Marketing has become one of the most critical drivers of franchise growth. As customer behavior evolves and competition intensifies, brands are turning to the people behind the messaging to create strategies that don’t just look good on paper — they work in the field. For franchise systems, that means supporting owners in dozens or hundreds of different markets, each with its own challenges and opportunities.
The marketing leaders featured on this year’s list are deeply involved in the day-to-day work of growing their systems. Their efforts are driving real results — from generating qualified leads to strengthening local engagement and giving franchisees the support they need to thrive. They’re focused on clarity over complexity, results over noise and relevance over flash. That focus is helping their systems navigate an uncertain economy while continuing to expand.
These leaders come from a range of backgrounds. Some built careers in national advertising. Others entered franchising through operations or strategy. Many have worn multiple hats across departments. Regardless of where they started, they’ve all earned the trust of their franchisees by building marketing programs that reflect the realities of running a local business.
Their work isn’t about chasing the next big idea. It’s about building sustainable systems, listening to what franchisees need and responding with solutions that make sense — tools that are easy to use, messaging that connects with customers and strategies that align with day-to-day operations. In short, they’re the ones turning brand vision into something actionable at the local level.
The marketers on this list represent a wide cross-section of industries, from home services and food and beverage to health, wellness and education. Their playbooks may look different, but their priorities are aligned: Create value, support franchisees and keep the brand moving forward.
Without further ado, here is the full list of the 25 franchise marketing leaders making the biggest impact in 2025. Stay tuned as we share individual profiles on each of them throughout June and July.
Name: Darshan Gad
Role: Chief Marketing Officer
Brand: KidStrong
Brand Website: https://www.kidstrong.com/
With a background rooted in growth strategy and a passion for empowering entrepreneurs, Darshan Gad brings sharp focus and bold creativity to his role as chief marketing officer at KidStrong. As the brand continues its rapid expansion across the country, Gad is leading the charge to drive ambitious marketing growth while helping franchisees build stronger, more resilient businesses.
By tapping into data and customer insights, maintaining a fanatical focus on ROI, and prioritizing transparency and rapid iteration, Gad is helping KidStrong deliver hyper-targeted, personalized experiences that fuel unit-level success and systemwide impact, all while staying true to the brand’s mission of helping kids build confidence, strength and character from an early age.
Name: Lynlea Rudell
Role: Director of Marketing
Brand: Pool Scouts
Brand Website: https://poolscouts.com/
Lynlea Rudell’s journey into franchise marketing has been shaped by a passion for both marketing strategy and the pool care industry. As the director of marketing for Pool Scouts, she leverages her extensive experience in advertising and her love for swimming to drive both brand growth and franchisee success. With a strong focus on hyper-local marketing, customer engagement and innovative strategies, Rudell has helped Pool Scouts become a trusted name in pool care while fostering a culture of community involvement and franchisee empowerment.
Name: Farrell Timlake
Role: Franchise Marketing Director
Brand: White Rabbit Cannabis
Brand Website: https://www.whiterabbitcannabis.com/
Franchise marketing in the cannabis space is uniquely complex, and for Farrell Timlake, it’s exactly that challenge that makes the work so rewarding. As the franchise marketing director at White Rabbit Cannabis, Timlake thrives on staying sharp in an industry where yesterday’s strategies may not work tomorrow. With strict legal limitations and rapidly shifting market dynamics, he emphasizes the importance of adaptability and creative problem-solving. For Timlake, cannabis franchising isn’t just a business opportunity — it’s a chance to introduce people to a fun, high-impact industry that blends wellness, entrepreneurship and social good.
Timlake sees tremendous potential in targeting baby boomers who are searching for a profitable, recession-resistant business that aligns with values of compassion and positivity. He’s also keeping a close eye on legacy markets, where acquiring turnkey cannabis operations could allow prospective franchisees to scale quickly under the White Rabbit system. While current regulations limit traditional marketing and financing channels, Timlake predicts that changes at the federal level will eventually level the playing field, allowing cannabis franchises to compete more directly with mainstream industries. Until then, his focus remains on helping franchisees boost unit-level economics by targeting the right local demographics, maintaining quality and staying compliant — all without relying on unsustainable discounts or gimmicks.
Name: Kate Doyle-Kwon
Role: Vice President of Communications and Franchise Marketing
Brand: Xponential
Brand Website: https://www.xponential.com/
At Xponential Fitness, franchise marketing is driven by a blend of creativity, data and strategic storytelling — and Vice President of Communications and Franchise Marketing Kate Doyle-Kwon is at the center of it all. She describes her role as a balance between executing campaigns and analyzing their performance, always looking for ways to improve. A key part of her approach is leveraging the success stories of Xponential’s franchisees to engage potential leads and strengthen the connection between brand marketing and the franchise sales process.
Doyle-Kwon believes that showcasing real franchisee experiences — especially those who trust the process, use the available resources, and prioritize growth and team development — is one of the most impactful things marketers can do to support unit-level economics. She also sees major opportunity in highlighting the positive impact new locations have on their communities, especially as Xponential continues to differentiate itself in an increasingly competitive market. Looking ahead, she notes the growing role of AI in streamlining ad creation, media management and lead handling — a shift she’s embracing to drive even greater efficiency and performance across the brand’s marketing efforts.
Name: Ana Malmqvist
Role: Chief Marketing Officer
Brand: Melting Pot
Brand Website: https://www.meltingpot.com
With a career spanning consumer goods, beauty, and hospitality, Ana Malmqvist brings a powerful blend of strategic thinking and customer-centric creativity to her role as chief marketing officer at Melting Pot. After years at iconic brands like L’Oréal, P&G and Bloomin’ Brands, Malmqvist now leads the charge at Melting Pot as the brand celebrates its 50th anniversary — and ushers in a new era of relevance for the next generation of guests.
From navigating the challenges of local and national marketing to leveraging AI and guest data for smarter personalization, Malmqvist is helping franchisees succeed by providing tools, strategies and support tailored to their unique markets — all while keeping “the perfect night out” at the heart of the brand.
Name: Michael DeTrana
Role: Vice President of Marketing
Brand: Take 5 Oil Change (Driven Brands)
Brand Website: https://www.take5.com/
Michael DeTrana's journey to franchise marketing leadership is rooted in analytics, retail strategy and a deep respect for local market knowledge. As vice president of marketing at Take 5 Oil Change, a Driven Brands company with over 1,100 service centers, DeTrana oversees brand, field and revenue marketing efforts that bridge corporate strategy with franchisee success.
