Harvey Meier: Harvey A. Meir Co.

• Author: Stomierowski, Peg
• Position: VIEW FROM THE TOP - Interview

Harvey Meier, a certified management consultant, is president of Harvey A. Meier Co. (HAM) and executive director of the Institute for ANC Director Education[R] (IADE) in Ashland, Ore.

Since 1971, he has been advising executives and board members of firms, primarily in the Pacific Northwest. In recent years, he has done more work with Alaska Native corporations (ANCs), although he's consulted in seafood processing in Southeast Alaska since 1985. IADE is conducting its third annual ANC Director Training Course March 15-17 at The Hotel Captain Cook.

Meier grew up on a Washington dairy farm and played collegiate football. Formerly a professor at Oregon State University, he has a Ph.D. in economics and finance from The Ohio State University.

ABM: How's the view at the top?

Meier: While the economy is sputtering and sluggish in sectors, there are pockets of opportunity for businesspeople able to make prudent course adjustments. The key is to root out these opportunities. Those who hesitate to adapt are more likely to flounder.

ABM: How has historic recession impacted consulting and your business here?

Meier: Many independent consultants I know are experiencing revenue declines--some are working for others now or pursuing alternative careers --and consulting firms as well are experiencing declines. Because of the diversity and scope of our services, we've been fortunate.

ABM: What growing pains tend to afflict ANCs and tribal businesses?

Meier: Lack of access to financial and human capital poses constraints to facilitating and sustaining growth models. Bank credit has grown tight, loan covenant requirements are more stringent, private equity capital placements to access external capital have been unavailable heretofore, and the ability to attract top-quality managers (and their families) to Alaska is an ongoing challenge.

Many ANC boards are taking steps to increase the knowledge, expertise and sophistication of directors in exercising their governance and fiduciary responsibilities. This helps establish a sound legacy for the next generation of Native leadership; already fast emerging, their viewpoints will have a profound influence on their organizations. In addition, the pending potential changes in SBA 8(a) federal contracting laws, if enacted, will require adjustments in the business models of those ANCs seeking to win SBA Section 8(a) federal contracts.

ABM: What smoothes or stymies merger and acquisition (M&A) movements, and at what...