Matthew Rubel

Brainstormer, Business adviser, Business leader, Foodie, Idea generator, Jewish, Marketer, Parent, Policy maker, World traveler

Matthew (Matt) E. Rubel is an American entrepreneur and investor defined by a career of building brands, empowering teams, and fostering community growth. With a passion for collaborative leadership, Matt has spent decades partnering with management teams and investors to transform global retail and consumer businesses. A winner of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year award, Matt has a proven track record in guiding diverse companies toward sustainable growth. He currently serves as the Chairman of Holley Performance Brands (NYSE: HLLY) and chairs varied companies across the Healthcare Services, Beauty, and Footwear sectors. His leadership style is rooted in collegiality and partnership; he has successfully advised and collaborated with top-tier investment firms—including MidOcean Partners, TPG Capital, TPG Growth, and Roark Capital—to drive value in middle-market and large-cap ventures. Previously, Matt led major organizations as President and CEO of Varsity Brands and as Chairman, CEO, and President of Collective Brands, Inc., the parent company of iconic labels such as Payless ShoeSource, Sperry Top-Sider, Saucony, Keds, Stride Rite, and Airwalk. His career is highlighted by his dedication to building world-class brands, having played pivotal roles at Tommy Hilfiger, Cole Haan, J.Crew, and Revlon. Beyond his executive roles, Matt is a committed steward of corporate governance. He has served on the boards of The Hudson’s Bay Company (parent of Saks Fifth Avenue), HSNi, TreeHouse Foods, Supervalu, e.l.f. Cosmetics, Lucchese, and A.T. Cross. Community & Civic Engagement Matt believes that true success is shared with the community. He is deeply involved in public service, having served as a Presidential appointee to the White House Advisory Committee for Trade Policy. Locally, he channels his passion for education and youth empowerment into active board service for the Fresh Air Fund and the Cox Science Center and Aquarium in Palm Beach County. Personal Passions Matt’s interests extend to the sustainable preservation of heritage and nature. He is a co-owner of Winter Hill Farm in Freeport, Maine, a venture dedicated to the craft of community farming and the preservation of the rare Randall Cattle breed. He continues to actively invest in and mentor emerging brands and trend-related consumer platforms, always looking for the next opportunity to innovate together.

My family, Maine, innovation and learning and building a better community for all

Inspiring connectivity and open to learn about others perspectives

Branding, International Business, Markenting, public speaking, Retail / Wholesale, supply chain, Talent aquisition, Team Building, Turn arounds

Ping Pong and docking a boat!