Leading with Purpose: How Nathan Fiander Embodies Growth & Leadership

At Leavitt Machinery, we believe that great people drive great success. Nathan Fiander’s journey is a testament to what happens when ambition, leadership, and a passion for growth come together. Starting in 2015 as a Territory Manager in the Okanagan, Nathan has charted a course defined by persistence, innovation, and mentorship. From renting the first Manitou Rotational Telehandler in the region to building and leading high-performing teams across multiple branches, Nathan’s story reflects not just personal success but the core values of Leavitt Machinery: continuous improvement, leadership, and teamwork.

Let’s dive into Nathan’s journey—a story about overcoming challenges, inspiring others, and shaping the future of material handling.

A Journey of Growth: From the Okanagan to Leading Regional Success

Nathan’s story begins with a bold step in 2015, interviewing for a role in Edmonton but setting his sights on Kelowna. Tasked with overseeing the Okanagan territory—spanning Kamloops, Vernon, Kelowna, and Penticton—Nathan faced the daunting challenge of building Leavitt’s presence in an expansive market.

“It was a large task that took years of hard work to see success,” Nathan recalls. But success did come. A key milestone was introducing the first Manitou MRTs—rotating telehandlers that changed the game for builders in the region. Nathan’s tenacity paid off: after countless cold calls and education, customers began to recognize the value, leading to both rentals and purchases. “It felt like being a kid in a sandbox,” Nathan says.

As demand grew, so did Nathan’s role. Recognizing the need for more support, he was instrumental in hiring talented team members like Romeo Gerhardt for Kamloops and later expanding to Kelowna, Prince George, and Calgary. His ability to balance building client trust with team mentorship set the stage for his next step: becoming Regional Sales Manager.

A Day in the Life: Leading Through Problem-Solving and Mentorship

Nathan describes his role as part educator, part problem solver. Whether it’s tackling a complex Lean project to improve company efficiency or coaching new sales reps to achieve their full potential, Nathan’s day revolves around creating impact.

“I always challenge myself and my team to be 1% better every day,” he says. It’s a mindset that has built a culture of growth and accountability across his team.

Nathan’s favorite projects are those that drive positive change—whether internally through process improvements or externally by solving customer challenges. It’s not about one big win but rather a series of small, consistent efforts.

Staying Motivated Through Challenges: Nathan admits that tough days happen, but his outlook keeps him focused: “A smooth sea never made a skilled sailor.” Challenges, he believes, are opportunities to grow stronger as a mentor, manager, and person.

Building Strong Teams: The Culture of Continuous Improvement

Nathan describes Leavitt Machinery’s culture as a place where learning never stops. From foundational programs for new hires to advanced management training courses, he highlights how the company invests in its people:

“Fail, fail often, but learn,” he tells new trainees. For Nathan, leadership is about more than giving answers—it’s about teaching others to solve problems on their own.

Memorable Moments: One of Nathan’s favorite team bonding experiences was a golf trip to Arizona. “It gave us a chance to connect as individuals, not just coworkers. Those relationships still make us stronger today.”

Nathan’s leadership style is grounded in mutual respect, mentorship, and collaboration. Whether onboarding new reps or managing seasoned professionals, Nathan fosters an environment where every team member can thrive.

Living Leavitt’s Values: Leadership, Community, and Impact

Nathan’s belief in leadership and continuous improvement aligns closely with Leavitt Machinery’s values. He doesn’t just talk the talk—he walks the walk.

Take the example of JoeAnna’s House in Kelowna, a local charity that provides housing for families needing care at the Kelowna General Hospital. When a customer asked for support to install Christmas lights at the facility, Nathan’s team provided aerial work platforms at no cost.

“Something as small as providing support can make a big impact,” Nathan reflects. “Maybe no one noticed the lights—but maybe someone did, and it made their day a little better. That’s the kind of difference we want to make.”

Outside the Office: A Passion for Adventure and Lifelong Learning

When Nathan isn’t mentoring his team or helping customers succeed, you’ll find him outdoors—hiking, boating, sledding, or scuba diving. Staying active is his way of recharging and maintaining balance.

One fun fact? During the pandemic, Nathan decided to tackle a childhood dream: becoming a pilot. “I walked into a flight school and said, ‘I want to fly a plane.’” After years of training and dedication, Nathan earned his pilot’s license, following in the footsteps of his grandfather, a WWII pilot.

For Nathan, it’s all about challenging yourself and growing—personally and professionally.

Looking Ahead: Leading the Future at Leavitt Machinery

When asked about the future, Nathan’s focus is clear: continuing to mentor, inspire, and grow alongside his team.

“I don’t know exactly where I’ll be in five years, but I know I’ll keep learning, improving, and helping others achieve success.”

His advice to newcomers at Leavitt Machinery? “Believe in yourself. Someone saw something in you when they hired you—now it’s up to you to see it, too.”