Michael Gessen

Global Trade and Risk Strategist

I solve high-stakes problems in logistics, trade, and finance through discretion, precision, and real-world execution.

Michael Gessen - Global Trade and Risk Strategist
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About

I was born in Israel, raised in Canada, and now operate from the United States with active offices on both sides of the border. My background spans international freight, customs compliance, insurance, and cross-border market strategy. I am the founder of a group of licensed and bonded companies that provide in-house solutions across logistics, risk management, and trade advisory.

Whether you are moving a carton of goods or acquiring a Gulfstream jet, entering a new market, or structuring a complex global transaction, I provide the strategy, infrastructure, and execution to make it happen. My work is built on trust, not volume. I do not chase attention. I focus on results.

What I Do

Logistics Execution

I manage time-sensitive, bonded, and high-value freight across the United States, Canada, and select international lanes. This includes warehousing, in-bond filings, customs clearance, and full regulatory compliance. My execution is built for speed, reliability, and zero tolerance for failure.

Risk and Insurance Structuring

I provide cargo and trade credit insurance that is built into the structure of each deal. This includes all-risk policies for freight and receivables protection for exporters and buyers. Coverage is issued directly through trusted underwriters or API-integrated platforms, with a focus on protecting real exposure, not selling paper.

Trade Advisory and Market Entry

I support international businesses entering the U.S. and Canadian markets with full-stack execution. This includes import logistics, entity structuring, sourcing, and compliance. I also help North American companies expand globally by leveraging trade agreements, bonded flows, and incentive-aligned jurisdictions such as duty-free zones and ports of entry with strategic benefits.

Strategic Deal Structuring and Private Market Involvement

I advise high-net-worth individuals, investors, and operating partners on physical asset transactions, discreet acquisitions, and logistics-backed deal execution. Beyond my public-facing ventures, I am selectively involved in private market initiatives focused on structured finance, global trade flow strategies, and asset-backed transactions.

One such project, operating quietly under the radar, is focused on unlocking liquidity and efficiency in overlooked corners of the real economy. If you are a capital allocator, institutional investor, or strategic partner seeking access to off-market opportunities rooted in operational insight and infrastructure, I welcome private introductions.

Certifications & Credentials

FIATA Diploma in International Freight Forwarding

Internationally recognized certification from the Geneva, Switzerland-based International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations. Covers multimodal transport, air transport, customs procedures, and freight forwarding technologies. Recognized by FIATA members in over 100 countries representing 40,000 logistics firms worldwide.

Customs Broker Professional Status

Licensed by Canada Border Services Agency following successful completion of extensive government examination. Authorized to handle complex customs clearance and compliance matters across North America.

Licensed Commercial Insurance Producer

Licensed to provide comprehensive risk management solutions that blend insurance with global trade strategies. Authorized to structure coverage that protects real exposure across complex international transactions.

Certified in Automotive Law and Ethics (C.A.L.E.)

Achieved 98% on final examination through Georgian College's Automotive Business School of Canada. Joint certification with Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council (OMVIC) demonstrating excellence in automotive industry standards and ethics.

Problems I Solve

  • Businesses entering the U.S. or Canadian markets without infrastructure, compliance, or execution support
  • Buyers acquiring assets, inventory, or entire companies that require secure and insured global movement
  • Exporters struggling to expand internationally due to trade regulations and risk exposure
  • Capital partners looking for a trusted operator to bridge the gap between investment and execution

Who Should Work With Me

  • International businesses seeking to enter or scale within North America
  • North American companies looking to expand into foreign markets efficiently
  • Exporters, producers, and freight operators who need CIF or DDP structuring and insurance
  • Investors, family offices, and private buyers requiring quiet deal execution
  • Serious operators who need clarity, confidence, and control at every step

Contact

For sensitive or confidential discussions, I am always open to signing a non-disclosure agreement. Discretion is not a courtesy in my world. It is a condition of doing business.

Phone / WhatsApp

+1-864-837-3642

LinkedIn

michaelgessen

Twitter / X

@michaelgessen