The Gray Cat Blog

A comprehensive collection of blogs designed to assist small business owners and multiunit operators.

Founders: Going from Doing to Leading

Mar 16, 2026
 

One of the hardest transitions for a Founder to make is going from a "doer" to a "leader".

In this episode with Dilan Abeya, we discuss this monumental step for Founders to make to become more strategic.

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!