As our new Operations Manager, Michael is focused on building and refining the systems that keep things running smoothly, from facilities to workflows to the tools staff rely on every day. With a background that spans art, nonprofits, and process design (plus a surprising start glazing ceramics in a production factory), Michael brings a thoughtful, detail-oriented approach to making things work better; for staff, and ultimately, for the community we serve.
Name/Nickname: Michael
Pronouns: he/him
Job title: Operations Manager
Where’d you come from and what’d you do there? I moved to Virginia Beach in August of 2019 from Michigan, where the cold never bothered me anyway. Back in Mi, I got my bachelor’s from Eastern Michigan University in Art History, with a minor in studio production. My first job out of college was as a bulb glazer at a ceramics factory (Motawi Tileworks, they make beautiful things, check them out) that used Toyota Style production methodology, and I got really into the concept of efficiency and iterative systems design being foundational aspects of really effective businesses. Building and revamping systems was a core part of what I brought to other roles, like when I was a manager at a day spa (Jessica’s Apothecary and Spa, I miss the free skincare advice), and the smattering of barista jobs I worked. When I moved in with family down in Virginia Beach I got a job at the Chrysler Museum as a gallery guide, and that was hands down my favorite job ever. Ask me about the collection there, or about art in general. After the pandemic I found myself with Blue Box Auction Gallery, where I helped build a lot of the processes they still use. After that, I went to ForKids, where I was a grants billing specialist for three years. That really helped me appreciate how much good nonprofits do in the world, and where I really sharpened my skills with systems like Excel and SharePoint.
I’m here to help you with… I’m your facilities and systems guy! As admin, I won’t work with many of you directly or ever really interact with clients, but it is my job (eventually) to make sure that I help the background systems run so smoothly you don’t notice them. I want to make sure our work areas are clean and well maintained, your equipment works well, and you have access to all the systems you need access to. It may be a minute until I am able to take over completely from Chris, but I’m thorough and ready for the challenge.
How did you become interested in working at LGBT Life Center? I used the Life Center’s services when I first got to the area, so I’ve been aware of what the agency does for some time. Recently, a friend let me know about the open position here and I thought it would be a good fit, and who doesn’t want the opportunity to contribute to a community they care about?
What’s an interesting thing about you that most people don’t know? I’m into historical costuming. I’m also a big Sci-Fi nerd. For a while I was a member of the Ann Arbor Bonsai Society and helped work on some incredible collections of bonsai.
What excites you most about being at LGBT Life Center? The chance to give back to a community that means a lot to me, and to work with friends who care about that community too.
Rapid Fire…what is your favorite…
Animal: Cats
Color: Jade Green
Song/Music: Dance pop. Give me a euro disco EDM hit any day.
TV Show/Movie: 2005’s Pride and Prejudice
Hobby: Bookbinding
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