Michael Rees is a highly accomplished Founder, Entrepreneur, and Director with a wealth of experience in creating, operating, and administrating businesses across diverse sectors such as payment systems, real estate, and UHNW hospitality.

With extensive expertise in business creation, financial and commercial asset management, as well as risk management, Michael has proven his mettle in driving successful operations, spearheading sales and marketing initiatives, and establishing strong partnerships across various industries including Tech, FinTech, Cannabis, Fund Management, and the Restaurant sector.

As the Founder and Managing Partner at Rees Financial Group LLC, Michael displayed exemplary leadership as the Executive Director overseeing strategy, operations, and finance. During his tenure, the company specialized in real estate investment, particularly in multifamily low-income housing and community redevelopment. His responsibilities encompassed managing compliance, operations, property and market research, staff/vendor management, and devising effective go-to-market strategies.

Previously, as the Founder and Managing Partner at 3 E Wines Distribution LLC, he directed the company’s focus on wine distribution and import, concentrating on boutique wines, direct-to-consumer (DTC), and wine club sales. Here, Michael undertook a broad spectrum of tasks including business development, compliance adherence, financial oversight, operations management, and client onboarding.

His decade-long tenure as the Founder/CEO at National Payment Processors, Inc. (dba eCheck2000) was marked by pioneering ACH Network Payment System consulting and B2B SaaS sales management for banks, SMBs, and Fortune 100 companies. Notable accomplishments include creating and implementing risk management documentation and audit processes to ensure regulatory compliance.

Michael’s educational background includes a Le Grand Diploma in Culinary Arts/Chef Training from Le Cordon Bleu London. Additionally, he holds an AAP (Accredited ACH Professional) award for ACH and Federal Reserve Systems Compliance, Payment Processing, Operations, and Risk Management.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Michael actively contributes to his community by participating in programs like the San Luis Obispo Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Training, serving as a Board Member for various organizations such as the San Luis Obispo Museum of Art and engaging in fundraising events for entities like the San Diego Natural History Museum and the Center for Global Dialogue.

His skill set encompasses a wide range of competencies including stakeholder management, critical thinking, communication, compliance, strategic planning, risk management, financial services, real estate expertise, and more. Michael’s remarkable track record and diverse skill set position him as a seasoned professional capable of driving success across multifaceted business landscapes.

• Character: Michael Rees demonstrates unwavering integrity and commitment, reflected in his diverse professional background across payment systems, real estate, and UHNW hospitality, showcasing resilience and dedication to ethical business practices.
• Knowledge: With a multifaceted skill set encompassing financial management, compliance, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement, Michael Rees showcases a deep and comprehensive understanding across various industries, positioning him as a versatile leader.
• Strategic: Michael Rees exhibits exceptional strategic acumen through his adeptness in business creation, risk management, and operational optimization, illustrating a forward-thinking approach and an ability to navigate complexities within diverse business landscapes.
• Communication: Michael Rees excels in effective communication and relationship-building, evident in his proficiency in client engagement, mentorship, and consultancy, showcasing strong interpersonal skills and the capacity to convey complex concepts with clarity.