From '(Why) we can't do this' to 'How Can We?' -
a journey from being Miebach's client to becoming a consultant reframing the conversation
22.07.2025 | By Kevin Troyer
From Client to Consultant
Before I joined Miebach, I sat on the other side of the table. I was a client of Miebach - twice, actually. I worked at a consumer goods company where I led network modeling for our Center of Excellence, and we partnered with Miebach on two major projects. That’s how I got to know the team and their work. It made a lasting impression.
Long before that, my career had taken me through a few different corners of the supply chain world. I had roles in internal network design at a manufacturing company, transportation design at a 3PL, and worked in linehaul engineering at a large transportation firm. Each role taught me something different, and it was the project-based work at the 3PL that aligned most closely with what I do today - leading teams, managing timelines, solving problems.
When I started looking for a new chapter in my career, I knew I wanted three things: a strong culture, the chance to work across different industries and challenges, and room to grow. Miebach checked all those boxes. The decision to make the jump from industry into consulting felt right. And five years in, it still does.
A Shift in Mindset and Opportunities
What’s surprised me most about this chapter of my career isn’t just the learning, it’s the range of growth that’s possible. At previous roles, the path ahead wasn’t always clear. I didn’t know where I was going or how I’d get there. At Miebach, I’ve been exposed to so many different directions I could take, whether that be new industries, new service offerings, or internal initiatives - each one adds new challenges and the opportunity to continue learning and growing.
One of the biggest mindset shifts I’ve experienced is how we approach problem-solving with clients. Early on, I found myself defaulting to: “Here’s why we can’t do that.” But at Miebach, I’ve learned to reframe the conversation: “Here’s how we can make that happen.” That subtle shift changes everything while fostering creativity, building trust, and opens doors.
Bringing Industry Experience into Consulting
My past experience didn’t become obsolete when I joined Miebach, it became a strength. The hands-on operations knowledge I gained at Moen, the project management and transportation design skills from Penske, and the continuous improvement work on cross-functional teams at FedEx Ground, all of it helps me relate to our clients. I’ve been in their shoes. I understand their constraints. And I can help guide them toward practical, high-impact solutions. At the same time, consulting requires a broader lens. It’s one thing to be an expert at one company. It’s another thing to become an industry expert. That means continuously learning, adapting, and being willing to let go of the idea that there is only one way to do something.
Consulting at Miebach isn’t a one-track job. Beyond client work, I’ve had the chance to help shape who we are as a company. I’ve served on our internal leadership council, stepped into business development roles, contributed to process improvements, led training initiatives, and helped design client feedback loops. I’ve even presented at conferences - something I never thought I’d do!
For Anyone Considering a Leap
If you’re further along in your career and thinking about a change, here’s my advice: Be open. Growth isn’t just for the early-career folks. Consulting will stretch you - it’ll ask you to communicate more, lead differently, wear new hats. Yes, it can be challenging. The learning curve is real. But it’s also energizing and provides a platform to expand your network, deepen your expertise, and shape your future.
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