Michael Gats

Seasoned Finance Executive with Extensive Cross-Industry Experience

Professional Overview
Michael Gats is an accomplished finance executive with over 30 years of experience driving strategic growth and operational excellence across a diverse range of industries. Currently serving as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at the DigiPen Institute of Technology, he leverages his robust financial acumen and business leadership expertise to support the institute's mission and drive sustainable organizational development.

Experience Summary

Current Role
As the CFO of DigiPen Institute of Technology since 2019, Michael is responsible for overseeing the institute's financial operations, planning, and strategic decision-making. He plays a crucial role in aligning the institute's financial strategy with its long-term objectives, ensuring prudent resource allocation and financial stability.

Career Progression
Prior to his current role, Michael held several senior finance positions, including CFO at Ricardo Beverly Hills, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer at butter LONDON, Vice President of Finance at Mike's Hard Lemonade, and CFO at OM Holdings, Ltd., Cutter & Buck, and M-K-D Distributors (Dreyer's Grand Ice Cream Northwest). His diverse experience spans the consumer goods, apparel, and beverage industries, where he has consistently driven financial optimization, process improvements, and strategic growth initiatives.

Earlier in his career, Michael served as a Finance Manager at Generra Sportswear Co Inc and held a Senior Manager position at KPMG, where he gained valuable experience in public accounting and financial consulting.

Academic Background
Michael holds a Bachelor's degree in Accounting from a reputable university, demonstrating his strong academic foundation in finance and accounting principles.

Areas of Expertise

• Financial planning, analysis, and reporting

• Cost optimization and operational efficiency

• Treasury management and cash flow optimization

• Mergers, acquisitions, and integration

• Strategic business partnering and stakeholder management

• Change management and process improvement

Professional Impact
Throughout his career, Michael has consistently delivered tangible financial and operational improvements for the organizations he has served. Some key achievements include:

• Driving a 25% increase in profitability at Ricardo Beverly Hills through strategic cost-saving initiatives and process streamlining

• Spearheading the successful acquisition and integration of butter LONDON, resulting in a 35% revenue growth

• Implementing innovative financial systems and controls at Mike's Hard Lemonade, enhancing reporting accuracy and decision-making

• Leading the turnaround of OM Holdings, Ltd., restoring profitability and positioning the company for sustained growth

Conclusion
With his extensive finance expertise, strong business acumen, and proven track record of driving organizational transformation, Michael Gats is a respected finance leader poised to continue making a meaningful impact in his role at the DigiPen Institute of Technology and beyond.