Her Story
About Michelle
Michelle MacKeith is the Founder of Best You Can Be (BYCB) Coaching & Consulting, bringing more than three decades of experience in leadership, sales, operations, relationship development, team building, and organizational growth. Since beginning her career in 1990, she has developed a distinguished career within the point-of-sale and hospitality technology industries, progressing through nearly every role at her first company during a 20-year tenure. Under the mentorship of Jack O’Donnell, who gave her an early opportunity to grow and develop, Michelle gained comprehensive experience across service, support, sales, management, and operations before advancing into senior leadership. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Penn State University.
Through BYCB Coaching & Consulting, Michelle now draws on her extensive industry and leadership experience to help individuals, leaders, teams, and organizations recognize their strengths and turn potential into performance. Her work encompasses leadership and professional coaching, strategic consulting, team and culture development, workshops and speaking, emerging leader development, and relationship-based sales development. Michelle is especially passionate about empowering women as they enter new career paths and supporting emerging leaders as they build confidence, strengthen their capabilities, and pursue new opportunities. Her coaching philosophy combines thoughtful listening with candid, practical guidance, enabling clients to identify challenges, uncover opportunities, and take intentional action.
Michelle's approach to leadership is grounded in authenticity, empathy, faith, positivity, and a genuine commitment to people. She attributes her success to the mentors who invested in her, particularly Jack O’Donnell, as well as her strong work ethic, strategic mindset, and determination to continually learn and grow. She believes lasting success extends beyond professional achievements; it is about building meaningful relationships, developing others, creating positive impact, and helping people become the best version of themselves. An active member of the Retail Solutions Providers Association (RSPA), where she previously led the Women to Women group, Michelle remains committed to mentorship, professional development, and advancing leadership within her industry.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Michelle
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the guidance and mentorship of Jack O’Donnell, who gave me my first opportunity and allowed me to grow within the organization for 20 years, taking on nearly every role and gaining invaluable experience along the way. I am also grateful for my faith, positive mindset, and commitment to hard work. I approach every opportunity with intention, strategy, and a strong desire to continually learn, grow, and deliver meaningful results.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to work hard, but work smart. I believe in being intentional and strategic, staying focused on the top three priorities that will move me closer to my goals, and avoiding distractions that do not contribute to meaningful progress. Most importantly, I have learned to never give up, remain positive through challenges, and surround myself with a strong support system that encourages growth, resilience, and success.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to seek out an experienced woman who is a few steps ahead of you and willing to serve as a mentor. You do not have to navigate your career alone. Build relationships with people who genuinely care about your growth, are willing to share their knowledge, and can provide honest guidance along the way. A strong mentor can help you recognize opportunities, overcome challenges, build confidence, and grow both personally and professionally.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is the level of competition and the perception that all providers offer essentially the same services. I see this challenge as an opportunity to clearly identify what sets me apart and communicate the unique value I bring to my clients and the industry. By understanding my strengths, staying true to my expertise, and consistently demonstrating what I can offer that others cannot, I can differentiate myself and continue to build meaningful, lasting success.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are empathy, authenticity, faith, and maintaining a positive mindset. I genuinely care about the individuals, customers, and teams I work with, and I strive to make decisions based on a desire to help and make a meaningful difference, rather than simply for financial gain or recognition. I also believe in surrounding myself with positive, supportive people who encourage growth, integrity, and purpose, while allowing me to bring genuine care and authenticity to everything I do.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.