Mike Esser
About Mike Esser
Mike Esser is the Managing Director at Pearl Meyer, where he has worked since 2002. With over 25 years of experience in executive compensation consulting, he has advised various industries and is a recognized author and speaker on compensation topics.
Work at Pearl Meyer
Mike Esser has served as Managing Director at Pearl Meyer since 2002. In this role, he provides strategic guidance on executive and Board compensation. His extensive experience in the field allows him to advise clients on best practices and innovative compensation strategies. Under his leadership, the firm has enhanced its reputation in the compensation consulting industry.
Previous Experience at Hewitt Associates
Before joining Pearl Meyer, Mike Esser worked at Hewitt Associates from 1985 to 2001. During his 16-year tenure, he held various roles, including Executive Compensation Consultant, Unit Manager, and Business Development Manager. His diverse responsibilities contributed to his comprehensive understanding of compensation strategies across different sectors.
Education and Expertise
Mike Esser studied at Loyola University Chicago from 1981 to 1985, earning a degree that laid the foundation for his career in compensation consulting. He holds the Certified Executive Compensation Professional (CECP) designation from the WorldatWork Society of Certified Professionals, which underscores his expertise in executive compensation.
Consulting Experience and Industry Focus
With over 25 years of experience, Mike Esser has advised Boards and senior management on executive and Board compensation strategies across various industries. His consulting experience includes sectors such as gaming, retail/apparel, manufacturing, REITs, real estate, and private equity, demonstrating his versatility and depth of knowledge in the field.
Public Speaking and Publications
Mike Esser is a sought-after speaker at industry forums, including the National Association of Corporate Directors and the USC Corporate Governance Summit. He is also a frequently published author on compensation topics, contributing to the discourse on best practices and emerging trends in executive compensation.