Michael Haag is an experienced leader in technology transfer, innovation management, and start-up creation, with over 25 years of experience. Since 2013, he served as the Executive Director of Technology Management at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) until June of 2023, overseeing a Technology Transfer Office responsible for the commercialization of innovations arising from over $400 million in research annually.

During his tenure at CWRU, Michael led the re-establishment of Case Technology Ventures (CTV), later rebranded as The Spartan Fund, which he served as its Managing Director. The Spartan Fund became a vital pre-seed, evergreen venture fund designed to support early-stage, high-risk technologies from the university. Under Michael’s leadership, the Spartan Fund Catalyst Program, which provided $5,000 in consulting services to startups going through the diligence process was established. His work contributed to the growth and success of CWRU's entrepreneurial ecosystem, with over 80 start-ups launched, 10 of which were acquired and three exited through IPOs, collectively representing an exit value of more than $325 million.

In addition to his venture creation efforts, Michael secured approximately $3.5 million in commercialization grants as Principal Investigator and played an integral role in managing translational research programs, which invested over $2 million annually. His leadership in technology transfer resulted in over $40 million in total revenue for CWRU, including negotiating four of the largest up-front payments in the university’s history.

In 2023, Michael founded TherExel LLC, a technology commercialization consulting firm. This move reflects his ongoing passion for start-up creation and venture development. Throughout his career, Michael has cultivated a vast network of industry connections, including investors, entrepreneurs, and key stakeholders, which he leverages to drive innovation and partnerships. His dedication to translational research and venture creation has made him a highly respected figure in both the academic and business communities.

Michael holds an M.S. in biology from CWRU, an M.B.A. from the University of Phoenix, and a B.S. in Biology and Chemistry from John Carroll University. He is a member of the Licensing Executives Society and the Association of University Technology Managers.