Growth Club
1851 Growth Club
Top 10 Female-Led Franchise Brands
In a male-dominated space, these 10 franchise concepts are thriving thanks to their female leadership.
2022 data shows that about 8% of CEOs are women, and The World Economic Forum says it will take over 130 years to reach global gender parity. In spite of these harrowing statistics, women continue to achieve as they break into leadership roles.
Here are 10 franchise giants that are led by women.
Carol B. Tomé is the CEO of The UPS Store. Prior to joining the company, she worked at The Home Depot, Wells Fargo and Riverwood International Corporation.
The UPS Store has positioned itself as the place to go for any “-ing” you may need — printing, packing, shipping, and more. With over 5,000 units established, the concept is a staple for many Americans.
Catherine Monson is the CEO of Propelled Brands, the parent franchisor of FASTSIGNS, NerdsToGo and MY SALON Suite. She has held the role for over 14 years.
Monson is a board member of the International Franchise Association, Big Blue Swim School* and Brain Balance Achievement Centers.
Nothing Bundt Cakes was founded by Dena Tripp and Debbie Shwetz, two friends who started baking bundt cakes in their home kitchens. Though the brand has since been acquired by a private equity firm, Tripp and Shwetz played a crucial role in propelling the concept forward. Tripp continues to be involved with the concept.
There are now nearly 500 units established, and the brand continues to grow.
This salon real estate rental model is led by CEO Christina Russell. Before joining Sola Salons, Russell worked with multiple franchise giants, including Camp Bow Wow, Pure Barre and Curves International.
Hagan Kappler, CEO of Threshold Brands, has spent over a decade in strategy, development and leadership roles.
Threshold Brands is the parent franchisor to nine home services franchise concepts, and it has established over 500 units nationwide.
Jo Kirchner, CEO of Primrose Schools, has been with the concept since 1990. In 1999, she stepped into her current role as CEO and President.
Primrose was ranked first in Entrepreneur’s child care category in 2022 and was number 65 on the overall Franchise 500 list. With over 450 locations and decades in business, Primrose has grown to become one of the most well-known private school concepts.
Kelli Valade brings over a decade of experience in leadership roles to the casual dining concept. She also sits on the board of multiple organizations.
Denny’s was first established in 1953 and has grown to over 1,500 units, offering family-style dining at an affordable price.
Regan Stokes is the President of Pure Barre, a barre fitness class franchise concept. She joined the brand after working as COO with TruFusion.
The brand currently has over 600 units and is well-known across North America.
Amanda Shaw served as CEO of Blaze Pizza from 2019 to early 2023, leading the concept through the pandemic — a trying time for many food concepts.
Blaze Pizza now has about 330 units that offer Fast-Fire’d, made-to-order pizzas in a fast-casual setting.
Susan Boresow is President and CEO of Massage Heights, a wellness concept that offers therapeutic massages and facials. Prior to her role at Massage Heights, Boresow worked at TITLE Boxing Club, Massage Envy, Sport Clips* and more.
*This brand is a paid partner of 1851 Franchise. For more information on paid partnerships please click here.