His approach to franchise marketing is rooted in partnership. “Franchisees know their markets better than we ever will at corporate,” DeTrana said. “With the right level of input from both sides, we execute truly great local marketing plans that connect to our overarching brand strategy.”
With over a decade of experience across consumer goods, retail and automotive services, DeTrana’s marketing playbook avoids short-termism. He warns against what he calls the “death spiral of promotions,” urging brands instead to focus on building long-term brand salience.
Name: Carol DeNembo
Role: Chief Marketing Officer
Brand: Mountain Mike’s Pizza
Brand Website: https://www.mountainmikespizza.com/
Since joining Mountain Mike’s Pizza in 2018 as vice president of marketing, Carol DeNembro has helped propel the California-born brand into a new era of growth and national recognition. Now as Chief Marketing Officer, she leads all consumer and franchise development marketing efforts — balancing innovative strategies with a brand voice rooted in family, community and authenticity.
From high-profile sports partnerships with teams like the San Francisco 49ers, Los Angeles Angels and Sacramento Kings, to loyalty-trigger campaigns and crave-worthy LTOs like Heart-Shaped Pizzas and Cinnamon Not-Knots, DeNembo’s campaigns resonate deeply — not just with customers, but with franchisees whose success depends on real results
Name: Brian Curin
Role: Chief Executive Officer/Chief Marketing Officer
Brand: Little Kitchen Academy
Brand Website: https://littlekitchenacademy.com/
At the intersection of global mission and local relevance, Brian Curin has found his marketing sweet spot. As CEO and CMO of Little Kitchen Academy, Curin is passionate about telling stories that matter — stories that capture the transformational impact the brand has on children and families around the world. For him, franchise marketing is more than a strategy; it’s a platform to empower local business owners while staying deeply aligned with the brand’s purpose.
“What I love most is the ability to tell a meaningful story that resonates across diverse communities while staying true to a brand’s purpose and core values,” Curin said.
His approach to marketing centers on two key outcomes: attracting the right customers and building lasting trust. Whether through digital campaigns, local partnerships or immersive community events, he believes every marketing initiative should support franchise owners in driving results. And when that work is aligned with operational excellence, it becomes a real engine for profitability.
“Our biggest opportunity lies in storytelling — sharing the transformational impact Little Kitchen Academy has on children and families,” Curin said. “As we grow, amplifying authentic stories from our students, parents, instructors and franchise owners will be key to deepening emotional connection and driving awareness.”
Looking to 2025, Curin sees personalization, AI, community building and digital-physical integration as the defining trends. But his boldest prediction pushes beyond tactics. “I believe we’ll see a shift from influencer marketing to ‘impact marketing,’” he said. “Authenticity and purpose will become the new currency.”
Name: Kelsey McManemin
Role: Vice President of Marketing
Brand: HTeaO
Brand Website: https://hteao.com/
With more than a decade of marketing experience at powerhouse restaurant brands like Raising Cane’s, Salata, Fuzzy’s Taco Shop and CiCi’s Pizza, Kelsey McManemin now leads the charge at HTeaO, one of the fastest-growing beverage franchises in the country. As vice president of marketing, she’s spearheading national and local marketing initiatives designed to solidify HTeaO’s position as a household name — while supporting franchisees in creating meaningful connections with their communities.
Recognized by QSR Magazine as a “Young Restaurant Leader to Watch,” McManemin combines strategic thinking with hands-on operational knowledge. Her focus is squarely on driving unit-level profitability, building brand awareness, and positioning HTeaO at the forefront of beverage innovation.
Name: Colin Berry
Role: Vice President of Brand Development
Brand: Children’s Lighthouse Early Learning Schools
Brand Website: https://childrenslighthouse.com/
With almost six years at Children’s Lighthouse and a career spanning leadership roles at iconic restaurant brands like TGI Fridays, Mr. Gatti’s Pizza and MOOYAH, Colin Berry is no stranger to the fast-paced, people-driven world of franchise marketing. Now as vice president of brand development for Children’s Lighthouse, Berry is helping shape a marketing strategy that balances system-wide consistency with local market nuance — all while helping franchisees build sustainable, high-performing businesses.
“What I love most about franchise marketing is watching a plan come to life that has both an immediate impact on traffic and a long-term impact on the bottom line,” said Berry. “You find common ground with a lot of small business owners, especially in smaller systems, where the franchisor and franchisee win together.”
Berry’s approach combines cutting-edge tools with human insight. He champions local marketing support, hyper-personalization and immersive technology as the keys to creating high-value experiences for both franchisees and their customers.
Name: Amanda Evans
Title: Senior Vice President of Marketing
Brand: Stellar Service Brands
Brand Website: https://stellarservicebrands.com/
Amanda Evans, senior vice president of marketing at Stellar Service Brands, brings a unique perspective to franchise marketing — one shaped not only by years of industry experience but also by her time as a franchisee. That dual background informs how she and her team approach their work: with a focus on helping franchise owners improve unit-level economics through practical, profit-driven strategies.
“What I would have said 20 years ago as a young franchise marketer is different from what I say today,” Evans said. “Having been a franchisee, the mindset shift for me was on how do I help them control their P&L in a way that they become profitable — or they eke out more profit than they thought they could.”
Evans says the biggest opportunity for franchise brands today lies in striking the right balance between digital marketing and local relationship-building. While search visibility remains critical, especially with shifts in AI and Google algorithms, referral networks and community engagement are just as important. “It’s really about: What’s the right balance between local selling and digital advertising — making sure you’re found where somebody’s going to look across the digital landscape?” she said.
Name: Missy Maio
Role: Vice President of Marketing and Global Partnerships
Brand: Gong Cha
Brand Website: https://gongchausa.com/
With hundreds of locations worldwide and a rapidly expanding footprint across the United States, Gong Cha is making its mark as a global bubble tea powerhouse — and franchise marketing is at the heart of that growth. Leading the charge is Missy Maio, who brings a franchise-first mindset to every initiative.
From localized launch support to strategic national partnerships, Maio focuses on delivering marketing programs that empower franchisees to drive traffic, build loyalty and stay aligned with Gong Cha’s premium brand experience — all while keeping the unique needs of each market front and center.
Name: Taylor Martin
Title: Director of Brand Marketing
Brand: HomeTeam Inspection Service
Franchise Website: https://www.hometeam.com/
HomeTeam Inspection Service is a trusted national home inspection brand known for its team-based approach, fast and accurate reporting, and deep commitment to customer education. With over 30 years of experience and a network of locally owned franchises, HomeTeam provides professional, streamlined inspections that give home buyers, sellers and real estate professionals peace of mind.
