Michael Pawson

Michael Pawson has a diverse range of work experience in various industries. Michael started their career as a Chemical Engineer at NeXstar Pharmaceuticals in 1994. In 2000, they joined McKinsey & Company as an Engagement Manager, where they worked on projects related to operational efficiency in industries such as logistics, electric power, and refining.

In 2003, Pawson became the Chief Financial Officer at the Houston Symphony, where they successfully managed the organization's financial and IT aspects and significantly reduced a $3.6 million deficit. Michael held this position for ten years until 2013.

During their tenure at the Houston Symphony, Pawson also worked as a Consultant and Interim CFO at Theatre Under The Stars in 2013.

In 2014, they transitioned to Genesys Works as the CFO, overseeing the financial operations of a fast-growing nonprofit with multiple subsidiaries. Pawson played a vital role on the Board Finance & Audit Committee and served as the organization's national representative to the Houston subsidiary's Board.

Following their time at Genesys Works, Pawson served as the Chief Financial Officer at the Greater Houston Community Foundation. Under their leadership, the organization experienced significant growth in assets, increasing from $600 million to over $1.3 billion.

Pawson also has experience in education, having worked as a Lecturer at Rice University since 2012.

Throughout their career, Pawson has showcased their expertise in finance, operations, and leadership, achieving impressive results in various roles and industries.

Michael Pawson holds a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Chemical Engineering and Economics from Caltech, which they obtained from 1991 to 1995. Michael further pursued their education at the University of Minnesota, where they earned a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering from 1996 to 2000.

In addition to their formal education, Michael Pawson has acquired several certifications throughout their career. Michael obtained the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) designation from Certified Management Accountant: CMA® in March 2010. Subsequently, they achieved various levels of recognition in the IMA Leadership Academy (IMALA) offered by the Institute of Management Accountants: Pewter Level in May 2015, Bronze Level in December 2017, Silver Level in June 2018, and Gold Level in April 2019. Furthermore, they obtained the Certified Fraud Examiner designation from the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) in June 2017.

Michael Pawson has also demonstrated their expertise in data analytics and visualization by obtaining the IMA Data Analytics & Visualization Fundamentals Certificate from the IMA | Institute of Management Accountants in August 2020. Additionally, they obtained the IMA Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Practices Certificate from the Institute of Management Accountants in March 2023.