As the COO of a top-performing franchise group for the past 13+ years, I have demonstrated strengths in building a sound and scalable operating infrastructure, fostering a vibrant culture with tenured team members, giving back to the communities in which we operate, and championing continuous improvement through modernization and efficiencies. Launching my journey with the Jimmy John’s brand at the age of 26, I ‘grew up’ with the business, leveraging my ability to build authentic connections with people as the driving force behind my success. Fast forward almost 14 years, and I have operated as many as 11 locations concurrently, proudly provide employment opportunities for 150 Central Ohioans, and now lead a business generating $8.5M in annual revenue. Involved in every facet of the business, from site acquisition through asset optimization, human resources leadership, sales and marketing, operational excellence, and P&L management, there is nothing I don’t touch when it comes to leading what has been considered a model entity by the Jimmy John’s organization.Concurrently, I have leveraged my passion for people as a realtor, having closed more than $30M in transactions over the past 14 years. Most importantly, I have partnered with first-time buyers to realize their dream of homeownership, uncovered high-ROI opportunities for real estate investors, and maintained an astute awareness of the Central Ohio landscape, which has informed my business dealings.Passionate about meeting the needs of those less fortunate in our community, I have championed many initiatives as a leader with the YMCA Housing & Shelter Board. As President, I created a fundraising campaign called Give Her Hope, which, since inception, has raised more than $500K for women, children, and families. I also have held board positions with the German Village Society, a local tennis nonprofit, and the Columbus Lesbian Gay Softball Association.As a result of my entrepreneurial successes, real estate engagements, and activism within the community, I was recently honored as one of Columbus Business First’s ‘40 Under 40’ honorees. One of my nominating letters stated that I embody the leadership, qualities of the best and brightest for tomorrow’s future. While my humility doesn’t allow that compliment to sink in, I did connect with the three critical qualities the recommender cited as my leadership strengths: passionate about helping others, tenacity, and being a true change agent.