Consultant Profile Mike May

Consultant Profile: Mike May

Area Center: Greenville

Title: Greenville Area Business Consultant

Start Date: August 17, 2026

 QUESTION: What was your career track prior to joining the SC SBDC?

ANSWER: I bring decades of domestic and international business experience, with a career spanning finance, sales and marketing, manufacturing operations, and executive leadership. During 21 years with Barry-Wehmiller, I progressed from financial management to Vice President of Sales and Marketing and ultimately Chief Operating Officer and President, leading a global business with multiple international and domestic manufacturing facilities. I later served as CEO of Louis P. Batson Company and Surekap LLC, helping those textile service and packaging machinery manufacturing businesses expand into new markets, improve profitability, strengthen their teams, and build better business systems. More recently, my work as an M&A Senior Advisor with Mt. Vista Capital has focused on helping owners navigate the sales of their businesses. I also enjoy volunteer work with Upstate Warrior Solutions, coaching veterans and first responders on new ventures and existing businesses.  I earned a BS in Biology from The Citadel and served as a U.S. Army officer in the U.S. and abroad.  I received my MBA from Clemson University.

 QUESTION: What motivated you to become an SC SBDC consultant?

ANSWER:  I enjoy helping individuals work through challenges and see a clearer path toward their goals. Throughout my career, some of my most rewarding experiences have involved developing people and working together to achieve positive team member and business results. Joining the SC SBDC gives me an opportunity to apply my experience in service to entrepreneurs and the business community here in Greenville, SC and the Clemson Region.

QUESTION: What is the best piece of advice you would offer an aspiring business owner?

ANSWER: Personally- strive to keep a sustainable balance of work, spiritual growth, physical care and family/friends.  Also, measure your success by the way you touch the lives of people.  In Business- Cash is king. Actively listen and enjoy learning.  Be resilient and help yourself by focusing on prioritized and less initiatives at once to get more done. 

QUESTION: What area of interest/expertise do you offer your clients?

ANSWER: My strengths include strategic planning, sales and market development, financial management, lean operational improvement, and leadership development. I help owners connect their goals with the everyday decisions and actions needed to achieve them. That might mean evaluating a new market, strengthening a sales approach, understanding profitability, improving a business process, or planning for growth. My acquisition and M&A experience also provides perspective for owners considering buying a business or preparing for an ownership transition. I begin by listening and understanding what success means to each client, then work with them to identify priorities and realistic next steps.

QUESTION: Why is the SC SBDC an important resource for business owners in South Carolina?

ANSWER: I have owned and managed small business in SC.  Business leaders carry many responsibilities and have limited time to step back, evaluate options, and plan. The SC SBDC gives leaders access to an experienced network of advisers and resources at no direct cost who can help them ask useful questions, assess opportunities, and make more informed decisions.

QUESTION: What is your favorite part about working for the SC SBDC?

ANSWER: I enjoy contributing to the SC SBDC team of caring, service-oriented and skilled individuals all working together to achieve our common goal of strengthening our local businesses, families and surrounding communities. 

QUESTION: What keeps you busy when you're not at work? What is your hobby and/or passion?

ANSWER: Playing with children and grandchildren; enjoying walking, golfing, and traveling with my wife, family, and friends; and volunteering at the Upstate Warrior Solutions Veteran and First Responder Organization. Also, supporting my Clemson Tigers!

QUESTION: Provide any additional information that will enhance your final Consultant Profile:

ANSWER: I’ve been blessed to consult with businesses and support communities in over 25 countries throughout the world.  I have learned to not take for granted both the freedoms and challenges our American Small business leaders and managers face.  It is an honor to support their successful journey.