“Do Something That’s Never Been Done Before Today.”
Daniel L. Mathews is a visionary supply chain and logistics executive with nearly four decades of industry-defining leadership, strategic innovation, and a profound commitment to operational excellence. His motto, “Do something that’s never been done before today,” is not just a phrase—it is a reflection of the trailblazing mindset that has shaped his entire career. From the warehouse floor to the executive boardroom, Dan has consistently challenged conventional boundaries and delivered transformative results across the food, beverage, and consumer goods industries.
Dan’s career began with a solid foundation in industrial engineering, graduating from Rochester Institute of Technology. He soon found his calling in operations and supply chain at Frito-Lay, where he would spend over two decades mastering the complexities of large-scale logistics, distribution, and commercialization. His early roles in plant warehousing and transportation management placed him at the helm of some of Frito-Lay’s largest operational centers. Here, Dan demonstrated his talent for leading high-performing teams and managing expansive logistics networks with precision and cost-efficiency. He led one of the company’s most significant warehouse transitions during a major consolidation, managing over 200 associates and 110 drivers with a rare balance of discipline and empathy.
His role as Mountain Region Operations Manager expanded his leadership reach across nine distribution centers and ten states, where he honed his ability to scale operations and align regional strategies with national performance goals. During this tenure, Dan became a three-time recipient of Frito-Lay’s national service award—an unprecedented achievement—while simultaneously meeting rigorous financial objectives. This period solidified his reputation as a leader who could be counted on to deliver both excellence and innovation under pressure.
Dan’s transition into corporate strategy at PepsiCo marked a turning point in his career, offering him the platform to drive supply chain innovation on a national scale. As Supply Chain Customization Director, he led multimillion-dollar programs to develop and implement tailored logistics solutions for major retail customers. His ability to unite cross-functional teams around a common vision led to the launch of highly successful initiatives like “Designed to Grow,” which generated over $300 million in annual sales. He also pioneered the redesign of display-ready pallets, earning multiple U.S. patents and delivering significant savings to the organization.
Recognizing the importance of developing future talent, Dan designed and led PepsiCo’s college recruiting program for the supply chain function. His efforts created a robust internship and early-career pipeline that yielded high-performing teams with an exceptional 80%+ acceptance rate. In this capacity, Dan wasn’t just building careers—he was shaping the next generation of supply chain leaders. His approach combined mentorship, strategic hiring, and a deep belief in the power of investing in people.
Following his impactful tenure at PepsiCo, Dan took his leadership to Truco Enterprises as Senior Vice President of Supply Chain. There, he led the organization through unprecedented demand surges during the COVID-19 pandemic, doubling capacity and delivering product when others could not. His swift execution, agile planning, and cost containment measures directly contributed to Truco’s acquisition by Utz Foods. This achievement reflected not only his technical acumen but also his ability to generate shareholder value through operational excellence.
Dan’s most recent executive role was as Senior Vice President of Supply Chain at Buff City Soap, a rapidly growing retail brand. As the company’s first supply chain leader, he built the department from the ground up, establishing systems, staff, and supplier networks that enabled expansion from 60 to over 270 locations within two and a half years. Remarkably, there were zero store-opening delays due to supply chain—an accomplishment that speaks to Dan’s meticulous planning and collaborative leadership style. He also implemented a proprietary freight model to ensure end-to-end control of the company’s logistical ecosystem, reducing costs while elevating service standards.
Beyond his executive positions, Dan’s passion for giving back has remained unwavering. He has volunteered as the Supply Chain and Operations Lead for the Food for Good program, delivering over two million meals to children in underserved communities. This initiative earned him PepsiCo’s prestigious Performance With Purpose Award, personally presented by former CEO Indra Nooyi. Additionally, as an Assistant Scoutmaster with the Boy Scouts of America and an Eagle Scout himself, Dan has guided countless youth in leadership, responsibility, and character development.
Dan’s international experience spans Europe, China, Canada, and Mexico, giving him a global perspective that enhances his ability to navigate complex supply chains and cultural nuances. With experience in both startups and turnarounds, he brings a rare blend of tactical execution and visionary strategy. While he is open to travel and diverse verticals, his primary interest lies in the Retail and Food and Beverage sectors—industries in which he has consistently driven measurable growth.
Now seeking opportunities to serve on corporate or advisory boards, Dan is eager to contribute his vast experience, creative problem-solving skills, and leadership wisdom to help organizations grow, innovate, and succeed. His goal is to give back by sharing what he’s learned over nearly four decades in operations and leadership. He believes in the power of collaboration, the importance of resilience, and the value of leading with integrity.
Character:
Dan’s primary objective is to glorify God in all that he does. Dan is defined by his humility, authenticity, and unwavering commitment to doing the right thing—even when it’s the harder path. His leadership is grounded in understanding and respect, earning the loyalty and admiration of teams at every level.
Knowledge:
With 38 years of hands-on experience, Dan possesses a deep well of expertise in supply chain management, logistics, and operational strategy. His career is distinguished by his ability to translate complex systems into scalable, efficient, and profitable operations.
Strategic:
Dan has consistently demonstrated the ability to see the bigger picture while executing tactical solutions that deliver long-term value. Whether navigating a pandemic, scaling a startup, or managing a multi-million-dollar RFP, he brings clarity, foresight, and results.
Communication:
Dan excels in cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder engagement, from warehouse teams to C-suite executives. His ability to build consensus and inspire action makes him a trusted leader and advisor across diverse organizational settings.
