Meet Our Team

Built on Four Decades of Doing It Right.

Meet the leadership team that’s been driving our standards, our culture, and our commitment to clients for over four decades.

Our Leadership Team

Meet the Team Behind the Mission

For over four decades, Populist has been built and led by people who take this work seriously. Get to know the leadership driving our standards, our culture, and our commitment to every client we serve.

Mike, Populist Cleaning Co. President, smiling headshot

Mike Eller

President & Co-Owner

Second-generation owner with over 35 years in commercial cleaning. Mike leads Populist with a “people first” philosophy, combining strategic oversight with hands-on involvement across Michigan and Ohio operations.

Matt Eller, Populist Cleaning Co. Director of Finance & Administration

Matt Eller

Integrator & Director of Finance and Administration

Matt serves as Populist’s Integrator, keeping the day-to-day operations of the business running smoothly and holding the team accountable to its systems and goals. He also oversees budgeting, reporting, and administrative systems, drawing on the same frontline perspective he built starting out as a cleaner and floor tech. That team-first mindset carries through from his days as captain of an NCAA Division III National Championship team.

Steve Hamil, Populist Cleaning Co. Director of Operations

Steve Hamil

Director of Operations

Steve oversees Populist’s entire operations team with 15+ years of industry experience. His background includes managing large-scale facilities like the GM Renaissance Center, leading teams in 24/7 environments.

Payton Glander, Populist Cleaning Co. Director of Human Resources & IT

Payton Glander

Director of Human Resources & IT

Payton aligns Populist’s people, policies, and systems with organizational goals. With 10+ years in HR and accounting, she oversees compliance, benefits, performance management, and technology infrastructure.

Danny Eller, Populist Cleaning Co. Director of Business Development

Danny Eller

Director of Business Development

A third-generation Populist leader who grew up in the family business. Danny leads client acquisition and business development, building long-term partnerships and ensuring smooth onboarding for every new account.

Work With Us

Let's Build Something That Lasts.

Schedule a no-obligation discovery call with our team — we’ll assess your needs and design a program built around your building.

Populist Employees Working with New Floor Machine