Hi there.
My name is Michel, and I am a laid-back yet driven individual with a colorful background in industrial design, business strategy, and management. I’m currently working on my MBA at COPPEAD – Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro and taking part as exchange student at The Wharton School in fall of 2023 before I graduate.
I’ve had quite the adventure throughout my career, dabbling in innovative product design and leading amazing teams to achieve strategic goals. My journey has taken me from designing innovative products to leading talented teams, all while making strategic decisions that drive growth and success.
When I’m not diving into work, you’ll likely find me with my wife splashing around with our two kids, who are my world. I’m also an avid traveler and culture enthusiast, always eager to explore the diverse customs, traditions, and experiences this planet has to offer.
To sum it up, I’m a free-spirited explorer with a talent for design, strategic thinking, and leadership. I’m stoked to join forces with organizations that align with my passion for innovation and positive impact.
Together, we can make waves and shape the future!
I was born in New York, but my upbringing took place in the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro. At the age of 17, I moved back to the United States and have since divided my time equally between both countries. Despite my strong ties to these places, my heart remains open to the possibility of exploring new horizons and embracing new adventures.
Experience
Are Embalagens Innovation Manager
Led a multidisciplinary team in developing and executing company’s product design and development strategy
2016-2022
Are Embalagens Head of Design
Managed aspects of cross-functional project including strategic planning and budget forecasting; revamped operational strategy
2016-2022
Pangea Agro Co-Founder
Built an online market network to connect coffee producers directly with global roasters offering 10% cost savings in coffee supply chain
2019 – 2021
MHM-Design Principal
Designed and developed product concepts for multiple brands
2012-2013
Trunk & Trolley Design Manager
Created new lines of luggage and laptop cases for licensed brands, meeting overall program objectives
2010-2012
Briggs & Riley Travelware Industrial Design Engineer
Conceptualized and developed 2 new luggage collections, optimizing processes for cost reduction and innovation
2007-2010
MedX Corporation Industrial Designer
Managed a project with a multidisciplinary team of engineers to create a next generation exercise equipment
2003-2007
Education
The Wharton School - UPenn MBA Exchange Program
I was honored to be selected as the top student from COPPEAD UFRJ to participate in the prestigious Wharton Exchange program.
Fall 2023
COPPEAD - UFRJ Fulltime MBA
During my MBA journey at COPPEAD, I specialized in strategy and innovation, delving into the dynamic world of business. For my master’s thesis, I conducted extensive research on leveraging the power of AI to map complex business ecosystems
2022-2024
MIT BOOTCAMP Certificate in New Ventures and Leadership
I had the incredible opportunity to attend the immersive MIT Bootcamp held in Rio de Janeiro, where I collaborated with more than 100 students from 15 countries. Together, we envisioned and developed a groundbreaking marketplace connecting coffee producers directly with global buyers. Our innovative solution earned us the prestigious 1st place award on pitch day, and our idea later evolved into a successful startup venture, revolutionizing the coffee industry.
August 2018
Auburn University Bachelor's in Industrial Design
As one of the top Design programs in the country, Auburn ID thought me design principles and methodology, as well as gave me the opportunity to participate in corporate sponsored projects with Eastman, Emerson Tools and Brother.
2000 – 2003