Michael is Chair of ISTD (Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing), a governor of Trinty Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance, a member of the Greenheart Learning Partnership, and Pro-Chancellor of the University of Wolverhampton.

During his professional career he served as Director, Culture in the Department of Culture, Media, and Sport (DCMS) and as Chief Executive of ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music), the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic, the Royal Scottish National Orchestra, West Midlands Arts Board, and the Heart of England Tourist Board.

Michael is a former Chair of the Belgrade Theatre, Coventry and Deputy Chair of the Crucible Theatre, Sheffield and has served on the boards of schools and tertiary educational institutions.

He is a recipient of honorary doctorates from Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Wolverhampton.