I build at the intersection of tech, media, and the creator economy.

I have midwest roots, west coast experience, and an east coast MBA.

I’m a constant work in progress.

Welcome!

Hi! I’m Michael. I’m a Northeast Ohio native who has spent most of my adult life in California.

Work

My career experiences have sat at the intersection of technology and media for over a decade. I love to develop business that empowers creative storytelling.

Study

My education has pushed me to think outside the box when it comes to making an impact in today’s world. I’ve studied finance, economics, strategy, & Spanish.

Play

I enjoy traveling around the world, eating new foods, watching and playing sports, and spending quality family time with my wife and son. I’m a lucky guy!

Looking Backward

I have been fortunate to have tremendous and impactful experiences in my career and education. A brief snapshot of my path:

TikTok | 2016-Present | Los Angeles, CA

Currently leading Distribution BD globally, covering new deal development, strategic partner management, and regional strategy teams. Driving impactful partnerships focused on growth, retention, and innovation. Spent time working on Content through acquisition.

musical.ly | 2016-2018 (acq.) | Los Angeles, CA

Joined a startup to focus on the newest iteration of social entertainment. Launched first professionally generated content (PGC) partnerships for publishers and creators. Also worked to launch custom brand and creator monetization deals.

The Wharton School | 2014-2016 | Philadelphia, PA

Took 2 years away from the corporate world to pursue professional and personal interests, travel the world on a budget, and perfect networking, informational interviews, and coffee chats. Graduated with an MBA in Strategic Management.

YouTube | 2012-2014 | Bay Area, CA

Designed strategic models and financial plans for individual content deals and the overall funded content portfolio during the first days of original programming for digital platforms. Developed a love for the intersection of media, content, and technology.

Google | 2010-2014 | Bay Area, CA

Kicked off my corporate career by buying a one-way ticket to San Francisco and working in big tech. Learned financial strategic planning, forecasting, and working with business partners in FP&A. Developed an understanding of how businesses work.

The University of Akron | 2006-2010 | Akron, OH

Explored multiple areas of study, led student clubs for business and entrepreneurship, worked on and off campus, and traveled and studied abroad for the first time to Europe and Asia. Graduated with an BS in Finance, BA in Economics, and a minor in Spanish.

Looking Forward

Additionally, I consult for a variety of startups and frequently speak at conferences discussing my experiences within tech, content, strategy and business development. Newer areas of interest:

Creator Economy & The Future of Content

Career Trajectory & Mentorship

Global Speaking Engagements

Mobile World Congress | Barcelona

Sports Innovation Summit | Tokyo

Brandweek | Istanbul

LEADERS Conference | New York

The University of Akron | Akron

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