Michael Preston

Michael Preston is a seasoned financial executive with extensive experience in leadership roles across various sectors. Currently serving as the Consulting CFO and Raleigh Office Leader for CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen) since January 2023, Michael previously held the position of Chief Financial Officer at EDJX, Inc., co-founding the firm focused on AI-enhancing Software-as-a-Service solutions. As Managing Director at Red Pelican Ventures, LLC from June 2004 to September 2018, Michael established a firm specializing in CFO and merchant banking services for high-growth companies. Earlier, Michael was a Senior Principal at Southeast Interactive Technology Funds, managing a $136 million venture capital fund, and held the role of Senior Manager at Ernst & Young Orenda Corporate Finance, concentrating on capital raising strategies. Academic qualifications include a Juris Doctorate in Law and Entrepreneurship from the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law, an MBA in Entrepreneurship from the University of Maryland - Robert H. Smith School of Business, and a BS/BA in Manufacturing and Finance from The Ohio State University Fisher College of Business.