Mike Slade
Mike Slade began his career at Microsoft in 1983 and spent seven years there in a variety of product marketing roles. Products he introduced to the market at Microsoft include Excel (1985), Works (1987), and Microsoft Office (1989). He served as director of corporate marketing in Microsoft's systems software division before leaving in late 1990. He formerly served on the boards of two public companies; Metricom, Inc (1994-96); and The CKS Group (1996-98).
Slade joined Starwave, Paul Allen's trailblazing venture into the Internet and multimedia products arena, in 1993 after briefly serving as vice president of special projects for Asymetrix Corp., reporting to Mr. Allen. While at Starwave, Slade launched ESPN.com, ABCNews.com and the Go.com network, among other premier websites that have now become household names. Mike Slade retired as chairman and chief executive officer of Starwave Corporation upon the completion of its sale to the Walt Disney Corp. in late 1998.
Slade spent 1991-92 as the VP-Marketing for NeXT Computer, Inc., reporting to Steve Jobs. From 1998 until 2004 Slade consulted for Apple Computer CEO Steve Jobs, where he sat on the executive team.
He has also worked as a strategic consultant for the NBA, Starbucks, Real Networks, Disney, and the NFL. Slade co-founded the venture capital company Second Avenue Partners in 2000 and currently sits on the boards of Azaleos and Newsvine. Also in 2000 he became a co-owner of the Professional Bowlers Association and is actively involved in that company today.
Slade earned a B.A. in Economics from Colorado College in 1979, and an MBA from the Stanford University Graduate School of Business in 1983. He is also a member of the Board of Trustees of Colorado College, and locally serves on the board of Broadway Bound Children's Theatre. He and his wife, Megan, have a 2 year-old son who joins his two sisters ages 12 and 14.