Taylor Martin is the director of brand marketing for HomeTeam, where she leads national and local marketing strategy across the franchise system. With a passion for empowering franchisees, Martin focuses on building scalable, customizable marketing solutions and enhancing the overall customer journey through innovation, authenticity and relationship-driven campaigns.
Name: Jack Mashini
Role: Co-Founder
Brand: Wing Snob
Brand Website: https://www.wingsnob.com/
As co-founder of Wing Snob, Jack Mashini has been instrumental in taking the brand from a single location to a rapidly growing national presence — with plans to hit 100 locations by 2025. Wing Snob stands out in the fast-casual space for its commitment to high-quality wings, inventive sauces and bold customizations — and Mashini’s marketing leadership has helped cement the brand’s reputation as a standout competitor in the chicken wing category.
“At Wing Snob, what I love most is watching our brand grow city by city through the hustle of our franchisees,” Mashini said. “Franchise marketing lets us scale a consistent message while still letting each location put their own local spin on it. Seeing someone new to the brand launch strong because the marketing worked — that’s the best part.”
From hyper-local influencer campaigns to AI-enhanced design tools, Mashini is leading the charge on Wing Snob’s fun, fearless and high-performing approach to marketing.
Name: Caroline Riley
Role: Chief Marketing Officer
Brand: Aroma Joe’s
Brand Website: https://www.aromajoes.com
For Caroline Riley, franchise marketing isn’t just about splashy campaigns or brand-wide messaging — it’s about understanding people. As chief marketing officer of the coffee shop franchise Aroma Joe’s, she’s energized by the unique stories behind each franchisee and the specific needs of every community they serve. Her approach is grounded in strategy and expertise, but it’s her attention to local nuance that makes the brand’s marketing so effective.
“We base each decision on great strategy and expertise, but really listen to the issues an individual shop may be facing,” Riley said.
In a crowded coffee marketplace, Riley sees brand differentiation as Aroma Joe’s biggest opportunity — and its greatest necessity. She’s focused on helping guests not only discover the brand, but become loyal advocates by leaning into the qualities that set Aroma Joe’s apart from the competition. At the same time, she knows that no two markets are the same, which is why customization is key.
For Riley, 2025 will be all about tailoring messaging, channels and creative to match local expectations and behaviors — and then being ready to pivot fast when the data says it’s time.
“Customization in terms of messaging, channels and creative in different markets,” Riley said. “And following the consumer journey to quickly push what is working and pivoting where needed. Data is absolutely key.”
Looking ahead, Riley’s boldest prediction for marketing comes down to technology and mindset. “We need to embrace AI and stop fighting it,” she said. “This will not replace great marketing talent but just make us smarter and more nimble.”
Name: Cathy Chavenet
Role: Chief Marketing Officer
Brand: Paris Baguette
Brand Website: https://parisbaguette.com/
As chief marketing officer and head of R&D at Paris Baguette North America, Cathy Chavenet is helping steer one of the fastest-growing bakery café franchises toward a bold new era. With a unique background that blends hands-on entrepreneurship, culinary expertise and high-level franchise leadership, Chavenet brings a deep understanding of both sides of the franchisor-franchisee relationship.
“Franchise marketing allows us to collaborate with individual franchisees while contributing to the growth of a unified national brand,” Chavenet said.
Before joining Paris Baguette, Chavenet led global marketing strategies at Duck Donuts and regional initiatives for powerhouse brands including Dunkin’ and The Wendy’s Company. Her 13-year tenure at Dunkin’ — where she transitioned from operations to marketing — cemented her franchise marketing philosophy: collaboration, localization and adaptability are key.
Name: Larisa Walega
Role: Chief Growth Officer
Brand: Ziebert
Brand Website: https://www.ziebart.com/
At Ziebart, franchise marketing is driven by a clear focus on accountability, creativity and collaboration. Chief Growth Officer Larissa Walega describes her favorite part of the job as navigating the intersection of brand-building and local impact — crafting strategies that scale while still moving the needle at the unit level. She emphasizes the importance of ensuring every marketing initiative is measurable and directly tied to ROI. That means working closely across departments like sales, operations, technology, customer experience and finance, alongside franchisees themselves. As an employee-owned company, Ziebart treats franchisee marketing dollars with a sense of shared responsibility, making sure every dollar spent works as hard as the owners do.
Walega sees storytelling as one of the biggest untapped opportunities in franchise marketing. With a built-in network of passionate local owners, franchise brands like Ziebart are uniquely positioned to build trust by helping those owners share their stories consistently and authentically. Looking ahead, she predicts continued momentum around AI-driven customer journeys, raw short-form social content and deeper community engagement, especially within niche spaces like automotive culture or veteran services. Most notably, Walega believes the definition of customer loyalty is shifting — less about points programs and more about values alignment. Brands that show up consistently and live their purpose, especially at the local level, will be the ones that stand out.
Name: Danielle Yuthas
Role: Vice President of Marketing
Brand: Main Line Brands (Mosquito Authority, Pest Authority, Fitness Machine Technicians)
Brand Website: https://mainlinebrands.com
Danielle Yuthas' marketing career has been shaped by her digital agency roots and a passion for building strong, scalable brand systems that directly support franchisees. Now at the helm of marketing for Main Line Brands, she leads growth strategies across three unique service franchises — Mosquito Authority, Pest Authority and Fitness Machine Technicians — blending performance marketing with franchisee-first solutions.
Yuthas approaches franchise marketing with an optimizer’s mindset, delivering high-impact strategies like search engine optimization (SEO), local service ads (LSAs) and email automation while always keeping her eye on what matters most: making the phone ring for local owners. Her leadership is helping Main Line Brands scale smartly, support consistently and stand out in competitive categories.
Name: David Daniels
Role: Chief Marketing Officer
Brand: Potbelly Sandwich Works
Brand Website: https://www.potbelly.com
As chief marketing officer at Potbelly Sandwich Works, David Daniels is blending big-brand strategy with community-driven execution to fuel growth for one of the most beloved sandwich franchises in the country. With a franchise system spanning across the United States, Daniels focuses on building a consistent brand voice while empowering franchisees to localize their marketing efforts.
“It’s exciting to have the opportunity to build one, unified brand voice for Potbelly, while also empowering local franchisees to market their shops in ways that resonate with their own communities,” said Daniels. “That local ownership drives engagement, loyalty and, ultimately, positive business performance at the national level.”
With a strong emphasis on digital marketing and data analytics, Daniels and his team equip franchisees with the tools they need to increase traffic, optimize promotions and build local brand awareness — all while staying true to Potbelly’s signature charm.
