Matthew Cook

About Matthew Cook

I’m a connector, builder, and servant‑leader who thrives at the intersection of payments, fintech, SaaS, hospitality, and real‑world operations. Today, as a District Manager with Global Payments, a Fortune 500 leader in commerce technology, I coach high‑performing teams and partner with business owners to streamline operations, reduce risk, and unlock meaningful, measurable growth. I’m passionate about elevating the customer experience through modern payments and online technology—ask me about our solutions and I’ll happily dive in.Before stepping into fintech, I spent years as a high‑end chef in some of the most respected kitchens in New York and Miami—Mr. Pickwicks, Salumeria Rosi, The Fat Radish, Sonnier & Castle, the SoHo Grand, and the Fontainebleau. The intensity, precision, and hospitality‑first mindset of that world shaped how I lead today: with humility, discipline, and a deep respect for the people doing the work.I transitioned into payments with SpotOn, quickly rising through the ranks by building teams, developing talent, and creating cultures where people feel supported, challenged, and proud of what they do. I believe leadership is service—my job is to remove obstacles, amplify strengths, and help people win.Outside of work, I’m a dad first. My son Caiden and I are usually building Legos, crushing Mario games, or hunting down rare Pokémon on our weekend adventures. When I’m not with him or my teams, you’ll find me building something, trying to make friends with the neighborhood squirrels, or on one of my infamous 5-10 mile walks to nowhere.At my core, I’m driven by one mission:WIN. Win for my company. Win for my team. Win for my family.Win by helping people and businesses grow—professionally, personally, and financially—while delivering solutions that make businesses stronger and more profitable.If you’re building something meaningful, scaling a team, or looking for a partner who leads with integrity and action, I’d love to connect.

Experience

1. District Manager

   Global Payments Inc.

   Nov 2025 — Present · CT, US

Education

• Johnson State College

  Associate's degree

  2007 — 2009

Skills

• Culinary Management
• Menu Development
• Sanitation
• Restaurant Management
• Cuisine
• Servsafe
• Menu Costing
• Food Preparation
• Event Planning
• Fine Dining
• Hospitality
• Menu Engineering
• Chef
• Recipes
• Culinary Skills
• Food Safety
• Food & Beverage
• Gourmet
• Customer Service
• Catering
• Restaurants
• Food
• Cooking
• Hospitality Industry
• Food Quality
• New Restaurant Openings
• Hotels
• Event Management
• Hospitality Management
• Pre-Opening
• Food
• Pastry
• Banquets