Verne Harnish is a distinguished entrepreneur and author renowned for his business scaling and growth strategies expertise. He holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and an MBA from Wichita State University, where he also founded the Association of Collegiate Entrepreneurs. As the founder of the Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO), Harnish has influenced over 13,000 members globally, and he continues to chair the "Birthing of Giants" CEO program at MIT, a testament to his impact on entrepreneurial education.

Harnish's journey in business began with a passion for empowering entrepreneurs, leading him to establish Scaling Up, a global executive education and coaching company. His experience spans over three decades, during which he has helped numerous companies grow significantly. His book, Scaling Up: How a Few Companies Make It...and Why the Rest Don't, is a bestseller. It has won eight major international awards, including the International Book Award for Best General Business Book. This work and Mastering the Rockefeller Habits, which has been translated into nine languages, underscores his authority in the field.

Beyond his professional achievements, Harnish is an active private investor in scaleups and serves on various boards, including as vice-chair of The Riordan Clinic and co-founder of Geodiversity. He resides in Miami, Florida, with his family and enjoys playing the piano, tennis, and performing magic as a member of the International Brotherhood of Magicians.