Michael Harriff

Meet Michael

About

Michael is an entrepreneurial executive delivering cost-effective operations solutions across diverse industries including non-profit, aerospace, scientific research, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, legal, creative, and finance. Michael has successfully established and expanded multiple startups across New York. He brings assertive, determined leadership to his work, while maintaining a thoughtful, empathetic approach.

Michael is actively involved in the global community through philanthropy, volunteering, and board leadership. When not helping companies succeed, he is frequently found outside pursuing his passion for the night sky through astronomy and astrophotography, birding, or climbing mountains in the Adirondacks.

National boundaries are not evident when we view the Earth from space. Fanatical ethnic or religious or national chauvinisms are a little difficult to maintain when we see our planet as a fragile blue crescent fading to become an inconspicuous point of light against the bastion and citadel of the stars. -Carl Sagan

Working with Michael

Testimonials

Caroline BassoBpeace | Chief Operating Officer

'sought-after leader'

Michael Harriff is an exceptional professional with a proven ability to drive operational excellence and deliver impactful solutions across diverse industries. His thoughtful approach, combined with his expertise in strategic planning and process improvement, enables him to navigate complex challenges with ease. His vision and ability to inspire make him a sought-after leader for any organization.

Kevin BaileyCome Out CNY | Founder & CEO

'fosters collaboration'

Michael is an empathetic leader with a remarkable ability to analyze complex situations and develop strategic solutions. His natural talent for building strong relationships fosters collaboration and drives success across teams and organizations. Michael’s combination of analytical insight, leadership skills, and dedication to excellence makes him an invaluable asset to any mission-driven organization.

Natalie StetsonErie Canal Museum | Executive Director

'above and beyond'

Michael has been on the Erie Canal Museum Board of Trustees since 2018, serving as President since 2022. During his time on the Board he has gone above and beyond to assist the Museum using his varied talents and passions. Michael is a strong leader who has rallied the whole board to step up for things like Board Volunteer Work Days and a revision of the institutional by-laws and ethics in preparation for a reaccreditation review. He has been a pleasure to work with and will leave big shoes to fill when his tenure as Board President ends.

Ram SalmanMultiphi | Founder & President
miR Scientific | CIO

'balance multiple priorities'

I had the privilege of working with Michael, whose exceptional ability to balance multiple priorities while maintaining technical excellence set him apart as a true professional. His outstanding communication skills and natural talent for fostering team harmony made him an invaluable leader, particularly during periods of strategic change when his ability to pivot and guide others was instrumental to our success. Beyond his phenomenal leadership qualities and deep technical expertise, what truly distinguishes Michael is his unique ability to bring out the best in those around him while consistently delivering outstanding results.

Shannon HanrahanWCNY | Chief Development Officer

'expertise with genuine passion'

Michael possesses a rare combination of creativity, technical expertise, and vision. In my experience working with him, I’ve seen how he tackles challenges with innovation and approaches projects thoughtfully and collaboratively to achieve real results. His ability to combine expertise with genuine passion makes him an asset wherever he is needed.

Patrick Griffin, MBA, SPLPMorrigan Strategic Advisors | Founder
Erie Canal Musem | Past Board President

'administrative and operational excellence'

Having had the pleasure of working with Michael on both board work & private projects, I am continually struck by his combination of technical and leadership capabilities. He connects deeply with peers while understanding systems at a granular level, providing the end-to-end expertise and guidance necessary for administrative and operational excellence.

Steve SpectorDinosaur BBQ | IT Director

'focused and patient'

I have known Michael to have both an exceptional technical skillset, as well as the ability to communicate that knowledge into value through his intangibles. As a former colleague, I have experienced and benefited from Michael’s focused and patient approach to navigating complex challenges.