Mike McKim
Founder and CEO at Cuvee Coffee, Austin, TX
Professional Overview
Mike McKim is an accomplished coffee industry veteran and the Founder and CEO of Cuvee Coffee, a renowned specialty coffee roaster and retailer based in Austin, Texas. With over two decades of experience in the field, he has established himself as an influential leader and innovator, driving the growth and evolution of the specialty coffee market.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Founder and CEO of Cuvee Coffee since 1998, Mike has been instrumental in shaping the company's strategic vision and operational excellence. Under his leadership, Cuvee Coffee has become a respected name in the industry, known for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and exceptional customer experience. Mike oversees all aspects of the business, from sourcing and roasting to retail operations and brand development, ensuring Cuvee Coffee remains at the forefront of the specialty coffee movement.
Career Progression
Prior to founding Cuvee Coffee, Mike held various sales and management roles in the coffee industry, including Regional Sales Manager positions at Franke Coffee Systems North America and Espresso Specialists, Inc. He also served as a Regional Manager at Mohawk CDT. Earlier in his career, Mike was a Petty Officer 3rd Class in the U.S. Navy, where he gained valuable leadership and problem-solving skills.
Academic Background
Mike completed coursework in Engineering at the United States Merchant Marine Academy, where he developed a strong foundation in technical and analytical disciplines.
Areas of Expertise
Mike's expertise spans the entire coffee value chain, from green bean sourcing and roasting to retail operations and customer engagement. He is a recognized authority on specialty coffee, with deep knowledge of industry trends, market dynamics, and emerging technologies. His leadership skills, coupled with his passion for coffee, have been instrumental in driving Cuvee Coffee's growth and innovation.
Professional Impact
Under Mike's guidance, Cuvee Coffee has become a renowned specialty coffee brand, known for its commitment to quality, sustainability, and exceptional customer experience. The company has won numerous industry awards and accolades, including recognition as one of the "Top 25 Coffee Roasters in America" by Food & Wine magazine. Mike's contributions have helped shape the specialty coffee landscape, inspiring others in the industry to embrace sustainability, transparency, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Conclusion
With his extensive industry experience, visionary leadership, and unwavering dedication to the craft of specialty coffee, Mike McKim continues to drive Cuvee Coffee's success and contribute to the evolution of the specialty coffee industry. His passion, innovation, and commitment to quality have earned him a respected reputation among his peers and positioned Cuvee Coffee as a trailblazer in the dynamic and rapidly evolving coffee market.