Trusted financial and operational advisor to public sector leaders navigating transformation
15+ years of experience supporting all levels of government
Expertise supporting public and non-profit organizations navigating bankruptcy
Los Angeles (Center Drive)
@alvarezmarsal
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Michael Potter is a Senior Director with Alvarez & Marsal Public Sector Services in Washington, D.C. He specializes in turning complex data into actionable insights to improve return on investment in the public sector. His primary areas of concentration are financial management and operations in education agencies and state and local governments.
With more than 15 years of state, local and education experience, Mr. Potter has supported critical operational efficiency and transformation initiatives for law enforcement agencies, public and private K-12 school districts and public transportation agencies.
Mr. Potter’s notable assignments include supporting the bankruptcy-like restructuring of a toll and highways authority; leading the transformation of a large K-12 education organization as it navigated the COVID-19 pandemic; and leading high-profile investigations into education and public safety agencies.
Most recently, Mr. Potter supported one of the nation’s largest school districts in improving financial operations, strengthening financial management capabilities and developing analytical tools to support long-term revitalization. He has worked with clients at all levels of government (local, state and federal) and supported non-profits and corporate organizations navigating bankruptcy.
Prior to joining A&M, Mr. Potter spent six years with Grant Thornton LLP in Washington, D.C., where he provided financial support to various agencies of the Department of Homeland Security, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement, where he led the development of a comprehensive workforce model.
Mr. Potter earned a bachelor’s degree in public administration from Oakland University and an MPA from Indiana University. He is a certified Project Management Professional and a Certified Six Sigma Green Belt.
Cyberattacks on EdTech vendors and Student Information Systems are increasing, putting student data, district operations and community trust at risk. This article discusses the growing threats of third-party cyberattacks and provides actionable steps education leaders can take to protect their districts today.
Chronic absenteeism is costing K–12 districts millions in lost funding. A&M’s Michael Potter and Mayura Zink examine the financial risks of absenteeism and offer actionable solutions to help districts improve attendance, stabilize budgets and support long-term student outcomes.
In the wake of the pandemic’s impacts to an already fragile system, superintendents face the next wave of financial and operational challenges. As the deadline to use remaining ESSER funds approaches, education leaders have a “once in a generation” opportunity to make structural and operational changes to better serve students.
Latest insightsThe latest insights from Michael Potter's team
In a recent article, A&M Talent, Organization & People Solutions experts outline how organizations can modernize workflows, strengthen compliance and rebuild employee trust, all while boosting business agility.
