Creating Opportunities for Women Leaders in Franchising

Having been a part of the child care industry for the past decade, Brenda Febbo is no stranger to working alongside other female leaders. However, Lightbridge Academy*’s chief marketing officer acknowledges that child care involves more women than other segments within the franchising industry, especially on the executive level.

Febbo first joined Lightbridge Academy in 2006 as its VP of sales and marketing before opening a location in New Jersey as a local owner. She was with the brand when it made the decision to start franchising—in order to fuel its expansion efforts, Lightbridge Academy realized that partnering with local owners was the best possible way to grow while maintaining its unique company culture. That culture, which includes its Circle of Care philosophy, has always stood out to Febbo as what makes the brand unique. And as franchise concepts continue adding more women to their executive teams, Febbo says that Lightbridge Academy’s commitment to creating opportunities for all leaders is still making a difference.

“I give a lot of credit to our founder and CEO, Guy Falzarano. He makes an active effort to ensure that equality is evident across Lightbridge Academy’s entire system,” said Febbo. “Historically, franchising has been a male dominated industry. But more and more women are taking on leadership roles, and it has been inspiring to see them present at conventions like IFA. Women leaders have so much to offer this industry—beyond unit economics, success in franchising comes down to relationships with people. And women can be very effective in that role.”

The addition of more women leaders in franchising extends beyond Lightbridge Academy. There’s a noticeable difference among both brands and industry professionals, which Febbo says stems from women in executive positions taking mentees under their wing.

“In order to continue seeing women move up the ranks in franchising, it’s important for those in higher up positions to bring others along with them on their journey. That’s something that even goes beyond gender—by bringing someone else up with you and showing them how you’ve been able to succeed, mentors have the ability to create a path for the next generation of executives,” Febbo said.

As women leaders continue to guide others through their journeys up the corporate ladder, there’s no doubt that the franchising industry will become even more diverse. And with those changes already taking place on a daily basis, the industry is positioned to continue moving in a positive direction.

“I’m not naïve enough to say that I don’t see gaps in pay and some other areas of the workplace. But I think that if you believe that the opportunity is there for you and you have a clear vision for yourself, others will see it as well. That’s how women will continue being successful in franchising and beyond,” said Febbo. “Throughout my career, I’ve always had a seat at the table. And I never once thought that I didn’t belong there—it comes down to being confident in your abilities and backing that confidence up with your actions.”