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Michael Kleinman
Founder at Orange Door Research
Professional Background
Michael Kleinman is an accomplished leader in the realm of international development and research, currently serving as the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Orange Door Research. Under his stewardship, the organization has established itself as a vital resource for international development organizations seeking to obtain actionable data in complex and challenging environments. By prioritizing effective feedback mechanisms between these organizations and the communities they aim to serve, Orange Door Research has expanded its impact through strategic partnerships with esteemed institutions such as the UN and World Bank, as well as various civil society organizations and donors.
Throughout his extensive career, Michael has been dedicated to designing and implementing cost-effective and timely data collection strategies that respond to the changing needs of people and communities. His insightful approach emphasizes the importance of directly engaging with community members, emphasizing a model where stakeholders are asked about their needs in a safe and scalable manner, ensuring that their voices are not only heard but prioritized in decision-making processes.
Education and Achievements
Michael is distinguished not only by his professional endeavors but also by his impressive educational background. He earned a Doctor of Jurisprudence in Law from Harvard Law School, an institution renowned for producing leaders in various fields. This rigorous legal training has equipped him with the analytical skills necessary for navigating the complexities of international law and human rights advocacy.
Prior to his legal studies, he obtained a Bachelor of Arts in History from Yale University, a prestigious Ivy League school known for its commitment to liberal arts education. His academic foundation in history has fostered a deep understanding of socio-political dynamics and historical contexts, essential qualities for his role in international advocacy and development.
Notable Roles and Contributions
Before founding Orange Door Research, Michael Kleinman held several influential positions that further honed his expertise in humanitarian issues and advocacy. At Amnesty International, he served as the Director of the Silicon Valley Initiative, a role that required him to leverage innovative strategies and collaborations to promote human rights on a global scale. His leadership within this initiative exemplified his ability to marry technology with humanitarian goals, driving impactful results that resonated across various communities.
Michael's experience at Humanity United as the Director of Investments and previously as the Investment Manager allowed him to engage with funding mechanisms and strategic investments that bolster humanitarian efforts worldwide. His time at Humanity United was characterized by a commitment to fostering collaborations that lead to meaningful change in the lives of marginalized populations.
In addition, as an Independent Consultant and Researcher, Michael has been able to apply his insights across a spectrum of organizations, tailoring data collection methodologies that are both relevant and responsive to the unique challenges faced in each context.
His roles at International Relief and Development (IRD) as a Project Operations Officer and with Care USA as the Regional Advocacy Advisor for East and Central Africa, among other positions, showcase a consistent trajectory of dedication to international advocacy and project management. His work with Care USA involved coordinating advocacy efforts in Sudan and Afghanistan, where he played a pivotal role in articulating policies that addressed pressing humanitarian needs.
In his early career, Michael contributed significantly as a Program Associate at the Program on Humanitarian Policy and Conflict Research at Harvard University. This foundational position helped him develop a sophisticated understanding of humanitarian norms and the critical evaluation of ongoing conflicts, shaping the perspective that informs his work today.
Through these myriad roles, Michael Kleinman has not only developed a comprehensive understanding of the international development landscape but has also cultivated relationships with key stakeholders necessary for driving forward impactful change.
Achievements
Michael's professional journey is marked by numerous achievements, including the successful establishment of Orange Door Research, which stands out as a flagship initiative dedicated to collecting and utilizing data in a manner that champions community engagement. His approach has garnered recognition for its innovative method of directly connecting organizations with the voices of those they serve.
His strategic partnerships with major international organizations underscore his profound ability to bridge the gap between data collection and community needs. This level of engagement is critical in today's rapidly changing global landscape, where understanding local dynamics can significantly influence the success of international programs.
Overall, Michael Kleinman's vast experience and rich educational background grant him a unique perspective on international development. His career history is a testament to his commitment to elevating the voices of individuals within the global community, ensuring they are heard and prioritized in the processes designed to aid and support them. As he continues to lead Orange Door Research, his impact on the field of international development is poised to grow, aligning with the evolving needs of communities around the globe.
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