Name: Mike Revak
Role: President and Chief Business Officer
Brand: Sky Zone
Brand Website: https://www.skyzone.com/
With more than a decade of leadership across the Sky Zone network — and a background that spans restaurants, hospitality and entertainment — Mike Revak is the definition of a seasoned franchise growth leader. As president and chief business officer, Revak is focused on scaling franchise and company-owned park performance by delivering turnkey operational systems, championing local marketing and supporting franchisees with culture-first leadership.
“Franchising is really life-changing for people — they’re investing their 401(k)s, bringing passion and entrepreneurial drive,” Revak said. “Seeing them grow from one to 30 locations is an incredible feeling. That’s what we strive for.”
Revak, who first joined the system in 2012 via Rockin’ Jump (now part of Sky Zone), has helped guide the brand through major expansion. Today, as the trampoline and active entertainment industry moves into a new phase of consolidation and opportunity, Revak is doubling down on Sky Zone’s local-first approach — empowering owners to own their five-mile radius and lead their communities.
Name: Howard Terry
Role: Chief Marketing Officer
Brand: Golden Chick
Brand Website: https://www.goldenchick.com
With a career spanning top restaurant brands like Raising Cane’s, Mooyah, Texas Land & Cattle, Boston’s Pizza and Denny’s, Howard Terry brings a deep understanding of restaurant franchise marketing to his current role as chief marketing officer of Golden Chick. At the helm of a brand with a growing national footprint and a strong Texas identity, Terry is focused on building local trust, driving performance and crafting strategies that serve both the brand and its franchisees.
“I’ve spent a significant portion of my career in brands that have a heavy franchise ownership base, and I love that franchise marketing can be a true partnership. But that always comes down to establishing trust,” said Terry. “Trust is established with complete transparency of your actions, and of course from achieving great results.”
For Terry, franchise marketing is never one-size-fits-all. With Golden Chick operating in 23 unique trade areas, his approach is tailored to the distinct needs of each market — whether that’s launching a new LTO, executing a media strategy or testing localized creative.
Name: Alex Pericchi
Role: Vice President of Marketing
Brand: PuroClean
Brand Website: https://www.puroclean.com/
Franchise marketing at scale is a complex challenge — one that Alex Pericchi meets with a mix of entrepreneurial understanding, strategic precision and deep respect for local ownership. As vice president of marketing for PuroClean, Pericchi sees his role as part connector, part problem-solver, and part brand builder — working with nearly 500 individually owned locations to deliver consistency in reputation and performance without sacrificing the individuality of each market.
“What I love most about franchise marketing is the blend of entrepreneurship — each location is individually owned and operated — and collaboration,” Pericchi said. “We work closely with each location to understand their issues and successes, to learn what’s working and why, so we can then expand these learnings and apply them to the network.”
His focus is clear: create trust in the PuroClean brand at the national level and empower franchisees to activate that trust locally. That starts with visibility — ensuring consumers recognize the brand in times of crisis — and ends with credibility, built through high-value content, real relationships and community presence.
“Brand trust at scale — and empowering local owners to activate it — is the most important thing marketing can do,” he said. “We create the brand halo at the top, but the franchisee has to bring it to life on the ground.”
As the brand grows, Pericchi sees a major opportunity in owning the conversation around emergency property restoration — not just in digital ads, but through voice search, community education and AI-generated answers. His team is prioritizing helpful, searchable content, local storytelling and preparedness campaigns to meet homeowners and business owners where they are — before disaster strikes.
Looking ahead to 2025, Pericchi is tracking four major trends: AI-powered content that still feels human, the rise of answer engine optimization (AEO), the value of first-party data and the timeless impact of local community engagement. But his boldest prediction goes deeper: a seismic shift from lead generation to AI recognition.
“We’re heading into an era where smart systems — ChatGPT, Siri, whatever comes next — will decide what brand shows up first,” he said. “The best answer will win, not just the biggest budget.”
And for Pericchi, that future belongs to the brands that stay relevant, stay human and show up with purpose.
Name: Darren Keeler
Title: Vice President of Marketing and Creative
Brand: Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar
Brand Website: https://www.theshuckinshack.com/
With its irreverent brand voice, scratch-made coastal menu and growing fan base, Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar is more than just a seafood joint — it’s a lifestyle. Driving that message home across markets is Darren Keeler, vice president of marketing and creative, who plays a key role in shaping the brand’s franchise marketing strategy.
Keeler works closely with franchisees to create localized, collaborative campaigns that reflect Shuckin’ Shack’s unique personality while boosting store-level performance. From grassroots ideas to systemwide creative, he’s helping franchisees connect with their communities in real, meaningful ways — all while staying true to what makes the brand stand out.
Name: Brittany Knollmiller
Role: Head of Marketing
Brand: Yogurtland
Brand Website: https://www.yogurtland.com/
With over 15 years of experience in the food and beverage industry — including a formative tenure at El Pollo Loco — Brittany Knollmiller brings both operational savvy and creative vision to her role as head of marketing at Yogurtland. Since joining the iconic self-serve frozen yogurt brand in 2020, Knollmiller has focused on turning consumer love into brand loyalty and franchisee success.
“Honestly? I love that no two days are the same,” Knollmiller said. “You’re constantly balancing the big brand picture with the realities on the ground. And there’s something really rewarding about creating marketing that not only looks good, but actually works for our franchisees.”
Now overseeing marketing for more than 220 Yogurtland locations worldwide, Knollmiller is helping the brand tap into its emotional resonance — creating campaigns that connect through nostalgia, cultural relevance, and experience-based value.
Name: Charlene Bush
Title: Marketing Director
Brand: TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
Brand Website: https://twomenandatruck.com/
Charlene Bush, marketing director at TWO MEN AND A TRUCK, believes successful franchise marketing starts at the local level — with a laser focus on driving profitable customer acquisition. While national branding and storytelling are important, Bush says the true impact on unit-level economics comes from connecting franchisees with customers in their communities. That’s why she emphasizes building systems that make local marketing scalable and effective, ensuring each franchisee has the tools to compete and thrive in their market.
“Franchises sit in a unique position: they have the resources and brand power of a national company, but they win (or lose) at the local, community level,” Bush said. Her mission is to bridge that gap with marketing strategies that are personal, actionable and rooted in real customer needs. Looking ahead, she sees generative AI as a game-changer in creating customized experiences, and predicts a major shift from marketing as a broadcast tool to something more collaborative — where customers are empowered to shape the brand alongside the company itself.
Growing and selling franchises is difficult. No great franchise did it alone. Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisors grow their franchises with confidence? Visit www.1851growthclub.com and see what we can do for you.
Growing a Franchise
These standout marketers are fueling national brand growth, supporting local franchisees and redefining what effective franchise marketing looks like in 2025.
Marketing has become one of the most critical drivers of franchise growth. As customer behavior evolves and competition intensifies, brands are turning to the people behind the messaging to create strategies that don’t just look good on paper — they work in the field. For franchise systems, that means supporting owners in dozens or hundreds of different markets, each with its own challenges and opportunities.
The marketing leaders featured on this year’s list are deeply involved in the day-to-day work of growing their systems. Their efforts are driving real results — from generating qualified leads to strengthening local engagement and giving franchisees the support they need to thrive. They’re focused on clarity over complexity, results over noise and relevance over flash. That focus is helping their systems navigate an uncertain economy while continuing to expand.
These leaders come from a range of backgrounds. Some built careers in national advertising. Others entered franchising through operations or strategy. Many have worn multiple hats across departments. Regardless of where they started, they’ve all earned the trust of their franchisees by building marketing programs that reflect the realities of running a local business.
Their work isn’t about chasing the next big idea. It’s about building sustainable systems, listening to what franchisees need and responding with solutions that make sense — tools that are easy to use, messaging that connects with customers and strategies that align with day-to-day operations. In short, they’re the ones turning brand vision into something actionable at the local level.
The marketers on this list represent a wide cross-section of industries, from home services and food and beverage to health, wellness and education. Their playbooks may look different, but their priorities are aligned: Create value, support franchisees and keep the brand moving forward.
Without further ado, here is the full list of the 25 franchise marketing leaders making the biggest impact in 2025. Stay tuned as we share individual profiles on each of them throughout June and July.
Name: Darshan Gad
Role: Chief Marketing Officer
Brand: KidStrong
Brand Website: https://www.kidstrong.com/
With a background rooted in growth strategy and a passion for empowering entrepreneurs, Darshan Gad brings sharp focus and bold creativity to his role as chief marketing officer at KidStrong. As the brand continues its rapid expansion across the country, Gad is leading the charge to drive ambitious marketing growth while helping franchisees build stronger, more resilient businesses.
By tapping into data and customer insights, maintaining a fanatical focus on ROI, and prioritizing transparency and rapid iteration, Gad is helping KidStrong deliver hyper-targeted, personalized experiences that fuel unit-level success and systemwide impact, all while staying true to the brand’s mission of helping kids build confidence, strength and character from an early age.
Name: Lynlea Rudell
Role: Director of Marketing
Brand: Pool Scouts
Brand Website: https://poolscouts.com/
Lynlea Rudell’s journey into franchise marketing has been shaped by a passion for both marketing strategy and the pool care industry. As the director of marketing for Pool Scouts, she leverages her extensive experience in advertising and her love for swimming to drive both brand growth and franchisee success. With a strong focus on hyper-local marketing, customer engagement and innovative strategies, Rudell has helped Pool Scouts become a trusted name in pool care while fostering a culture of community involvement and franchisee empowerment.
Name: Farrell Timlake
Role: Franchise Marketing Director
Brand: White Rabbit Cannabis
Brand Website: https://www.whiterabbitcannabis.com/
Franchise marketing in the cannabis space is uniquely complex, and for Farrell Timlake, it’s exactly that challenge that makes the work so rewarding. As the franchise marketing director at White Rabbit Cannabis, Timlake thrives on staying sharp in an industry where yesterday’s strategies may not work tomorrow. With strict legal limitations and rapidly shifting market dynamics, he emphasizes the importance of adaptability and creative problem-solving. For Timlake, cannabis franchising isn’t just a business opportunity — it’s a chance to introduce people to a fun, high-impact industry that blends wellness, entrepreneurship and social good.
Timlake sees tremendous potential in targeting baby boomers who are searching for a profitable, recession-resistant business that aligns with values of compassion and positivity. He’s also keeping a close eye on legacy markets, where acquiring turnkey cannabis operations could allow prospective franchisees to scale quickly under the White Rabbit system. While current regulations limit traditional marketing and financing channels, Timlake predicts that changes at the federal level will eventually level the playing field, allowing cannabis franchises to compete more directly with mainstream industries. Until then, his focus remains on helping franchisees boost unit-level economics by targeting the right local demographics, maintaining quality and staying compliant — all without relying on unsustainable discounts or gimmicks.
Name: Kate Doyle-Kwon
Role: Vice President of Communications and Franchise Marketing
Brand: Xponential
Brand Website: https://www.xponential.com/
At Xponential Fitness, franchise marketing is driven by a blend of creativity, data and strategic storytelling — and Vice President of Communications and Franchise Marketing Kate Doyle-Kwon is at the center of it all. She describes her role as a balance between executing campaigns and analyzing their performance, always looking for ways to improve. A key part of her approach is leveraging the success stories of Xponential’s franchisees to engage potential leads and strengthen the connection between brand marketing and the franchise sales process.
Doyle-Kwon believes that showcasing real franchisee experiences — especially those who trust the process, use the available resources, and prioritize growth and team development — is one of the most impactful things marketers can do to support unit-level economics. She also sees major opportunity in highlighting the positive impact new locations have on their communities, especially as Xponential continues to differentiate itself in an increasingly competitive market. Looking ahead, she notes the growing role of AI in streamlining ad creation, media management and lead handling — a shift she’s embracing to drive even greater efficiency and performance across the brand’s marketing efforts.
Name: Ana Malmqvist
Role: Chief Marketing Officer
Brand: Melting Pot
Brand Website: https://www.meltingpot.com
With a career spanning consumer goods, beauty, and hospitality, Ana Malmqvist brings a powerful blend of strategic thinking and customer-centric creativity to her role as chief marketing officer at Melting Pot. After years at iconic brands like L’Oréal, P&G and Bloomin’ Brands, Malmqvist now leads the charge at Melting Pot as the brand celebrates its 50th anniversary — and ushers in a new era of relevance for the next generation of guests.
From navigating the challenges of local and national marketing to leveraging AI and guest data for smarter personalization, Malmqvist is helping franchisees succeed by providing tools, strategies and support tailored to their unique markets — all while keeping “the perfect night out” at the heart of the brand.
Name: Michael DeTrana
Role: Vice President of Marketing
Brand: Take 5 Oil Change (Driven Brands)
Brand Website: https://www.take5.com/
Michael DeTrana's journey to franchise marketing leadership is rooted in analytics, retail strategy and a deep respect for local market knowledge. As vice president of marketing at Take 5 Oil Change, a Driven Brands company with over 1,100 service centers, DeTrana oversees brand, field and revenue marketing efforts that bridge corporate strategy with franchisee success.
