Matt Whitley is an entrepreneur, operator, and advisor with a diverse background spanning hospitality, real estate development, and community leadership. He is the co-founder of Happy + Hale, a Raleigh-based hospitality brand known for its focus on health-conscious dining and strong community presence.
In addition to his work in the restaurant industry, Matt is an active real estate investor, specializing in fix-and-flip projects and small-scale development. His hands-on experience in building, scaling, and optimizing businesses gives him a practical, operator-first perspective on growth, value creation, and strategic transitions.
Matt also plays a leadership role in Journeymen Triangle, a nonprofit organization dedicated to mentoring teenage boys, with a focus on cultivating healthy masculinity, emotional intelligence, and personal responsibility. This work reflects his broader commitment to developing people alongside businesses.
As an advisor in mergers and acquisitions, Matt brings a unique blend of entrepreneurial insight, operational expertise, and human-centered leadership. He is particularly passionate about helping founders navigate transitions, unlock value, and align business decisions with long-term vision and impact.
