#KSRCrew Spotlight with Mike Bard
Get to know the people behind the insights in our #KSRCrew Spotlight series. We sit down with employees throughout the firm to learn about their experiences, backgrounds, and what makes them tick.
In this edition of #KSRCrew Spotlight, we’re excited to feature Mike Bard, VP & Principal and Telecom, Entertainment & Recreation Team Lead. Mike earned his Master of Public Administration from Syracuse University and, prior to joining KS&R, spent more than eight years serving in the Army and the NY Army National Guard.
Find out more about Mike and his journey in the Q&A below.
What do you enjoy most about being part of the KS&R team?
It’s hard to choose just one thing, but I’d have to say the people. Some past and present teammates and clients have become lifelong friends, others have been great mentors who pushed me to grow—and through it all, I’ve always felt like they’ve had my back.
How did you end up at KS&R?
As part of my MPA program, I needed an internship and marketing research sounded fun. I spent a spring semester at KS&R a few days a week, then returned to finish my degree and serve full-time in the Army. After more time in the military—and after having a baby—my wife and I decided I needed a more predictable job closer to home so we could raise our family. KS&R was hiring, and the rest is history.
Who has inspired you in your life and why?
Many people have inspired me, but my grandparents had the greatest influence. I was lucky to grow up near both sets, spending countless days after school and weekends with them—and I even had over 40 years with all of them. They lived through hard times and instilled the importance of hard work and family. Their example is something I strive to live up to every day.
If you were an ice cream flavor, what would you be and why?
Vanilla. On its own it’s great, but it’s also a solid base—a ‘friend,’ if you will—for countless toppings and sundaes. It even pairs well with other flavors. Plus, it happens to be my favorite.
Aside from necessities, what is one thing you could not go a day without?
Coffee. Ideally iced with a little skim milk and caramel—and if it’s from Dunkin, even better.
Would you rather live on the beach or in the cabin in the woods?
At first, this felt like a tough one. I love the water but hate the sand, and I enjoy the solitude of a cabin in the woods. But my wife’s happy place is the beach, so the answer is obvious… the beach it is.
About KS&R
KS&R is a nationally recognized strategic consultancy and marketing research firm that provides clients with timely, fact-based insights and actionable solutions through industry-centered expertise. Specializing in Technology, Business Services, Telecom, Entertainment & Recreation, Healthcare, Retail & E-Commerce, and Transportation & Logistics verticals, KS&R empowers companies globally to make smarter business decisions. For more information, please visit www.ksrinc.com.
