Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Michael Bien

Toronto,ON

Summary

I am an experienced and highly motivated professional with a proven track record of success across various industries, including non-profits, film production, development, and wholesale. Known for my strong work ethic, accountability, and ability to foster positive, collaborative environments, I have built lasting relationships with stakeholders, from clients to colleagues. My ability to navigate complex challenges, drive revenue growth, and manage large-scale projects has earned me a reputation for being both results-driven and approachable. As I look forward to the next chapter of my career, I am excited to bring my skills and experience to new opportunities and contribute to the success of your team.

Overview

16
16
years of professional experience

Work History

Director of Development

The Leo Baeck Day School
08.2020 - 02.2025
  • Managed all aspects of fundraising and community engagement, fostering a culture of philanthropy.
  • Cultivated strong relationships with key stakeholders—including parents, grandparents, alumni, and staff—through strategic outreach and events, resulting in increased philanthropic support and community involvement. - A culture of giving.
  • Led annual fundraising efforts, consistently exceeding targets and raising $900,000 in 2025 with a minimum 20% year-over-year increase.
  • Secured multiple seven-figure gifts, including a lead $5M contribution to the capital campaign.
  • Regularly presented fundraising strategies and progress reports to the Board of Directors.
  • Guided the Development Team through fiscal goal setting, strategic planning, and implementation to optimize fundraising success.
  • Served as a senior advisor to the Head of School and Board of Directors on donor relations, providing strategic insights and solutions to enhance engagement and giving.

President / Producer

Cedarvale Pictures
01.2016 - 09.2020
  • Led a successful capital raise of approximately $12M USD for film production and distribution.
  • Built and maintained relationships with top-tier talent representatives, union officials, and sales agencies
  • Managed large teams of unionized employees, ensuring seamless production operations.
  • Developed innovative fundraising initiatives and content acquisition strategies.
  • Cultivated strong partnerships with federal and provincial government funding agencies to secure financial support.

Producer

Oriah Entertainment
12.2010 - 12.2015
  • Led the Canadian division of a U.S./Canadian film production company, overseeing all business operations.
  • Raised approximately $30M USD in capital for film production and distribution.
  • Cultivated and maintained strong relationships with key investors while actively developing new investment opportunities.
  • (Film production)
  • Created pitch presentations for potential investors or network executives.
  • Oversaw all stages of pre-production, production, and post-production processes.
  • Kept production on-target to attain goals with regular monitoring and meetings.

Director of Merchandising

Bio Lab International
12.2008 - 12.2011
  • Developed and successfully sold health and beauty products to major retail chains across Canada and the U.S.
  • Negotiated contracts and secured placements with key buyers from top-tier retailers.
  • Managed international shipments, ensuring efficient logistics and timely delivery.
  • Created and presented merchandise assortment plans to senior leadership, incorporating market trends and feedback.
  • Fostered a collaborative work environment, promoting cross-departmental communication and teamwork.
  • Analyzed sales data to identify growth opportunities and optimize product offerings.
  • Conducted competitor analysis to stay ahead of industry trends and enhance market positioning.

Education

Musical Theatre

The Randolph Academy of The Arts
06-2003

Skills

  • Charismatic communicator
  • Effective relationship builder
  • Donor relations
  • Fundraising expertise
  • Major gifts solicitation
  • Planned giving
  • Stakeholder engagement
  • Team collaboration
  • Goal setting
  • Community outreach
  • Volunteer coordination
  • Campaign execution
  • Board relations
  • Staff training
  • Project management
  • Strategic planning
  • Analytical thinking
  • Accountability
  • Adaptability and flexibility

Timeline

Director of Development

The Leo Baeck Day School
08.2020 - 02.2025

President / Producer

Cedarvale Pictures
01.2016 - 09.2020

Producer

Oriah Entertainment
12.2010 - 12.2015

Director of Merchandising

Bio Lab International
12.2008 - 12.2011

Musical Theatre

The Randolph Academy of The Arts

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Michael Bien