Embrace fear. Tackle it. The biggest breakthroughs will happen when you do. Facing your fear will lead to growth. You may fail in the moment, but you will learn from it. Apply that learning. Getting comfortable with the uncomfortable is challenging and difficult, but worth it.
Are you willing to be a mentor? If so, how should someone contact you?
Absolutely! Mentoring is one of my favorite things to do. I can be reached, just connect with me on Linkedin.