Cheryl Merchant

Manufacturer Hope Global of Cumberland has seen revenue grow significantly under the leadership of Cheryl Merchant. But as president and CEO of the 133-year-old company, Merchant doesn’t only provide solid management decisions and keep an eye on the bottom line. She also has a personal dedication to mentoring to help develop the next generation of leaders.

The company, which employs more than 650 people, is no stranger to awards and recognition. PBN named the textile maker – which also manufactures parts for the automotive, aerospace and apparel markets – a Fastest-Growing Company in 2013 after its revenue climbed to $62 million in 2012 from $48 million in 2010.

Under Merchant’s leadership Hope Global has made significant capital investments. But it is the investment in people that Merchant holds dear.

In 2015, Merchant spoke to PBN about what mentorship means to her, and challenged other executives to mentor others. “I want people at Hope Global to be excited and willing to learn,” she said, but has also mentored women at other companies, such as Alex and Ani. She spoke of how rewarding it is to guide others early in their careers, just as she was mentored.

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A PBN Business Women Achievement Honoree in 2008, Merchant won PBN’s Leadership & Strategy category in its Manufacturing Awards in 2014. She was selected by the Bryant University Women’s Summit as the 2014 New England Businesswoman of the Year. Last year, Merchant was named Outstanding Mentor by PBN at its Business Women Awards event. •

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