
Executive Communication &
Pitch Strategy


Executive communication moments when there's no second chance
Helping founders and leaders navigate critical moments when failure is costly.

Michael Rickwood
A former Ideas on Stage Alumni and entrepreneur, Michael Rickwood is a Paris-based communications advisor and trainer with global experience and a passion for innovation, strategy, stage craft and storytelling. Helping leaders communicate with clarity, confidence, and presence.
Michael's international experience, cultural richness, creativity and deep insight on modern business and its uncertain landscape make him a unique collaborator.
His Story
Michael Rickwood began his career as a professional actor after graduating from Drama Centre London in 2001. A decade on stage honed not only his performance skills but also a deep understanding of presence, storytelling, and audience connection — skills he later brought into the world of business communication.
In 2013, he joined renowned consulting firm Ideas on Stage, where he spent over a decade working across four continents as a coach, trainer, and facilitator. From tech start-ups in Paris to development leaders at the World Bank in Washington D.C., Michael has helped hundreds of professionals craft compelling messages, lead with authenticity, and communicate under pressure. His experience spans a wide range of sectors, including energy, luxury, aviation, finance, consulting, and the public sector.
At the end of 2024, Michael founded Vortolo, his own boutique consultancy, which he has been building meticoulously to offer a more personal and flexible approach to leadership communication. Alongside his coaching and facilitation work, he maintains a strong interest in emerging technologies. He recently earned a diploma from Alyra School of AI and Blockchain and is exploring how these innovations will shape the future of storytelling, influence, and trust in business.
Michael is based in Paris and works fluently in both English and French.
Background and perspective
International, multi-sector experience
-15+ years coaching executives across luxury, finance, tech, pharma, and public sectors.
-Worked with clients like the World Bank (Washington D.C.), Chanel, Colombus Consulting and Paris-based tech start-ups such as the founders of Back Market, PrestaShop and Qwant.
Performing arts & stage expertise
-Former professional actor with deep understanding of stage presence, storytelling, and audience engagement.
-Ability to translate theatrical techniques into executive communication skills.
Bilingual & multicultural
-Fluent English & French.
-Comfortable coaching in both languages, appealing to multinational organizations in Paris.
A.I. Web3 / blockchain experience
-2 years consulting experience in blockchain/web3. Currently developing AI skills and strategies.
-Well-positioned to advise tech-forward, innovation-driven leaders and start-ups.
Boutique, personalized approach with Vortolo
-Selective, hands-on work with leaders facing moments of real exposure.




