Empire Cat Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Empire Cat has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, and financial oversight.

Driven by a legacy of service, Empire Cat upholds a commitment to providing essential heavy equipment solutions and expert support to contractors across its operational regions.

Leadership Roles at Empire Cat

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Jeffrey Whiteman
  • Chief Financial Officer - Richard Pallao
  • Vice President and Amp. Amp. Chief Financial Officer - John Helms
  • Chief Operating Officer - Patsy Cummings
  • Jeffrey Whiteman - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Jeffrey Whiteman, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Empire Cat, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the family-owned Caterpillar dealership. Whiteman guides the company's mission to sell, rent, and service heavy equipment, tractors, and power generation equipment, ensuring alignment with the needs of contractors. Overseeing all facets of the business, the President & Chief Executive Officer drives growth initiatives and maintains the company's strong market presence. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of customer-centricity and operational excellence. By championing innovation in equipment solutions and service delivery, Jeffrey Whiteman ensures Empire Cat remains a trusted partner for its clientele, solidifying its position as a premier Caterpillar dealer.

    Richard Pallao - Chief Financial Officer

    Richard Pallao, the Chief Financial Officer at Empire Cat, manages the company's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Pallao oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, ensuring robust fiscal discipline across the organization. The Chief Financial Officer plays a critical part in analyzing market trends and economic conditions to inform investment strategies and optimize resource allocation for the heavy equipment dealership. By maintaining strong relationships with financial institutions and stakeholders, Richard Pallao secures the capital necessary for expansion and operational enhancements. This executive ensures the financial stability required to support Empire Cat's ongoing commitment to selling, renting, and servicing Caterpillar equipment for contractors.

    John Helms - Vice President and Amp. Amp. Chief Financial Officer

    John Helms, the Vice President and Amp. Amp. Chief Financial Officer at Empire Cat, supports the financial strategy and oversight of the company's extensive operations. Helms collaborates on financial planning and analysis, contributing to the fiscal integrity of the Caterpillar dealership. The Vice President and Amp. Amp. Chief Financial Officer assists in managing financial risks and identifying opportunities for cost optimization within the heavy equipment sales, rental, and service divisions. By ensuring adherence to financial regulations and internal controls, John Helms reinforces the company's commitment to sound financial management. This role is crucial in supporting the long-term sustainability and growth objectives of Empire Cat, particularly in its service to contractors requiring specialized machinery.

    Patsy Cummings - Chief Operating Officer

    Patsy Cummings, the Chief Operating Officer at Empire Cat, directs the day-to-day operational activities essential for the company's success in the heavy equipment sector. Cummings oversees the seamless integration of sales, rental, and service departments, ensuring efficient delivery of Caterpillar machinery and power generation equipment to contractors. The Chief Operating Officer focuses on optimizing operational workflows, enhancing service quality, and managing the logistics of equipment distribution across its service regions. By implementing best practices in fleet management and customer support, Patsy Cummings drives operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. This leadership ensures that Empire Cat consistently meets the demanding needs of its clientele, reinforcing its reputation for reliability and expert service in the industry.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Empire Cat Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Empire Cat?
    Empire Cat is led by Jeffrey Whiteman (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Richard Pallao (Chief Financial Officer) and John Helms (Vice President and Amp. Amp. Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Empire Cat’s executive team?
    The executive team of Empire Cat includes leaders such as Jeffrey Whiteman (President & Chief Executive Officer), Richard Pallao (Chief Financial Officer), John Helms (Vice President and Amp. Amp. Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Empire Cat have?
    Empire Cat has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Empire Cat’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Empire Cat includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Vice President and Amp. Amp. Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer.