Gavin Michael is the CEO of Bakkt, a company focused on connecting commerce through technology and offering solutions for the crypto economy. With an extensive background in the financial and technology sectors, Michael has held significant positions at major institutions such as Citi, Chase, Accenture, and National Australia Bank. Under his leadership, Bakkt achieved milestones such as its public listing in 2021 and the strategic acquisition of Apex Crypto.
Who is the CEO of Bakkt?
Gavin Michael, a seasoned professional with a strong background in technology and banking, has held various significant positions throughout his career. Before joining Bakkt as CEO, he served as the Head of Technology for Citi's Global Consumer Bank, where he was responsible for the strategic direction, planning, and management of the bank's global technology organization. Prior to Citi, Michael was the Head of Digital for Consumer & Community Banking at Chase, overseeing all aspects of the digital business, including the Chase Mobile App and Chase Online.
His earlier career includes roles as the Chief Technology Innovation Officer at Accenture, IT director for Lloyds Banking Group's retail banking business, Head of Strategy and Architecture at National Australia Bank, and senior technology roles at IBM and Avanade, Inc. As the CEO of Bakkt, he has played a crucial role in the company's growth, including its public listing, strategic acquisitions, and securing critical partnerships.
Work History
- Bakkt, Chief Executive Officer (2021 - Present)
- Citi, Head of Technology, Global Consumer Bank (2016 - 2021)
- Chase, Head of Digital (2013 - 2016)
- Accenture, Chief Innovation Officer (2010 - 2013)
- Lloyds Banking Group, Chief Information Officer (2009 - 2010)
- Lloyds TSB Group, Chief Information Officer (2008 - 2009)
- Lloyds TSB Group, Chief Technology Officer (2006 - 2008)
- National Australia Bank, General Manager (2003 - 2006)
- IBM, Partner (2001 - 2003)
- 724 Solutions, Vice President (2000 - 2001)
- IBM, Senior Manager (1998 - 2000)
- Lucent Technologies Bell Labs, Senior Engineer (1998)
- Fujitsu, Senior Engineer (1996 - 1997)
Education History
Gavin Michael's educational background is rooted in computer science and information technology. He earned his Bachelor of Science with Honors in Computer Science and Information Technology from the University of Western Australia in 1988. Following his undergraduate studies, Michael pursued a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Computer Science at the Australian National University, completing his degree in 1996.
When did Gavin Michael join Bakkt?
Gavin Michael joined Bakkt as the Chief Executive Officer on January 1, 2021. Since then, he has been leading the company for over three years, playing a crucial role in its growth and development. His tenure at Bakkt has been marked by significant milestones, such as the company's public listing and strategic acquisitions, as well as securing critical partnerships in the industry.