Michael Lai

Michael Lai's work experience begins with their current role as a Sr. Financial Planning & Analysis Manager at Blaize. In this position, they are responsible for comprehensive strategic planning, forecasting, finance, and KPI reporting. Michael has implemented systems such as Oracle NetSuite and Microsoft Power BI applications and leads strategic and financial analysis to support important decision-making processes.

Prior to their current role, Michael served as a Senior Finance Manager at SBM Management Services, LP from 2019 to 2021, where they were responsible for corporate financial management, operating budgets, and forecasting. Michael worked closely with the CEO and CFO on financial planning and identified strategies for efficiencies and long-term growth. Michael also handled ad hoc projects such as return on investment, cash flow, and headcount analysis. From 2015 to 2019, they served as a Finance Manager at the same company.

Before joining SBM Management Services, LP, Michael worked as a Senior Operations Manager at WinPark in 2014, overseeing operations and financial support for multiple locations. Michael prepared and managed an annual budget in excess of $4.5 million and reviewed and analyzed operating and financial statements.

From 2011 to 2014, Michael was a Senior Operations Manager at Ace Parking, where they were responsible for operations and finance support across multiple locations. Michael also facilitated the drafting of proposals for potential new businesses and was involved in hiring, training, and performance management. Prior to that, from 2010 to 2011, they served as a Hotel Site Manager at Ace Parking, handling the operations and finance support at the Double Tree Hotel.

Finally, Michael began their career at Tony's Fine Foods in 2008 as a General Expense Accounts Payable Specialist, before transitioning to the role of Operations Management/Analyst. In this role, they oversaw and managed the logistics department and served as the main contact for vendors, clients, staff, and management. Michael was responsible for resolving daily challenges, meeting critical timeframes, and responding effectively to last-minute changes.

Overall, Michael Lai has accumulated extensive experience in finance, operations, strategic planning, and budget management throughout their career.

Michael Lai pursued their Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree in Human Resources Management/Personnel Administration, General at Keller Graduate School of Management of DeVry University from 2013 to 2015. Prior to that, they obtained their Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Economics and Communication from the University of California, Davis. No additional information about their education history is provided.