As Chief of Party of the Promoting New Media and Media Convergence in Russia [6] program, Michael has overall responsibility for project implementation and management.
Under his leadership the project has built 12 sustainable partnerships between Russian, US, and EU organizations, including the Russian Union of Journalists, Media Lawyers Collegium, Columbia University, Kent University, The Los Angeles Times, National Public Radio, CNN, The Newspaper Guild, and many others. Michael facilitated the launch of the Russian Media Donors Forum to coordinate media development efforts by EU government donors, embassies, USAID, and private corporations. Michael initiated a series of educational seminars focusing on using new technologies in journalism, including blogging, social networks, and web media.
Prior to joining IREX, Michael administered a number of USAID projects in Europe and Eurasia and in the Middle East, and was actively involved in new business development in Washington, DC.
Michael started his career as a journalist at the BBC and Radio Free Europe in Moscow. He is the recipient of the Golden Microphone Award for a program produced on the BBC about war reporting.
Michael holds a master's degree from Georgetown University and an undergraduate degree from Moscow State University's journalism program.
Michael is an active practitioner of oriental martial arts, including Tae Kwon Do and Kung Fu