Michael Hess

Over 20 years’ experience in product development, sales and marketing, entrepreneurship and executive management.

Family's well-known photo equipment manufacturing business, The Saunders Group, purchased a major branded camera bag company in 1990. Through 1994, focused on managing all facets of the company’s bag business, designing new products and lines, managing its in-house sewing factory and establishing its overseas sourcing and manufacturing base. Grew the division by more than 300% over that 4-year period.

After 1994, served as Vice President of the parent company and its 15 branded product lines. Family sold the 50 year-old business—which had grown from 5 to 100 employees—in 1998.

After aiding in the transition of the family business to new ownership, left at the end of 1999 to start RoadWired, the carrying case company which later became Skooba Design. Also started travel product retailer Journeyware (sold business to a major luggage company) and most recent launch, Hotdog Yoga Gear.

Public speaker, advisor/mentor to other entrepreneurs and small business owners. Author of twice-weekly small business column for CBS News, and "expert" advisor on focus.com business information site. Interviewed numerous times on television and radio, in publications and online media.

B.A. in Political Science, and graduate of the intensive Textile Executive Management program at the industry-leading Philadelphia College of Textiles. Traveled extensively, developing close, long-standing relationships with factories and customers in over twenty countries.

Specialties: over 20 years' experience in design, sourcing and manufacturing, both domestically and offshore, with particular focus and expertise in sewn goods.

Expertise in small business marketing, PR and other creative functions, as well as international business.

www.businesswithclass.com / www.michaeljhess.com