His approach to franchise marketing is rooted in partnership. “Franchisees know their markets better than we ever will at corporate,” DeTrana said. “With the right level of input from both sides, we execute truly great local marketing plans that connect to our overarching brand strategy.”
With over a decade of experience across consumer goods, retail and automotive services, DeTrana’s marketing playbook avoids short-termism. He warns against what he calls the “death spiral of promotions,” urging brands instead to focus on building long-term brand salience.
Name: Carol DeNembo
Role: Chief Marketing Officer
Brand: Mountain Mike’s Pizza
Brand Website: https://www.mountainmikespizza.com/
Since joining Mountain Mike’s Pizza in 2018 as vice president of marketing, Carol DeNembro has helped propel the California-born brand into a new era of growth and national recognition. Now as Chief Marketing Officer, she leads all consumer and franchise development marketing efforts — balancing innovative strategies with a brand voice rooted in family, community and authenticity.
From high-profile sports partnerships with teams like the San Francisco 49ers, Los Angeles Angels and Sacramento Kings, to loyalty-trigger campaigns and crave-worthy LTOs like Heart-Shaped Pizzas and Cinnamon Not-Knots, DeNembo’s campaigns resonate deeply — not just with customers, but with franchisees whose success depends on real results
Name: Brian Curin
Role: Chief Executive Officer/Chief Marketing Officer
Brand: Little Kitchen Academy
Brand Website: https://littlekitchenacademy.com/
At the intersection of global mission and local relevance, Brian Curin has found his marketing sweet spot. As CEO and CMO of Little Kitchen Academy, Curin is passionate about telling stories that matter — stories that capture the transformational impact the brand has on children and families around the world. For him, franchise marketing is more than a strategy; it’s a platform to empower local business owners while staying deeply aligned with the brand’s purpose.
“What I love most is the ability to tell a meaningful story that resonates across diverse communities while staying true to a brand’s purpose and core values,” Curin said.
His approach to marketing centers on two key outcomes: attracting the right customers and building lasting trust. Whether through digital campaigns, local partnerships or immersive community events, he believes every marketing initiative should support franchise owners in driving results. And when that work is aligned with operational excellence, it becomes a real engine for profitability.
“Our biggest opportunity lies in storytelling — sharing the transformational impact Little Kitchen Academy has on children and families,” Curin said. “As we grow, amplifying authentic stories from our students, parents, instructors and franchise owners will be key to deepening emotional connection and driving awareness.”
Looking to 2025, Curin sees personalization, AI, community building and digital-physical integration as the defining trends. But his boldest prediction pushes beyond tactics. “I believe we’ll see a shift from influencer marketing to ‘impact marketing,’” he said. “Authenticity and purpose will become the new currency.”
Name: Kelsey McManemin
Role: Vice President of Marketing
Brand: HTeaO
Brand Website: https://hteao.com/
With more than a decade of marketing experience at powerhouse restaurant brands like Raising Cane’s, Salata, Fuzzy’s Taco Shop and CiCi’s Pizza, Kelsey McManemin now leads the charge at HTeaO, one of the fastest-growing beverage franchises in the country. As vice president of marketing, she’s spearheading national and local marketing initiatives designed to solidify HTeaO’s position as a household name — while supporting franchisees in creating meaningful connections with their communities.
Recognized by QSR Magazine as a “Young Restaurant Leader to Watch,” McManemin combines strategic thinking with hands-on operational knowledge. Her focus is squarely on driving unit-level profitability, building brand awareness, and positioning HTeaO at the forefront of beverage innovation.
Name: Colin Berry
Role: Vice President of Brand Development
Brand: Children’s Lighthouse Early Learning Schools
Brand Website: https://childrenslighthouse.com/
With almost six years at Children’s Lighthouse and a career spanning leadership roles at iconic restaurant brands like TGI Fridays, Mr. Gatti’s Pizza and MOOYAH, Colin Berry is no stranger to the fast-paced, people-driven world of franchise marketing. Now as vice president of brand development for Children’s Lighthouse, Berry is helping shape a marketing strategy that balances system-wide consistency with local market nuance — all while helping franchisees build sustainable, high-performing businesses.
“What I love most about franchise marketing is watching a plan come to life that has both an immediate impact on traffic and a long-term impact on the bottom line,” said Berry. “You find common ground with a lot of small business owners, especially in smaller systems, where the franchisor and franchisee win together.”
Berry’s approach combines cutting-edge tools with human insight. He champions local marketing support, hyper-personalization and immersive technology as the keys to creating high-value experiences for both franchisees and their customers.
Name: Amanda Evans
Title: Senior Vice President of Marketing
Brand: Stellar Service Brands
Brand Website: https://stellarservicebrands.com/
Amanda Evans, senior vice president of marketing at Stellar Service Brands, brings a unique perspective to franchise marketing — one shaped not only by years of industry experience but also by her time as a franchisee. That dual background informs how she and her team approach their work: with a focus on helping franchise owners improve unit-level economics through practical, profit-driven strategies.
“What I would have said 20 years ago as a young franchise marketer is different from what I say today,” Evans said. “Having been a franchisee, the mindset shift for me was on how do I help them control their P&L in a way that they become profitable — or they eke out more profit than they thought they could.”
Evans says the biggest opportunity for franchise brands today lies in striking the right balance between digital marketing and local relationship-building. While search visibility remains critical, especially with shifts in AI and Google algorithms, referral networks and community engagement are just as important. “It’s really about: What’s the right balance between local selling and digital advertising — making sure you’re found where somebody’s going to look across the digital landscape?” she said.
Name: Missy Maio
Role: Vice President of Marketing and Global Partnerships
Brand: Gong Cha
Brand Website: https://gongchausa.com/
With hundreds of locations worldwide and a rapidly expanding footprint across the United States, Gong Cha is making its mark as a global bubble tea powerhouse — and franchise marketing is at the heart of that growth. Leading the charge is Missy Maio, who brings a franchise-first mindset to every initiative.
From localized launch support to strategic national partnerships, Maio focuses on delivering marketing programs that empower franchisees to drive traffic, build loyalty and stay aligned with Gong Cha’s premium brand experience — all while keeping the unique needs of each market front and center.
Name: Taylor Martin
Title: Director of Brand Marketing
Brand: HomeTeam Inspection Service
Franchise Website: https://www.hometeam.com/
HomeTeam Inspection Service is a trusted national home inspection brand known for its team-based approach, fast and accurate reporting, and deep commitment to customer education. With over 30 years of experience and a network of locally owned franchises, HomeTeam provides professional, streamlined inspections that give home buyers, sellers and real estate professionals peace of mind.
