After years of operating in the franchisee industry, I decided to leverage my business experience, strategic thinking, and marketing expertise to help individuals explore the right path to business ownership. Today, as a Franchise Consultant and Business Consulting Specialist, I work with people who are ready to take the next big step in their careers and are considering franchise ownership as an opportunity to build their own business.
My journey in business started back in 1968, when I started my career in the retail industry earning $1.25 an hour. Just six months later, I was accepted into the company’s management training program, earning $100 a week. I quickly discovered that I had a natural ability for leadership and business. Within approximately 36 months, I had become a store manager, and during my tenure in retail, I went on to manage several stores. In 1974, I was named Store Manager of the Year, earning the distinction of being recognized as one of the best managers in the system. But there was another side to that success. In the years that followed, my reward for consistently achieving the company’s goals was continued promotion through transfers. Over the course of my retail career, I was transferred 18 different times across six different states, including a move from a small town to Cleveland, Ohio. So constantly moving from one place to another was a significant challenge for my family. I was working hard, putting in the hours and achieving the goals my company had set for me, but I began to realize that I wasn’t doing nearly as well at achieving my own personal goals. That realization forced me to take a hard look at what I wanted for my future. For me, the answer was to make a change. In 1978, I left the traditional retail career path and moved into franchising, including owning my own franchise. It turned out to be one of the most important decisions of my professional life. Since then, I have worked in a variety of roles within the franchise industry, including serving as Vice President of Franchising for seven different brands, while also owning and operating multiple franchises
myself.
My and Dolly’s journey is also a partnership. We have shared 29 years of marriage, and Dolly brings more than 25 years of experience in education, along with her own perspective and understanding of people, communication and personal development. As co-owners of The Laird Corporation, we bring two complementary perspectives to every conversation – business and franchise experience alongside an understanding of the personal considerations that come with making an important career and business decision.
Today, we use our combined experience to help others explore the possibility of business ownership. Through a proven franchise matchmaking process, we help prospective business owners explore their options, understand different opportunities, and identify franchises that may align with their goals, skills, experience, interests and budget.
We believe that choosing a franchise is not simply about finding a business. It is about finding an opportunity that fits your life, your goals and your vision for the future. Whether you’re exploring business ownership on your own or together with a spouse or partner, we are here to make the process more personal, approachable and informed.
Our goal is simple, to help people make informed, confident decisions as they pursue a business ownership opportunity that’s right for them.
