As one of the founding partners of the Elevation Burger franchise company, Michael has lead the company’s growth from a single restaurant to a chain of over 55 restaurants in seven countries and an organization of 20+ staff members.  Under Michael’s supply chain leadership, Elevation Burger’s purchases of certified organic, grass-fed beef have grown into one of the largest certified organic beef purchasing programs in the United States. Michael is also responsible for developing the restaurant chain’s organic pork bacon and organic chicken programs, growing each into the largest such program of any restaurant group in the United States.  Additionally, Michael has been the executive in charge of franchise development/sales and real estate development at various times in the company’s history.  Michael has been featured in various forms of media and is a recognized leader in international franchise development and sustainable food supply chains.  Michael currently serves on The Organic Center’s Board of Trustees and Food Tank’s Board of Directors and was recently honored as the Organic Trade Association’s “Rising Star” of 2015.