1st term: July 1, 2022 – May 3, 2025
Mike Bacchus is a University of Alberta and Athabasca University graduate. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree, an Advanced Graduate Diploma in Management, a Master of Business Administration, and is a Certified Executive Coach. Mike is the President of Arla Group and has over 25 years of experience within the executive search, leadership development, human resources and business advisory space.
Mike believes that surrounding oneself with exceptional people leads to personal and professional growth. His career has focused on attracting leading talent and harnessing that energy to produce outstanding results. His accomplishments include being recognized with awards such as one of Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies in 2007 and again in 2008. Mike was also recognized by Business in Edmonton Magazine as a 2014 Leader of Tomorrow. His former company, Optimum Talent, was recognized by the Canadian HR Reporter Readers’ Choice Awards as one of Canada’s Best Talent Management Consulting Companies in 2017, 2018, 2020, and 2021.
Mike is a true believer in giving back. His current and past community involvement on various boards include: the Edmonton Elks Football Club, Orange Theory Fitness, University of Alberta Hospital Foundation, NorQuest College Community Foundation, The Young President’s Organization (YPO), Entrepreneurs Organization (EO), and Junior Achievement Northern Alberta.