Steven Harden

Steve Harden is a high-energy business, brand, and leadership architect with over 30 years of executive experience leading iconic global brands and scrappy startups to record-breaking success. His career playbook includes powerhouse names like GSK, Adidas, VF Corporation, and Oakley—plus multiple startups he’s scaled, capitalized, and sold to private equity. From rebuilding organizations to launching brands that dominate their categories, Steve has led teams from 25 to 585 across the globe, always with his signature ONETEAM Concept and EVERYONESELLS mindset driving results.

Today, as executive in residence at Azusa Pacific University’s School of Business and Management, Steve is flipping the script—pouring his decades of boardroom wins, brand turnarounds, and growth strategies into the next generation of leaders and brand builders. Whether he’s in the classroom, at the board table, or on stage, Steve’s mission is clear: equip others to lead on purpose, with purpose.

A cancer survivor, faith-driven mentor, and author of the best-selling Surpass Your Limits, Steve combines sharp business acumen with a passion for people. He’s proof that leadership is less about titles and more about inspiring teams to believe, belong, and bring their best—every single day. Always forward. Always surpassing limits.

Education

• BA, Business Administration and Marketing

Credentials/Certifications

• Maxwell Certified Leadership

Academic Area

• School of Business and Management

Expertise

• Corporate Leadership
• Marketing and Sales
• ONETEAM Concept and EVERYONESELLS Mindset
• Faith Integration

Courses Taught

• PUBR 250 – Introduction to Public Relations
• PUBR 350 – Reputation Management
• PUBR 400 – Public Relations Management and Ethics
• MKTG 260 – Principles of Marketing
• MGMT 350 – Business Management Internship