About Vanguard Cleaning Systems of Minnesota & Wisconsin

Mike Hamerlind – Regional Director (2009)

A lifelong Minnesotan, Mike currently leads operations for our Milwaukee office as Regional Director. He’s known for blending deep industry expertise with an approachable, teaching-driven mindset — always ready to coach clients or team members through facilities challenges big or small.

Outside of work, Mike runs a successful photography business and is on a personal mission to photograph every bridge that crosses the Mississippi River — from Lake Itasca down to New Orleans (visit GreatRiverXings.com to follow the journey).

Experience

• Nationally recognized sales executive, earning top honors in 11 of the past 15 years.

• Expert in consultative selling with a strong focus on client education.

• Passionate about empowering franchisees to grow with clarity, confidence, and long-term strategy.

James Nespbor – Sr. Account Executive (2025)

James joins the Vanguard sales team with over 6 years of franchise-based commercial cleaning experience as a top performing account executive here in the Twin Cities. His skills in consultative relationship building with facility managers and C-suite decision makers are key in allowing James to build value-rich partnerships with prospects across multiple industries.

Outside of work, James enjoys traveling, playing golf, attending sports events, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Experience

• 20+ years in client-facing roles building trust, resolving issues, and delivering tailored solutions

• Skilled at galvanizing diverse teams to align with company mission and service excellence

• Strategic thinker with a process-driven mindset to optimize what works and rebuild what doesn’t

 Christine Lunz – Account Executive (2023)

Christine brings joy and enthusiasm to the Wisconsin sales team, backed by nearly two decades of experience in the hotel and hospitality industry. A proud Brookfield native, she’s deeply involved in the Greater Milwaukee business scene and is a model relationship-builder who always puts the client first.

Experience

• 20+ years in forward-facing client and consumer service roles

• Creative thinker who develops tailored solutions for unique client needs

• Deep attention to detail — every prospect concern is acknowledged and addressed in her service offerings

  Paul Kuhn – Brand Services Manager (2016)

Paul is passionate about quality service and local flavor — especially if it’s served at one of Minnesota’s many breweries. He’s a fan of Surly Brewing’s atmosphere, variety, and community vibe, and that same appreciation for experience shines through in how he supports our franchise teams and clients.

Experience

• 14+ years in sales and 20+ years in customer service

• Identifies special service opportunities to enhance facility value

• Proactive in resolving issues and engaging franchisees for quick solutions

• Always focused on Vanguard’s mission: Every customer, every day, every time

  Edgar Mendoza – Brand Services Manager (2024)

Edgar has had his hands in every part of the commercial cleaning industry — literally. From executing floor care programs to managing large janitorial crews at General Mitchell Airport (MKE), Edgar brings deep operational knowledge to every client interaction.

When he’s not rolling up his sleeves in the field, Edgar enjoys spending time with his family, checking out car shows, soaking in the Milwaukee summer, or taking a day trip down to Chicago.

Experience

• Hands-on knowledge of best practices in commercial cleaning and facility maintenance

• Resource for training and executing floor care and special services projects

• Skilled in people management and team deployment for long-term program success

• Bilingual communicator and field liaison for both client and franchisee needs

Charlie Tolar – Administrative Support Specialist (2023)

Charlie is the glue that holds Vanguard together. She supports nearly every department — from administering Salesforce CRM and managing insurance deadlines, to organizing backend systems and keeping both sales and operations running smoothly.

Outside of work, Charlie fully embraces Minnesota summers and all things outdoors. She’s often found exploring a new national park, enjoying a craft beer, or making her annual stop at the MN Renaissance Festival.

Experience

• Skilled in day-to-day office administration across multiple departments.

• Salesforce administration and reporting, including integration of Conga Sign.

• HubSpot CRM and marketing platform customization.

• Technical writer for internal processes and procedures.

  Katie Dalluhn – Accounting (2023)

Katie brings a bright energy to the office and manages the daily flow of financial operations for both Minnesota and Wisconsin. From collecting payments to supporting our franchise network, she’s the go-to person for keeping things running smoothly.

Outside of work, Katie’s world is full of energy — from her kids’ sports schedules to gardening and raising chickens (whose eggs are an office favorite). A lifelong Minnesotan, she believes in continuous learning and the power of positivity.

Experience

• 10+ years in customer service and member support

• 6 years as a licensed financial advisor

• 4 years of bookkeeping and small business accounting

• 3 years of QuickBooks experience

Alec Schimmel – Accounting (2025)

Alec leads the accounting department for both our Minnesota and Wisconsin offices, bringing clarity and efficiency to complex financial operations. Known for his integrity and servant-hearted leadership, Alec is passionate about building workflows that empower teams to thrive with confidence. Whether he’s refining internal systems or mentoring colleagues, he leads with humility, purpose, and a deep commitment to the mission.

Outside the office, Alec is active in his church and community. He’s a Minnesota sports loyalist and a fitness enthusiast who can often be found on the pickleball court or the golf course.

Experience

• 3 years of public accounting experience in auditing

• 1 year in financial control and compliance

• Former accounting manager in the roofing industry

• Expert in Excel and Microsoft Office tools

• Passionate about service — in business, community, and faith