Matthew “Matt” J. Gillin, 1989
B.A., Denison University
Executive Chairman of the Board
Relay Network
Haverford, Pa.
Matthew Gillin is a serial entrepreneur, fintech pioneer, and mobile technology visionary who has turned innovative ideas into successful businesses for more than three decades.
Currently, Matt serves as executive chairman of Relay Network, which he co-founded and led as CEO for 12 years. At Relay, he invented the “Customer Feed” — a groundbreaking mobile communication model that reimagined how businesses connect with their customers in real time. Today, Relay’s platform is utilized by more than 120 blue-chip enterprises and 70 million consumers.
Previously, Matt co-founded Ecount, where he launched the first peer-to-peer payment platform and the first virtual payment card. As CEO, he scaled the company into a global leader in corporate prepaid solutions, culminating in its acquisition by Citi in 2007. At Citi, he led the rollout of a global prepaid platform that issued more than 40 million cards per year for 2,000+ clients in 40 countries.
Matt holds multiple U.S. patents for innovations in digital payments and is an award-winning executive. He is a rare two-time winner of the prestigious Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year award and has been named the Eastern Technology Council CEO of the Year.
While a student at Denison, Matt majored in history and was captain of the varsity lacrosse team, earning First Team All-NCAC honors. A member of Alpha Tau Omega, he remains closely connected to Denison through support of the Red Frame Lab and by funding internships for students with financial need.
Beyond his business achievements, Matt is committed to youth development and community impact. He serves as a volunteer, mentor, and advisor. He is also a board member emeritus of SpeakUp!, a nonprofit that empowers young people to navigate life’s challenges through open, honest conversations with adults.