As Tala’s newly appointed Chief Operating Officer, Michael will oversee and lead our global operations across all aspects of our business. Michael joins Tala as a seasoned tech executive with over 20 years of experience in incubating, scaling, and steering global companies through dynamic growth phases.
Tell us about your background!
I’ve spent 20+ years across tech and financial services, starting my career at Washington Mutual before transitioning into the tech industry. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of holding a variety of operating, commercial, and general management roles at Microsoft, LinkedIn, Twitch, and most recently Linktree. On the personal front, I’m married with two boys who keep me very busy!
What drew you to Tala?
My belief that technology can be a powerful equalizer drew me to Tala. I’m deeply inspired by technology’s potential to bridge critical gaps in people’s lives and bring resources and opportunities to communities that are often overlooked. Tala’s mission profoundly resonates with me in how it leverages technology to drive financial inclusion and empowerment on a large scale. Additionally, I’ve been incredibly impressed by Tala’s team — it’s rare to find a group so genuinely passionate and connected to a mission and the problem they’re working to solve. Being surrounded by that kind of energy every day is inspiring and motivating!
How do you feel about remote work for a global company like Tala, especially as you’re starting to get a feel for the team and operations?
I view remote work as a tremendous asset, especially for a global company like Tala. It allows us to tap into a diverse talent pool and gather perspectives from around the world, reflecting where our customers live and enriching our approach to solving complex, global challenges. Starting remotely has allowed me to quickly connect with team members across different regions and get a sense of how people work. I also like that when I join a video call, our tiles are all the same size. In a way, the format works as an equalizer and lends itself to more honest and horizontal communication. That said, I also believe it’s important to create a regular cadence for in-person collaboration. Building a balance between the flexibility of remote work and the energy of face-to-face interactions will be key as we continue to grow and strengthen our global team.
As a seasoned COO, how do you define operational efficiency, and how do you ensure that company values are reflected in daily operations and decision-making?
To me, operational efficiency goes beyond speed or cost-saving; it’s about building systems that empower teams to perform at their best, foster innovation, and enable sustainable growth. True efficiency means aligning teams and processes to minimize friction, streamline decision-making, and keep our focus on delivering meaningful value to our customers.
As for values, I believe they are not just words on a page; values are actions. They reflect our culture and how we operate day-to-day. When values are fully integrated, they guide our behavior and set clear expectations, serving as a compass that keeps us accountable to high standards. They influence everything from our interactions to our strategic choices, ensuring that every decision we make reflects our commitment to what matters most.
