Max Michaels

Investor & Innovator in Mindful AI

Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

About

Leading a venture capital firm with over two decades of experience, Max's focus has been on fostering innovation in AI-driven companies across diverse sectors, including EdTech, FinTech, Biotech, and IT Security. With a current portfolio of 15 companies - such as OpenAI and Pryon - his mission is to enable transformative growth through strategic investments and ethical AI practices. Contributions include guiding boards such as Clasp.com and advising technology innovators like Versa Networks and Porosome Therapeutics. Previous roles include heading IBM's $3 billion Network Services business, driving offerings, sales, and delivery alongside global teams. Recognized for expertise in strategic leadership and ethical AI, the goal is to collaborate with organizations to unlock impactful opportunities. Publications in McKinsey Quarterly and Strategic Management Journal further reflect a commitment to thought leadership in corporate strategy and innovation. Max was a keynote speaker on Cognitive Computing at the SE4COG international conference in Sweden in 2018. He is currently a Board Advisor at Strategic Management Review.

Experience

  • Co-Founder at Mindful AI Foundation
    Jan 2026 - Present · 6 mos

    https://mindfulai.foundation

  • Chief Executive Officer at CRYZTAL CAPITAL
    Jan 2002 - Present · 24 yrs 6 mos

    Investments in Private Companies | Strategic Business Development. Portfolio of 15 companies across AI, EdTech, FinTech, Biotech, and IT Security, including Pryon, Clasp, and OpenAI.

  • Founding Investor & Board Member at Stride Funding | Clasp.com
    May 2019 - Apr 2024 · 5 yrs

  • General Manager | Global Head of Network Services at IBM
    Mar 2017 - Apr 2019 · 2 yrs 2 mos

    Global head of IBM Network Services business that serves large enterprises in partnership with leading technology and telecom companies. Oversees ~$3 billion in signings and directly manages the vice presidents of offerings, sales and delivery, and directs VPs of marketing and finance.

  • Vice President - Corporate Strategy at AT&T Corporation | T
    Nov 2015 - Feb 2017 · 1 yr 4 mos

    Led teams developing cross business unit strategies at the$160B+ corporation during a period of major diversification and strategic expansion. Worked closely with the top leadership team on strategy projects and presentations to the Board. Collaborated with the CTO on technology strategies such as 5G and SD-WAN.