Global Franchise meets FASTSIGNS’ VP of Franchise Support and Development
Mark Jameson currently is Executive Vice President of Franchise Support & Development for FASTSIGNS International and is a Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) with more than 20 years of experience in all aspects of franchising. He joined FASTSIGNS International in 2009, and today leads Franchise Support (including Training, Operations and Supply Chain) and Global Franchise Development. Mark’s responsibilities cover overseeing ‘lead to lights on’ support (through Franchise Sales, Real Estate and Development Services teams) and then continue seamlessly into providing ongoing, lifelong franchisee support.
Where is home for you and is this where you come from?
I live in Dallas, Texas, and have lived here for the 10 years I have been with FASTSIGNS. I’m originally from Connecticut and that’s where much of my family is, though. Through my career, I have had the opportunity to live in many places in the US – I love Texas and this is my second time here.
What do you like so much about franchising?
I love to meet new people – in my role it’s wonderful to be involved with candidates from all walks of life, countries, regions and cultures and see them from the beginning as they are achieving their goals and dreams! You build lifelong friendships both through franchisees and suppliers – it’s a wonderful community.
How did you get started in franchising?
I was originally an executive in banking but lost my job through an economic crisis. I took a temporary job as the store manager for the Coffee Beanery and it turned out to be a career. It’s been an amazing ride.
Had you not gone into franchising, what would you have done?
Good question! I might have stayed in banking, although early on I was involved in local politics and had often thought that was a channel. Or real estate, who knows! However, franchising allows me to explore all those areas of interest.
How much traveling does your job entail?
A LOT! Is that a good answer? It certainly depends on the time of the year and events, but it’s likely over 60 per cent annually and in some months it’s 80 per cent or better. I travel both domestically and internationally for FASTSIGNS.
How do you think other people would describe you?
That’s a hard one! Maybe determined, with a strong work ethic, and sometimes funny, and sometimes not!
If you had to start over, what would you do differently?
Always hard to answer this but today, I love my career, our brand FASTSIGNS and my role as well have a great personal life with amazing friends and a great partner, so nothing! Maybe wish I knew then, what I know now.
How do you relax?
Time at home with my Brittany Spaniel pup, Porter, and believe it or not, traveling. I also love to travel with my partner. We really enjoy Cabo, Las Vegas, and Palm Spring, among many other places. Also, I enjoy concerts and dining out!
