Michael Vargo served as president of VARGO® Companies beginning in 2001, overseeing the company’s ongoing growth and strategic direction until 2019 when he handed the role of president to long-time COO Bart Cera. Michael then served as CEO until 2023 when Cera was promoted to that position and Michael assumed the role of chairman of the board. As the second-generation leader of the family-owned business, Michael continued to build on the company’s legacy while driving innovation and diversification in the warehouse integration, automation, and fulfillment space.

Michael’s history with VARGO® began long before his title as president. While still in high school, he gained early hands-on experience working in the field and learning the logistics and installation side of the business. He joined full time in 1986 as a territory sales manager, where he focused on growing the company’s product lines and developing client relationships. His leadership and operational insight led to his appointment as President, where he guided the company through significant milestones — including the acquisition of ADS Specialists Inc. in 2006 — and consistent year-over-year growth. He was also instrumental in the successful implementation of an Employee Stock Ownership Plan in 2022 in which VARGO® became an employee-owned entity.

With a deep commitment to the company’s long-term vision, as chairman, Michael continues to shape VARGO® into a forward-thinking leader and innovator in material handling, automation, and fulfillment solutions. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Business from the University of South Carolina.