FranConnect, the leading provider of AI-powered solutions for franchise and multi-location businesses, has announced a strategic realignment of its executive leadership team. The company has appointed new chiefs for its AI, product, and finance/operations divisions, signaling a focused investment in core technological capabilities to meet the evolving demands of the franchise market.
Quick Intel
FranConnect appoints Charlie Zhang as CFO & COO and Mark Calvillo as Chief Product Officer.
Jaffrey Ali evolves into the newly created role of Chief AI Officer to lead AI strategy.
The executive shuffle aims to scale innovation and operational agility for franchise brands.
These moves strengthen leadership in AI, product commercialization, and financial operations.
The appointments build on the recent addition of a Chief Customer Officer.
This reflects a strategic push to capture a greater share of the franchise technology market.
Strengthening the AI Foundation
The creation of a Chief AI Officer role underscores the strategic importance of artificial intelligence to FranConnect's future. Jaffrey Ali, a recognized thought leader, has been promoted to this position to helm the company's AI innovation. He has been the driving force behind flagship AI products like Frannie AI™, FranConnect GO, and the advanced analytics suite. This dedicated leadership role is designed to accelerate the development of AI tools that help franchises optimize operations and unlock new growth opportunities.
Accelerating Product Innovation
With the appointment of Mark Calvillo as Chief Product Officer, FranConnect gains a seasoned executive to lead its global product strategy. Calvillo brings over 25 years of experience in the franchising and restaurant industry, most recently from Restaurant365. His mandate is to drive the next chapter of product innovation and rapid commercialization across all of FranConnect's product lines and international markets.
Scaling Operations and Finance
To support its ambitious growth targets, FranConnect has named Charlie Zhang as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer. Zhang's background in investment banking at Citigroup and private equity investing at Warburg Pincus equips him with a strong financial and strategic acumen. In his previous role as CFO of ION Analytics, he led global finance through significant revenue expansion. At FranConnect, he will be responsible for scaling global finance and operations to capture the company's market opportunity.
These key executive appointments build upon the recent hiring of a Chief Customer Officer, creating a comprehensive leadership team with deep expertise across all critical business functions. This consolidated leadership structure positions FranConnect to drive innovation, accelerate growth, and deliver enhanced value to its global roster of franchise and multi-location brands.
FranConnect is the leading enterprise software provider for franchise and multi-location businesses. For 25+ years, the FranConnect AI-powered platform has served as the backbone for sales, operations, and marketing for over 1,500 brands and one million locations worldwide. Iconic brands such as Bojangles, Capriotti's, Gold's Gym, Neighborly, and Papa John's rely on FranConnect to expand locations, streamline unit operations, enhance collaboration, and improve profitability. Backed by private equity investor Serent Capital, FranConnect is headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, with global offices in Australia, India, Colombia, and Canada.
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