- Ann Arbor, Michigan-based franchising company Franworth announced it recruited NFL quarterback Drew Brees as a partner and executive board member
Franworth — an Ann Arbor, Michigan-based franchising company — announced it has recruited NFL quarterback Drew Brees as a partner and executive board member. Brees is known for playing quarterback for the New Orleans Saints and is going to contribute to accelerating the growth of the company’s portfolio of franchise brands — including Title Boxing Club, The Lash Lounge, CITYROW, and Sweetwaters Coffee and Tea.
Brees started out in the NFL back in 2001 with the San Diego Chargers. After Brees was signed to the Saints, he was a vital part of the team as they won in Super Bowl XLIV. And Brees is also a franchiser who owns several Jimmy John’s and Walk On’s Bistreaux & Bar restaurants along with being a partner in the Title Boxing Club franchise.
Launched in 2015, Franworth is led by CEO John Rotche, CFE and is supported by a team of franchising industry veterans with nearly 400 years of combined experience.
“I have no doubt that his extensive experience as a multi-unit, multi-brand operator, coupled with his leadership qualities and integrity, will be an invaluable resource as we continue building our brands to be the best of the best,” said Rotche in a news release.
Franworth’s executive team includes David Barr (managing director and partner), Tom Lyons (partner), Richard Washburn (partner), Dave Keil (partner), Dave Taccolini (CFO), Jonathan Koudelka (general counsel and chief of staff), Meg Roberts, CFE (operating partner), Michael Skitzki (operating partner), Bill Collins (EVP), Dan Hannay (VP of Procurement and President of Liberty Fulfillment), Tim O’Connor (divisional VP), Jennifer Fields (divisional VP), John Cohen (VP), Aaron Wunder (VP of Construction and Real Estate), Wasim Somo (VP of Marketing and Engagement), and Adam Wilensky (VP of Finance & Analytics).
“I am beyond excited to join the Franworth team as a partner and member of the Executive Board. Franworth’s leadership, wisdom, and experience represent the very best in franchising, coupled with an impressive list of franchise brands possessing incredible growth opportunities,” added Brees.
As businesses owners join the Franworth family of franchise brands, they are gaining access to industry knowledge and receiving guidance from the company’s executive team on all aspects of the franchising process, including franchise sales, real estate development, construction, marketing, operations and training, financial planning, legal, product fulfillment, and executive advisory.
“After spending decades in the franchising industry building and growing several businesses, I saw first-hand the struggle franchisors face in reaching that critically important 100 unit mark, and recognized an opportunity to leverage my experience and help founders with a strong concept become successful franchisors,” explained Rotche. “We’re excited to deepen our relationship with Drew at this pivotal moment in our company’s history. I have no doubt that his extensive experience as a multi-unit, multi-brand operator, coupled with his leadership qualities and integrity, will be an invaluable resource as we continue building our brands to be the best of the best.”
