GT&S Franchise Executive Search connects experienced franchise executives operating the best systems in the world with exemplary talent
A triumvirate of franchise titans boasting a cumulative 90 years of franchising experience have joined forces to ensure that franchise companies find the right senior-level executives for their operation.
The three founding partners include ex-executive vice president of development, marketing & communications at the International Franchise Association (IFA), Scott Lehr, chairman of Franchise Update Media, Gary Gardner, and president and CEO of MFV Expositions, Tom Portesy.
“We all became good friends over the years, and when we talked we were always discussing the companies that were looking for experienced executives or the executives looking for their next opportunity, and we realized that we were all helping the companies and executives match up,” explains Lehr. “When I decided to retire from the IFA after 29 years, it was a natural fit for me, as I was looking to do something else in franchising. Gary and Tom thought it was a great idea, and suggested that we form a partnership to utilize all of our collective contacts and experience.”
Due to Gardner and Portesy currently still in full-time jobs at their other respective companies, CEO and operating officer, Lehr, has been tasked with getting GT&S Franchise Executive Search on its feet. “As the first employee of the firm, I’ll be responsible for all day-to-day operations including meeting with franchisors to help them with their hiring needs, and sourcing the right candidates for the positions they are looking to fill,” he says. “I will also be responsible for marketing and will be the face of the organization at industry events.”
With a wealth of experience and knowledge behind them – the trio state that they have matched hundreds of franchises with relevant c-suite executives – not to mention a formidable collective contact book, the GT&S team is confident that it can scout the best talent for fast-growing franchise companies. “With the strong economy in the U.S. And the unemployment rate so low, there’s a shortage of people-talent to help franchisors grow and support their franchisees,” says Lehr. “GT&S will help franchisors find the right executives to the next level.”
Image credit: Meriel Jane Waissman
