Born with a knack for leadership and a passion for law, Michael A Watkins has journeyed through a career path that spans over three decades, multiple industries, and numerous roles. This article aims to unfold the diverse career of Watkins, highlighting his achievements in the fields of law, finance, business, and beyond.
Table of Contents
Early Career: The Legal Path
Watkins embarked on his professional journey in 1980, starting as a regulatory lawyer in Washington, D.C. He served with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC), accumulating substantial experience in the legal realm.
Day, Berry & Howard: Specialization in Finance Law
In 1988, Michael Watkins joined the law firm Day, Berry & Howard (now Day Pitney), specializing in broker-dealer, investment adviser, and public finance law. This period of his career marked the beginning of his specialization in the financial sector.
Shawmut Bank: Corporate Finance Counsel
Venturing into the corporate world, Watkins served as the capital markets and corporate finance counsel for Shawmut Bank, a Fortune 500 company (now Bank of America).
First Union and Wachovia: A Leadership Role
In 1999, Watkins moved to First Union as Equity Derivatives Counsel. He quickly climbed the ranks, becoming Deputy General Counsel and head of a 40-person Corporate, Securities and Regulatory Law practice group in 2000. He continued in this role following First Union’s acquisition of and name change to Wachovia, a Fortune 100 company.
During his time at Wachovia, Michael Watkins demonstrated excellent leadership skills, coordinating the company’s reporting obligations under Federal banking and securities laws, and its government affairs activities across the U.S. and in 30 foreign countries.
National Stock Exchange (NSX): General Counsel and Corporate Secretary
In 2006, Watkins joined the National Stock Exchange (NSX) as General Counsel and Corporate Secretary. He played a crucial role in leading the demutualization, restructuring, and sale of NSX to a consortium of Wall Street investment banks.
IMP Trainer/Coach
Beyond his remarkable legal and financial career, Watkins is also a dedicated trainer and coach. As a practitioner of Integrative Mastery Programs (IMP) for eleven years, he specializes in operations management, management and leadership development, and organizational design.
His most famous book as an author is Breakthrough Business Negotiation A Toolbox for Managers. In it, he provides a definitive guide and proven strategies for professionals for negotiating in any business situation.
Michael A Watkins’ Personal Life Vision (PLV)
Watkins’ PLV reflects his belief in the strength of individuals, families, and communities. He envisions a world where courage, strong familial bonds, and the pursuit of individual futures are encouraged and nurtured.
Political Engagement
Watkins has also been actively involved in politics, serving as a Republican Auditor. His dedication to public service and his commitment to his community are evident in his political role.
Academic Achievements
Watkins is an alumnus of prestigious institutions such as Princeton University (Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs) and Columbia University School of Law. His academic background further enhances the depth of his professional accomplishments.
Publications and Research
As an author, Michael A Watkins has contributed to the field of science with numerous publications and research papers, primarily in the field of chemistry. His works have been published in several international journals.
Conclusion
Michael A. Watkins’ career is a testament to his versatility and dedication. From law to finance, from business to coaching, from politics to science, Watkins’ journey is an inspiring tale of a multi-dimensional professional. His exceptional accomplishments in diverse fields reflect his commitment to excellence and his passion for making a difference.
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