Top Women in Franchising: Susan Lintonsmith, The ONE Group Hospitality, Inc.

Susan Lintonsmith is a board member at The ONE Group Hospitality, Inc., but that’s not all. As a well-established hospitality professional, Lintonsmith has worked with The Coca-Cola Company, Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Quiznos, Elements Massage and more. In the heavily male-dominated business world, Lintonsmith has held multiple C-level positions at large corporations and continues to be a leader in the space.

Throughout Lintonsmith’s professional history, she has led efforts to grow brands and has even been able to fully revive dying brands after years of consecutive sales declines. 

In 2019, Lintonsmith became CEO and Board Member at Elements Massage, an offshoot of WellBiz Brands. With hundreds of units, the parent franchisor oversees Elements Massage, Drybar and Radiant Waxing, among other health, wellness and beauty brands.

With over three decades of experience in strategy and branding for competitive consumer-focused sectors, she now brings her valuable insights to The ONE Group Hospitality’s Board of Directors.

The ONE Group is over STK Steakhouse, Kona Grill, and ONE Hospitality, which provides management services to hotels and casinos. As the organization strives to become a global leader in “Vibe Dining,” it is developing and operating “upscale and polished casual, high-energy restaurants and lounges.” 

“There’s a lot of things you can do out there… a lot of great opportunities,” she said in a Kelley School of Business One-Minute Mentor video. “But I’ve found that I’ve been happiest where I’m doing something that I love, and I really feel and trust the brand.