While there may be leaders who are not developing trust with their employees, Michael is the consummate leader who could teach a master class on developing solid relationships with his direct reports. He is an incredible advocate for his team and establishes a safe space for thought-provoking, candid conversation. He earned my trust and I would enthusiastically work for him again.
Managing Director, Portfolio of Companies · AWS Direct Report
On Trust and Advocacy
Michael has had an exemplary career in consulting technology and his prowess continues to show in his growth as a well-respected leader. He challenged the status quo, navigated difficult topics with remarkable skill and care, and always offered a diverse perspective that considered the whole rather than a subset. He possesses the full 360-degree portfolio of qualities to be an effective and transformative leader at the highest levels.
Vice Dean of Executive Programs, NYU Stern School of Business
On Career Excellence and Character
Michael is a leader in thought, discussion, and class participation, never a dull moment when it comes to his interaction. He provided unique and diverse opinions and clearly communicated his thoughts across a large group in a manner that caught the attention of every listener. His verbal delivery and communication style are qualities that warrant leadership at the highest levels.
Heinz Riehl Chair Professor of Business, NYU Stern School of Business
On Intellect and Presence
Your journey from Wilson, North Carolina to Global Head at Amazon Web Services embodies the very ideals we uphold at MCNY. Your commitment to creating STEM pathways for underrepresented youth is a powerful example of using success as a lasting platform for community impact. Your story will inspire our graduates and affirm the values that define our mission.
President, Metropolitan College of New York
On Legacy and Impact
Michael brought tremendous value to our CSM Leadership Team at AWS. He often asked the hard questions, the ones that needed to be raised, always respectfully and professionally. He helped me gain new perspectives on leadership, our customers, and the Automotive and Manufacturing industry. He embraced Amazon's Leadership Principles and served as a model for others to follow.
Customer Success Leader at AWS · Peer Colleague
On Strategic Thinking and Standards
Michael is an outstanding SAP professional focused on helping clients succeed in their Application Lifecycle Management requirements. His client-facing management and technical skills are exceptional and worthy of year-after-year accolades. His authenticity and high EQ have consistently made him a respected professional that both internal and external constituencies repeatedly want to work with. His value-focused approach drives his team's energy toward high-value outcomes his clients point to as key to their success.
CEO and President · Former Direct Manager at SAP
On Client Excellence and EQ
Michael is a leader who exemplifies the highest standards of excellence in both customer engagement and team leadership. He fully embodies Customer Obsession, Ownership, and Insisting on the Highest Standards. Beyond his customer-centric approach, Michael fosters a culture of trust, collaboration, and high performance, developing talent through transparent, inclusive communication that empowers his team to reach their full potential.
Senior Enterprise Leader, AI and Cloud Transformation at AWS · Direct Report
On Excellence and People Leadership
I had the privilege of having Michael as my direct leader at AWS. He exemplifies empathy for his employees while being deeply supportive of their professional goals. He pushed me to think even bigger, connected me to his network, and created real pathways for success. He sincerely cares and makes sure to show it. Michael, you will be missed.
Business and Technical Strategy Executive · AWS Direct Report
On Mentorship and Empowerment
Michael is a leader that motivates action. He brings compelling urgency to everything he works on while being crisp and clear on the "why." His ability to communicate the importance and context of action needed is his superpower, inspiring even the most challenging personalities to rise up and contribute. He is also a master relationship builder who crossed all cliques and connected people to their greatest potential.
NYU Stern Executive MBA, J18 Class
On Leadership and Connection
I can't recommend Mike enough having worked with him for nearly two decades at SAP. He is an exceptional leader who empowers his team with clear, level-headed vision and support while keeping a sense of humor in the face of adversity. His honesty and reliability made him a favorite at both internal and customer-facing events. Mike is an extremely capable leader with both technical and management depth; an invaluable asset to any organization.
Senior Product Manager, ALM Communications and Influence · SAP
On Technical and Leadership Excellence
Michael is professional, thorough, and highly knowledgeable on a great number of topics. He is a proven leader driven by results. His competitiveness and infectious smile bring a great balance to any work atmosphere. It was a pleasure to work with Mike and we continue to celebrate the impact he made in paving the way for continued success at Becton Dickinson.
Director, Global Release and Integrated Operations · Becton Dickinson
On Results and Presence
Michael and I have worked together on different initiatives for over 11 years. He has demonstrated excellent technical knowledge, business acumen, and a high level of partnership throughout. He is clear about expectations, concise about what is required to be successful, and straightforward in his delivery. I always leave an engagement with Michael pleased with the results and confident that my team is ready to move forward with a solid solution.
Servant Leader · Strategic Thinker · SAP Colleague and Client
On Partnership and Clarity