Taylor Martin is the director of brand marketing for HomeTeam, where she leads national and local marketing strategy across the franchise system. With a passion for empowering franchisees, Martin focuses on building scalable, customizable marketing solutions and enhancing the overall customer journey through innovation, authenticity and relationship-driven campaigns.
Name: Jack Mashini
Role: Co-Founder
Brand: Wing Snob
Brand Website: https://www.wingsnob.com/
As co-founder of Wing Snob, Jack Mashini has been instrumental in taking the brand from a single location to a rapidly growing national presence — with plans to hit 100 locations by 2025. Wing Snob stands out in the fast-casual space for its commitment to high-quality wings, inventive sauces and bold customizations — and Mashini’s marketing leadership has helped cement the brand’s reputation as a standout competitor in the chicken wing category.
“At Wing Snob, what I love most is watching our brand grow city by city through the hustle of our franchisees,” Mashini said. “Franchise marketing lets us scale a consistent message while still letting each location put their own local spin on it. Seeing someone new to the brand launch strong because the marketing worked — that’s the best part.”
From hyper-local influencer campaigns to AI-enhanced design tools, Mashini is leading the charge on Wing Snob’s fun, fearless and high-performing approach to marketing.
Name: Caroline Riley
Role: Chief Marketing Officer
Brand: Aroma Joe’s
Brand Website: https://www.aromajoes.com
For Caroline Riley, franchise marketing isn’t just about splashy campaigns or brand-wide messaging — it’s about understanding people. As chief marketing officer of the coffee shop franchise Aroma Joe’s, she’s energized by the unique stories behind each franchisee and the specific needs of every community they serve. Her approach is grounded in strategy and expertise, but it’s her attention to local nuance that makes the brand’s marketing so effective.
“We base each decision on great strategy and expertise, but really listen to the issues an individual shop may be facing,” Riley said.
In a crowded coffee marketplace, Riley sees brand differentiation as Aroma Joe’s biggest opportunity — and its greatest necessity. She’s focused on helping guests not only discover the brand, but become loyal advocates by leaning into the qualities that set Aroma Joe’s apart from the competition. At the same time, she knows that no two markets are the same, which is why customization is key.
For Riley, 2025 will be all about tailoring messaging, channels and creative to match local expectations and behaviors — and then being ready to pivot fast when the data says it’s time.
“Customization in terms of messaging, channels and creative in different markets,” Riley said. “And following the consumer journey to quickly push what is working and pivoting where needed. Data is absolutely key.”
Looking ahead, Riley’s boldest prediction for marketing comes down to technology and mindset. “We need to embrace AI and stop fighting it,” she said. “This will not replace great marketing talent but just make us smarter and more nimble.”
Name: Cathy Chavenet
Role: Chief Marketing Officer
Brand: Paris Baguette
Brand Website: https://parisbaguette.com/
As chief marketing officer and head of R&D at Paris Baguette North America, Cathy Chavenet is helping steer one of the fastest-growing bakery café franchises toward a bold new era. With a unique background that blends hands-on entrepreneurship, culinary expertise and high-level franchise leadership, Chavenet brings a deep understanding of both sides of the franchisor-franchisee relationship.
“Franchise marketing allows us to collaborate with individual franchisees while contributing to the growth of a unified national brand,” Chavenet said.
Before joining Paris Baguette, Chavenet led global marketing strategies at Duck Donuts and regional initiatives for powerhouse brands including Dunkin’ and The Wendy’s Company. Her 13-year tenure at Dunkin’ — where she transitioned from operations to marketing — cemented her franchise marketing philosophy: collaboration, localization and adaptability are key.
Name: Larisa Walega
Role: Chief Growth Officer
Brand: Ziebert
Brand Website: https://www.ziebart.com/
At Ziebart, franchise marketing is driven by a clear focus on accountability, creativity and collaboration. Chief Growth Officer Larissa Walega describes her favorite part of the job as navigating the intersection of brand-building and local impact — crafting strategies that scale while still moving the needle at the unit level. She emphasizes the importance of ensuring every marketing initiative is measurable and directly tied to ROI. That means working closely across departments like sales, operations, technology, customer experience and finance, alongside franchisees themselves. As an employee-owned company, Ziebart treats franchisee marketing dollars with a sense of shared responsibility, making sure every dollar spent works as hard as the owners do.
Walega sees storytelling as one of the biggest untapped opportunities in franchise marketing. With a built-in network of passionate local owners, franchise brands like Ziebart are uniquely positioned to build trust by helping those owners share their stories consistently and authentically. Looking ahead, she predicts continued momentum around AI-driven customer journeys, raw short-form social content and deeper community engagement, especially within niche spaces like automotive culture or veteran services. Most notably, Walega believes the definition of customer loyalty is shifting — less about points programs and more about values alignment. Brands that show up consistently and live their purpose, especially at the local level, will be the ones that stand out.
Name: Danielle Yuthas
Role: Vice President of Marketing
Brand: Main Line Brands (Mosquito Authority, Pest Authority, Fitness Machine Technicians)
Brand Website: https://mainlinebrands.com
Danielle Yuthas' marketing career has been shaped by her digital agency roots and a passion for building strong, scalable brand systems that directly support franchisees. Now at the helm of marketing for Main Line Brands, she leads growth strategies across three unique service franchises — Mosquito Authority, Pest Authority and Fitness Machine Technicians — blending performance marketing with franchisee-first solutions.
Yuthas approaches franchise marketing with an optimizer’s mindset, delivering high-impact strategies like search engine optimization (SEO), local service ads (LSAs) and email automation while always keeping her eye on what matters most: making the phone ring for local owners. Her leadership is helping Main Line Brands scale smartly, support consistently and stand out in competitive categories.
Name: David Daniels
Role: Chief Marketing Officer
Brand: Potbelly Sandwich Works
Brand Website: https://www.potbelly.com
As chief marketing officer at Potbelly Sandwich Works, David Daniels is blending big-brand strategy with community-driven execution to fuel growth for one of the most beloved sandwich franchises in the country. With a franchise system spanning across the United States, Daniels focuses on building a consistent brand voice while empowering franchisees to localize their marketing efforts.
“It’s exciting to have the opportunity to build one, unified brand voice for Potbelly, while also empowering local franchisees to market their shops in ways that resonate with their own communities,” said Daniels. “That local ownership drives engagement, loyalty and, ultimately, positive business performance at the national level.”
With a strong emphasis on digital marketing and data analytics, Daniels and his team equip franchisees with the tools they need to increase traffic, optimize promotions and build local brand awareness — all while staying true to Potbelly’s signature charm.
