Michael came to the United States in 1978 to obtain his master's degree in business administration and to better understand other cultures as well. Soon after getting his MBA, he started managing luxury hotels such as the Chicago Hilton, Los Angeles Hyatt, and the Charlotte Radisson. In time, using this experience and along with his ability to develop business relationships, Michael launched a career as a restauranteur which led to restaurants in Santa Monica and then later in Downtown Los Angeles. During this time, he also consulted clients on the issues of opening and operating a restaurant which allowed other individuals to achieve their goals in owning their own establishments.