Interim Executive Management
Deluxe & Safeguard
Gray Cat Manages Company Divisions on an Interim Basis
Over the course of past seven years and counting, Gray Cat was contracted to become the interim Executive Manager for seven (7) divisions of Deluxe/Safeguard company-operated markets. Revenues from these markets were nearly $50 million and spanned the entire United States. Gray Cat’s role was to transform the business in preparation to either be sold to a distributor or transitioned to an employee-based general manager.
An overall Strategic Business and Assessment Plan was developed on behalf of each division. The Plan included:
- The development of internal routines that enhance collaborative communication
- A thorough review of the P & L with recommended enhancements to profitability
- Creation of a sales forecasting tool
- Development and management on ongoing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- A detailed action plan to drive sales and margin
- Revamping an inefficient system of processes
- Development of financial metrics to include a daily sales flash, revamped P & L statements,
and financial Proforma’s
In the end, results matter. What initially started as a one-market, six-month project expanded into a 7-division, 7-year+ series of contract renewals. Improvements were across the board in revenues, expense reductions and bottom-line profits. In one case, Gray Cat turned a net loss division into a 7-figure profitable entity.
Jennifer Mitchell
Former VP & General Manager, Deluxe Corporation
“John Matthews is a seasoned leader with a diverse business background enabling him to bring value add to every business that we asked him to lead. As a consultant for Deluxe Corporation, he focused efforts on customers, financial results, and process improvement. He drove meaningful gains in every aspect of the business. He lifted morale and drove collaboration across the team while ensuring key talent remained within the organization. I would strongly recommend him to support any business in need of performance improvement.”
John Matthews, President & CEO, Gray Cat Enterprises, Inc.
John Matthews is the Founder and President of Gray Cat Enterprises, Inc. a Raleigh, NC-based management consulting company. Gray Cat specializes in strategic project management and consulting for multi-unit operations; interim executive management; and strategic planning. Mr. Matthews has over 30 years of senior-level executive experience in the retail industry, involving three dynamic multi-unit companies. Mr. Matthews experience includes President of Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwiches; Vice President of Marketing, Merchandising, Corporate Communications, Facilities and Real Estate for Clark Retail Enterprises/White Hen Pantry; and National Marketing Director at Little Caesar's Pizza! Pizza!
