Top Franchise Development Executives of 2024: Jen Chaney, Vice President of Franchise Development, Right at Home

After finding her way to franchising with a local brand, Jen Chaney, vice president of franchise development for Right at Home*, saw an opportunity to join the global in-home care brand.

“It was the perfect fit for me,” she said. “Not only is it a reputable brand, with locations all over the globe, coupled with a track record spanning nearly 30 years, but also a brand that is meaningful in so many ways.”

With a successful track record in franchise development over the span of 10-plus years, Chaney is now using her experience to drive the strategic growth of Right at Home as the demand for quality in-home care consistently grows.

1851 Franchise spoke with Chaney to learn more about her story, as well as to learn about some common mistakes she sees franchisors making in today’s landscape.

A transcript of Chaney’s interview with 1851 Franchise has been provided below. It has been edited for clarity, brevity and style.

1851 Franchise: Tell us about your brand.

Jen Chaney: I am proud to represent a brand that stands at the forefront of the home care industry. Right at Home is dedicated to providing exceptional in-home care services that enhance the quality of life for seniors and adults with disabilities. Our mission is to improve the lives of those we serve by offering personalized care plans tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. 

Right at Home’s commitment to excellence is reflected in our caregiver training programs, ensuring that our team is equipped with the skills and compassion necessary to deliver top-notch care. We prioritize safety, comfort and dignity, creating a supportive environment where clients can thrive. Our franchise model is designed to empower entrepreneurs who share our passion for making a difference in their communities. We offer comprehensive support — including extensive training, marketing resources and ongoing operational assistance — to help our franchisees thrive. By joining the Right at Home family, franchisees become part of a trusted brand with a proven track record and a strong reputation for quality care. 

Right at Home is more than just a home care provider; it is a community of dedicated professionals committed to making a positive impact on the lives of those we serve. I’ve never been more excited to continue expanding our reach and bringing our exceptional services to even more families in need.

1851: How did you get into franchising? 

Chaney: I was approached by a friend who did marketing for a local franchise brand. With 10 years of sales experience under my belt, I gladly took the role and spent the next seven years in various roles on the franchise development team with that company. When this opportunity became available at Right at Home, it was the perfect fit for me. Not only is it a reputable brand — with locations all over the globe, coupled with a track record spanning nearly 30 years — but also a brand that is meaningful in so many ways. I fell in love with franchising — specifically franchise development — from the start. It’s been a great ride, and I really can’t imagine being in any other field.

1851: Are there any keys to consistent franchise growth? 

Chaney: Consistent franchise growth at Right at Home absolutely relies on maintaining a strong brand reputation for high-quality care, providing comprehensive support to franchisees and conducting thorough market research. We stay competitive by offering innovative services and leveraging technology while fostering strong relationships with our franchisees to share best practices and address challenges together. 

Effective marketing strategies and a culture of continuous improvement ensure we meet the evolving needs of our clients and franchisees, helping us expand our reach and impact. If any of those areas lack or are missing, consistent growth is challenging. You must have all those components to see the consistent growth!

1851: What are the biggest hurdles to successful franchise growth right now? 

Chaney: One hurdle is the competitive landscape of the home care industry, which requires us to continuously innovate and differentiate our services. Recruiting and retaining qualified caregivers is another challenge that some owners face, as the demand for caregivers, at times, can exceed supply. 

Additionally, regulatory changes and compliance requirements can vary widely by region, adding complexity to expansion efforts. To support our franchise owners through these challenges, we have incorporated corporate support team members in each area as subject matter experts, hyper-focused on these areas that are critical for growth.

1851: Are there any common mistakes you see franchisors making when trying to grow? 

Chaney: Franchisors often make mistakes that hinder growth, such as not clearly defining their brand, which leads to inconsistent messaging. Inadequate training and support for franchisees can result in high turnover and dissatisfaction. Poor legal and financial planning can cause costly mistakes, while expanding too quickly can strain resources and dilute the brand. Ineffective franchisee recruitment and failure to conduct thorough market research can lead to partnerships with unsuitable individuals and opening locations with insufficient demand. Lastly, inconsistent quality control across franchises can damage the brand’s reputation and customer trust. By being aware of these pitfalls, franchisors can take steps to avoid them and foster sustainable growth. 

1851: What is your number one goal at the moment?

Chaney: My number one right now is — and always has been — to drive sustainable and strategic growth. This involves not only expanding the number of franchise locations across the United States but also ensuring that each new franchisee is well-supported and positioned for an incredible journey as a Right at Home franchise owner for many years to come. By focusing on quality over quantity, I can maintain our brand’s reputation for excellence while fostering a strong, cohesive network of franchisees who are committed to delivering exceptional care.

Every great franchisee had help buying a franchise. Want to learn more about how 1851 helps franchisees find the right franchise opportunity? Visit www.1851growthclub.com and start your journey.