In Midwest manufacturing, Todd Miller is a vanguard innovator and force for change. Having worked in Japan for a renowned industrial leader, he has introduced cutting-edge production techniques from Asia and Europe to an industry in need of a revolution.

In 1996, Todd Miller and his wife Getchen decided to return to Indiana, and in 2000 Todd assumed the presidency of the company his grandfather, Walter L. Myers, had founded in a Logansport garage in 1946 and his father, Craig Miller, had shepherded from 1985 until 2000. Applying his experience and knowledge from overseas, Todd saw immediate and significant results in employee morale, product quality, and the bottom line. Under Todd’s stewardship, Myers Spring has doubled its production facility to 53,000 ft², tripled revenue, and quadrupled EBITDA.

Describing his leadership style, Todd says, “It’s about respecting and valuing the individual. Everyone at Myers Spring is a manager. Everyone here manages people, processes, or both. And each of these managers is accountable and shares in the rewards of success.”

To his customers, Todd has a special message: “One thing you can expect from us is a frank, open relationship. It’s part of the whole kaizen ideal. If you want a spring or part that’s too cheap, we’ll tell you. If you want one that’s too expensive or at too strict a spec, we’ll tell you. If we think your processes or practices are not up to snuff, we’ll definitely tell you. And we expect the same frankness and openness from everyone we work with—customers, associates, vendors, and owners—the whole stakeholder gamut.

“With our special brand of frankness and openness,” continues Todd, “comes a net energy to the customer. We offer advice and insights you can’t get anywhere else. Not to mention truly great products. We feel it’s the win-win philosophy at its best.”

In his spare time, Todd enjoys the outdoors, cooking, and reading the works of the best minds in business. He lives with his wife and two children in Logansport, Indiana.

Todd’s Required Reading

The Goal Eliyau M. Goldratt and Jeff Cox Good to Great Jim Collins

Leadership and Self-Deception The Arbinger Institute Servant Leadership Robert K. Greenleaf