Cybersecurity in Manufacturing and Distribution

As Vice President of Business Development at NIC Inc., Helen Leonidas brings more than 18 years of experience in business operations, strategic planning, risk management, and technology services. Throughout her career, she has been passionate about helping organizations grow by aligning business objectives with innovative technology solutions.  
At NIC, Helen works closely with clients, partners, and internal teams to drive growth, strengthen relationships, and deliver meaningful business outcomes. With expertise spanning managed IT services, cloud technologies, Microsoft 365, and business operations, she is known for translating complex technical concepts into practical strategies that help organizations operate more efficiently and confidently. 
A Microsoft Certified Professional and Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor, Helen combines technical knowledge with a strong business background to help clients navigate change, improve processes, and leverage technology as a competitive advantage. Her experience in business financing and operations provides a unique perspective that enables her to connect technology initiatives to measurable business value. 
Helen earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management from California State University, Northridge. She is committed to continuous learning and professional development and enjoys helping both clients and colleagues succeed in an ever-evolving technology landscape. 
When she’s not at NIC, Helen can often be found logging miles on the road and training for her next marathon. Her dedication to long-distance running reflects the same discipline, perseverance, and goal-oriented mindset that she brings to her professional life.

Michael Leonidas is the President of NIC Inc. and has spent more than 20 years helping businesses use technology to solve problems, improve operations, and support growth. With a strong background in cybersecurity, IT infrastructure, and technology strategy, Michael enjoys helping organizations turn technology into a business advantage rather than just another expense.

Since founding NIC Inc. in 2002, he has worked with companies of all sizes to modernize their technology, improve efficiency, strengthen security, and build systems that can grow alongside their businesses. He’s especially passionate about helping business leaders make smart technology decisions that deliver real-world results—not just technical upgrades for the sake of technology. Prior to becoming the owner and CEO of NIC, Michael worked as a Chief Technology Officer and Chief Information Office at several global companies, building knowledge and experience to lead his own company.

Michael has extensive experience working with clients in the lumber and building materials industry, helping them streamline operations, improve reliability, enhance cybersecurity, and leverage technology to support continued growth in an evolving marketplace.

Known for his practical, hands-on approach, Michael has led countless infrastructure upgrades and process improvement initiatives throughout his career. He also brings many years of experience developing and launching new products and technology solutions, giving him a unique perspective on both the technical and business sides of innovation.

A firm believer that learning never stops, Michael is committed to staying current with emerging technologies, cybersecurity trends, and industry best practices. Over the years, he has earned numerous professional certifications and regularly invests in continuing education through seminars, training programs, and industry events. This commitment allows him to bring fresh ideas, current knowledge, and proven strategies to the clients he serves.

Today, Michael leads the strategic direction of NIC Inc., working closely with clients to align technology with business goals. Whether he’s helping a company strengthen its cybersecurity posture, planning a complex technology rollout, or advising leadership teams on long-term IT strategy, his focus remains the same: delivering practical solutions that help businesses operate more efficiently, reduce risk, and grow with confidence.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Michael is a dedicated family man who enjoys spending time with his wife and children. When he's not helping clients navigate technology challenges, you'll often find him on the golf course, planning his next travel adventure, or coaching his children's basketball teams. He values the lessons that sports, travel, and family life teach about teamwork, leadership, discipline, and perseverance—qualities that also influence his approach to business and client relationships.