Michael J. Pokora (Lssbb)
About Michael J. Pokora (Lssbb)
Michael J. Pokora serves as the Senior Director of Research and Development at ACV Auctions, where he focuses on scaling technological advancements for widespread use. He holds a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification and has a background in engineering and process improvement, with previous roles at CarMax and Carvana.
Work at ACV Auctions
Michael J. Pokora currently serves as the Senior Director of Research and Development at ACV Auctions, a position he has held since 2021. In this role, he plays a crucial part in scaling technological breakthroughs for mass adoption and implementation. Prior to this position, he worked as the Director of Special Projects at ACV Auctions from 2018 to 2021. His responsibilities include providing strategic vision and investment guidance on technologies critical for gaining competitive advantages.
Previous Experience at CarMax and Carvana
Before joining ACV Auctions, Michael Pokora worked at CarMax as a Senior Process Engineer from 2010 to 2016 in the Richmond, Virginia Area. He then transitioned to Carvana, where he served as a Principal Engineer for one year in 2016 to 2017, working remotely from the Phoenix, Arizona Area headquarters. His experience in these roles contributed to his expertise in process improvement and quality management.
Education and Expertise
Michael Pokora earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial & Systems Engineering from Binghamton University, completing his studies from 2004 to 2008. He holds a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (LSSBB) certification, which signifies his proficiency in process improvement methodologies and quality management practices. This educational background supports his current role in driving innovation and developing value-driven programs and technologies.
Background and Early Career
Michael Pokora began his career at Ashland Inc., where he worked as an Account Representative from 2008 to 2010. This early experience laid the foundation for his later roles in engineering and process improvement. His professional journey includes significant contributions to various organizations, focusing on fostering creative interactions and driving innovation across business sectors.
Achievements in Research and Development
In his role as Senior Director of Research and Development at ACV Auctions, Michael Pokora acts as a catalyst for innovation within the company. He is focused on developing programs and technologies that unlock value over a forecasted lifecycle. His strategic vision and investment guidance are essential for the company's efforts to maintain a competitive edge in the market.