Franchisee Voices: Scott Lindsey of Sylvan Learning

Scott Lindsey has stretched his entrepreneurial goals with Sylvan Learning on an international scale and has returned to the United States with his transfer to the Falls Church, Va., location.

Lindsey graduated from Jacksonville State University in Alabama with his bachelor’s degree in financial management. In 1994, Lindsey began his professional career with Estee Lauder as a Spa Business Manager, where his responsibilities included managing daily operations and sales. Working in Beverly Hills, Calif., with Estee Lauder, Lindsey moved to Washington D.C. to advance within the company.

When Lindsey discovered Sylvan Learning, he decided to transition to an education career. He became the district manager in charge of 16 learning centers in the Washington, D.C., area for almost four years. Throughout this specific position, Lindsey managed multiple teams, expedited the businesses model and developed a passion for the education industry.

Soon the opportunity to expand the brand abroad arose, and Lindsey made the decision to become the franchise consultant for Sylvan Learning in the Middle East. Over a span of three months he oversaw the opening of new centers in Dubai, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Abu Dhabi. Seeing the high priority parents in the Gulf region placed on education, Lindsey became the chief operations officer of Sylvan Learning in the region for the next three years. During this time, Lindsey was a member of the board of directors for The Amazon Group LLC and an advisor to the board of directors with the SAMA Group.

When the contract ended, Lindsey came back to the United States and for the next year consulted the existing franchisee in Falls Church. But he quickly learned that he wanted to work for himself again, so Lindsey made the decision purchase the center and take over as owner.

How did you learn about the brand? 
Well, I was familiar with the brand, and my previous boss decided to enter the Sylvan work force. I respected her business choices and wanted something new to embark on.

Why did you choose an opportunity with Sylvan?

I knew about the reputation Sylvan had and saw it as something I could grow. Once I learned even more about the company and spoke with corporate, I knew it was a perfect fit.

Are you involved with any charities or do any community outreach with your business?

With the new location we are not acclimated with the entire community yet. However, I am volunteering at one of the homeless shelters and have joined the Chamber of Commerce.

What challenges have you overcome to get where you are now?
The biggest challenge was when the economy took a turn for the worse. Even owning centers in the Gulf region, I had battles, but that is part of the process. Education is the greatest gift, and there are so many setbacks with cutbacks. Seeing people struggle is difficult to see, and it is nice to provide them a helpful service.