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Matt Hagel
CFO at Petfolk
Professional Background
Matt Hagel is a seasoned financial and operational leader with a remarkable track record of guiding disruptive companies toward scaling success. With extensive experience in various managerial roles, he has honed his skills in financial management, strategic planning, and IPO readiness, making him an invaluable asset in today's dynamic business landscape. His expertise also extends to capital raising, corporate governance, tax planning, supply chain management, and people management.
Currently serving as the Senior Vice President of Finance at Freshly, Matt plays a pivotal role in overseeing the financial health of the organization. His keen insight into operational efficiencies and financial strategies empowers Freshly to thrive in the competitive food industry. Matt's leadership and forward-thinking approach have proven essential in helping the company navigate both opportunities and challenges.
Education and Achievements
Matt's academic journey laid a solid foundation for his successful career in finance and business leadership. He earned his Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Accounting from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign's prestigious College of Business. This rigorous program equipped him with the technical skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the fast-paced world of finance.
Further enhancing his qualifications, Matt pursued a Master of Science in Integrated Marketing at New York University. This advanced degree allowed him to combine financial acumen with strategic marketing insights, setting him apart in the industry. His education has been instrumental in providing a well-rounded perspective on business operations, thereby enabling him to contribute effectively to organizational growth and sustainability.
In addition to his academic prowess, Matt has amassed a wealth of practical experience throughout his career. He served on the Advisory Board of FANCHEST, where he offered valuable guidance on financial matters that supported the company's strategic goals.
Career Journey
Matt's career began at Deloitte & Touche, where he worked as an Audit Intern and later as an Audit Senior, gaining critical experience in financial reporting and audit compliance. His time at Deloitte equipped him with a strong foundation in the principles of accounting and financial analysis, which he would later apply in various roles across different organizations.
Following his tenure at Deloitte, Matt transitioned to Sony Music Entertainment as a Senior Accountant, where he handled complex accounting tasks and contributed to various financial reporting initiatives. This role provided him with valuable industry experience in the entertainment sector, further diversifying his skill set.
Matt’s next career move took him to AppNexus, where he served as the Manager of Accounting & Financial Reporting. In this role, he led a team responsible for ensuring the accuracy and compliance of financial statements, while also enhancing reporting processes to support better decision-making.
He then took on the role of Controller at LearnVest, Inc., where he played a significant part in financial planning and analysis initiatives. His leadership in this role was crucial in supporting the company's long-term objectives, particularly as LearnVest adjusted its strategies in a rapidly changing market.
Before joining Freshly, Matt held the position of Head of Finance / Controller at Bark & Co., where he effectively managed financial operations and strategy, leading to increased operational efficiency and stronger financial performance.
Notable Achievements
Throughout his career, Matt has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence and innovation. His contributions have been recognized across various organizations, where he has successfully implemented financial controls and enhanced governance structures that align with industry best practices.
His strategic mindset and operational expertise have empowered companies to successfully prepare for IPO readiness, helping them navigate the complexities involved in going public. Moreover, his proficiency in capital raising has been instrumental in securing funding and resources that enable growth and expansion.
With a strong background in tax planning and supply chain management, Matt continues to advocate for efficient fiscal strategies that yield meaningful results. His people management skills also shine through, as he is known for building strong teams that drive performance and foster a positive workplace culture.
Matt Hagel is not only a leader in finance but also a visionary who understands the interplay between financial strategy and operational capabilities. His journey through acclaimed educational institutions and reputable organizations underscores his dedication to his profession and his passion for helping companies achieve their business objectives.
