Michael has over 20 years of experience in International Development. His early work in humanitarian response opened his eyes to the interconnectedness of ecosystem health, agricultural livelihoods, inclusive markets, and community well-being. This realization led him to focus on regenerative agriculture and circular economies, which offer social, economic, and environmental benefits.

Starting his career in the private sector in the US, Michael moved to Africa in 2008, living and working in Botswana, Ethiopia, Jordan, Kenya, South Sudan, and Uganda, while also supporting programs in additional countries such as Bangladesh, Chad, China, Mali, Nicaragua, Nigeria, and Somalia. Over 15 years of experience living and working abroad has given him a deep understanding of the field, enabling him to support iDE programs with an appreciation for the complexities at the project level. He has led projects in partnership with a wide range of donors, including the EU, European governments, the Green Climate Fund, USAID, UKAID, and the United Nations.

Before joining iDE, Michael had long been a collaborator, including as a peer implementing the BRACED Program (Building Resilience and Adaptation to Climate Extremes and Disasters) and as Chief of Party for RIPA South in Ethiopia (Resilience in Pastoral Areas). His connection to iDE dates back even further to his master’s thesis in 2008, which was largely based on the theories in Paul Polak's book “Out of Poverty.”

Michael holds a BSBA (Bachelor of Science in Business Administration), an MBA (Master of Business Administration), and an MA in International Relations, all from Boston University. His passions include farming, nature, and spending time with his family.