Name: Mike Revak
Role: President and Chief Business Officer
Brand: Sky Zone
Brand Website: https://www.skyzone.com/
With more than a decade of leadership across the Sky Zone network — and a background that spans restaurants, hospitality and entertainment — Mike Revak is the definition of a seasoned franchise growth leader. As president and chief business officer, Revak is focused on scaling franchise and company-owned park performance by delivering turnkey operational systems, championing local marketing and supporting franchisees with culture-first leadership.
“Franchising is really life-changing for people — they’re investing their 401(k)s, bringing passion and entrepreneurial drive,” Revak said. “Seeing them grow from one to 30 locations is an incredible feeling. That’s what we strive for.”
Revak, who first joined the system in 2012 via Rockin’ Jump (now part of Sky Zone), has helped guide the brand through major expansion. Today, as the trampoline and active entertainment industry moves into a new phase of consolidation and opportunity, Revak is doubling down on Sky Zone’s local-first approach — empowering owners to own their five-mile radius and lead their communities.
Name: Howard Terry
Role: Chief Marketing Officer
Brand: Golden Chick
Brand Website: https://www.goldenchick.com
With a career spanning top restaurant brands like Raising Cane’s, Mooyah, Texas Land & Cattle, Boston’s Pizza and Denny’s, Howard Terry brings a deep understanding of restaurant franchise marketing to his current role as chief marketing officer of Golden Chick. At the helm of a brand with a growing national footprint and a strong Texas identity, Terry is focused on building local trust, driving performance and crafting strategies that serve both the brand and its franchisees.
“I’ve spent a significant portion of my career in brands that have a heavy franchise ownership base, and I love that franchise marketing can be a true partnership. But that always comes down to establishing trust,” said Terry. “Trust is established with complete transparency of your actions, and of course from achieving great results.”
For Terry, franchise marketing is never one-size-fits-all. With Golden Chick operating in 23 unique trade areas, his approach is tailored to the distinct needs of each market — whether that’s launching a new LTO, executing a media strategy or testing localized creative.
Name: Alex Pericchi
Role: Vice President of Marketing
Brand: PuroClean
Brand Website: https://www.puroclean.com/
Franchise marketing at scale is a complex challenge — one that Alex Pericchi meets with a mix of entrepreneurial understanding, strategic precision and deep respect for local ownership. As vice president of marketing for PuroClean, Pericchi sees his role as part connector, part problem-solver, and part brand builder — working with nearly 500 individually owned locations to deliver consistency in reputation and performance without sacrificing the individuality of each market.
“What I love most about franchise marketing is the blend of entrepreneurship — each location is individually owned and operated — and collaboration,” Pericchi said. “We work closely with each location to understand their issues and successes, to learn what’s working and why, so we can then expand these learnings and apply them to the network.”
His focus is clear: create trust in the PuroClean brand at the national level and empower franchisees to activate that trust locally. That starts with visibility — ensuring consumers recognize the brand in times of crisis — and ends with credibility, built through high-value content, real relationships and community presence.
“Brand trust at scale — and empowering local owners to activate it — is the most important thing marketing can do,” he said. “We create the brand halo at the top, but the franchisee has to bring it to life on the ground.”
As the brand grows, Pericchi sees a major opportunity in owning the conversation around emergency property restoration — not just in digital ads, but through voice search, community education and AI-generated answers. His team is prioritizing helpful, searchable content, local storytelling and preparedness campaigns to meet homeowners and business owners where they are — before disaster strikes.
Looking ahead to 2025, Pericchi is tracking four major trends: AI-powered content that still feels human, the rise of answer engine optimization (AEO), the value of first-party data and the timeless impact of local community engagement. But his boldest prediction goes deeper: a seismic shift from lead generation to AI recognition.
“We’re heading into an era where smart systems — ChatGPT, Siri, whatever comes next — will decide what brand shows up first,” he said. “The best answer will win, not just the biggest budget.”
And for Pericchi, that future belongs to the brands that stay relevant, stay human and show up with purpose.
Name: Darren Keeler
Title: Vice President of Marketing and Creative
Brand: Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar
Brand Website: https://www.theshuckinshack.com/
With its irreverent brand voice, scratch-made coastal menu and growing fan base, Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar is more than just a seafood joint — it’s a lifestyle. Driving that message home across markets is Darren Keeler, vice president of marketing and creative, who plays a key role in shaping the brand’s franchise marketing strategy.
Keeler works closely with franchisees to create localized, collaborative campaigns that reflect Shuckin’ Shack’s unique personality while boosting store-level performance. From grassroots ideas to systemwide creative, he’s helping franchisees connect with their communities in real, meaningful ways — all while staying true to what makes the brand stand out.
Name: Brittany Knollmiller
Role: Head of Marketing
Brand: Yogurtland
Brand Website: https://www.yogurtland.com/
With over 15 years of experience in the food and beverage industry — including a formative tenure at El Pollo Loco — Brittany Knollmiller brings both operational savvy and creative vision to her role as head of marketing at Yogurtland. Since joining the iconic self-serve frozen yogurt brand in 2020, Knollmiller has focused on turning consumer love into brand loyalty and franchisee success.
“Honestly? I love that no two days are the same,” Knollmiller said. “You’re constantly balancing the big brand picture with the realities on the ground. And there’s something really rewarding about creating marketing that not only looks good, but actually works for our franchisees.”
Now overseeing marketing for more than 220 Yogurtland locations worldwide, Knollmiller is helping the brand tap into its emotional resonance — creating campaigns that connect through nostalgia, cultural relevance, and experience-based value.
Name: Charlene Bush
Title: Marketing Director
Brand: TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
Brand Website: https://twomenandatruck.com/
Charlene Bush, marketing director at TWO MEN AND A TRUCK, believes successful franchise marketing starts at the local level — with a laser focus on driving profitable customer acquisition. While national branding and storytelling are important, Bush says the true impact on unit-level economics comes from connecting franchisees with customers in their communities. That’s why she emphasizes building systems that make local marketing scalable and effective, ensuring each franchisee has the tools to compete and thrive in their market.
“Franchises sit in a unique position: they have the resources and brand power of a national company, but they win (or lose) at the local, community level,” Bush said. Her mission is to bridge that gap with marketing strategies that are personal, actionable and rooted in real customer needs. Looking ahead, she sees generative AI as a game-changer in creating customized experiences, and predicts a major shift from marketing as a broadcast tool to something more collaborative — where customers are empowered to shape the brand alongside the company itself.
Growing and selling franchises is difficult. No great franchise did it alone. Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisors grow their franchises with confidence? Visit www.1851growthclub.com and see what we can do for you.
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