september 2024

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2024 Next Gen All Stars: Top 20 Under 40

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Next Gen All Star: Matt Freedman

Age: 32

Company: General Plumbing Supply

Title: Director of Finance

How long have you been in the PHCP-PVF industry?

Six years.

What drew you into the industry?

I started my career in finance, but the opportunity to work for my family’s business (my great grandfather founded GPS in 1910) was one I couldn’t pass up. I craved the chance to “get under the hood” of a thriving business, as opposed to analyzing a business from the outside.

What is the most rewarding aspect of working in the industry?

Helping people. I get to solve real problems everyday, which is something not everyone can say about their job. I also love the collaborative nature of the work. It’s very team-oriented.

What motivates you every day?

My family - I stand on the shoulders of the ones who came before me. I want to keep my family’s legacy alive and continue what they have started.

What is one thing you wish more people knew/understood about the PHCP-PVF industry?

Every day will bring its own challenges and setbacks but if you persevere and learn from those around you, it is an incredibly rewarding industry.

What has been your proudest moment in your career so far?

Two years ago, we moved our headquarters from Edison to Piscataway, NJ. I helped lead the move, which was a massive undertaking. We were tasked with rebuilding 40 years of infrastructure in less than a year. It was an incredibly challenging time that required all hands-on deck. I learned so much about leadership through the experience, and I am very proud of how the GPS team rallied together to make the move a success.

What is one thing most people don’t know about you?

I ran the Boston Marathon in 2015. It taught me a lot about perseverance and hard work, lessons I still value today.

“Matt has seamlessly taken over all of our financial and many operational responsibilities and spearheaded our 2022 move to a new 300,000 square foot facility. He is a perfect example of what type of leader our industry needs to thrive moving into the future.”

– Justin Freedman, General Plumbing Supply