For our October 8 luncheon meeting, SEFF will partner with the Franchise Lending Spotlight Conference, presented by BoeFly, to host the quarterly International Franchise Association’s Franchise Business Network meeting.
The keynote address will be presented by Steve Romaniello, Managing Director of Roark Capital Group and the Chairman of the International Franchise Association. Mr. Romaniello will be discussing The State of Franchising.
Please note that this month’s meeting will be held at the InterContinental Buckhead Atlanta Hotel.
Sponsored By: FranConnect
Romaniello joined Roark in 2008. Romaniello is actively involved with Roark’s investments in FOCUS Brands, Wingstop, Corner Bakery, McAlister’s, and Arby’s. Romaniello is a member of the Executive Committee of the International Franchise Association and is the current Chairman of the IFA Educational Foundation. Prior to joining Roark, Romaniello was CEO of FOCUS Brands. Prior to becoming CEO of FOCUS Brands, Romaniello served as President of Carvel Ice Cream. Under Romaniello’s leadership, FOCUS Brands acquired Cinnabon in 2004, Schlotzsky’s in 2006, and Moe’s Southwest Grill in 2007. Prior to his tenure at FOCUS Brands, Romaniello was President and COO of USFS. Romaniello helped grow USFS from one brand with 22 hotels in nine states to three brands and more than 500 hotels open in 50 states and five countries. Prior to joining USFS, Romaniello was a Vice President at Holiday Inn Worldwide, responsible for franchise services, support, and training for 1,700 hotels in the United States, Canada, and the Caribbean operating under the Holiday Inn and Crowne Plaza brands. He also led franchise sales and during his tenure, Holiday Inn increased its franchise sales from 60 in 1991 to 300 franchises in 1995. From 1988 to 1991, Romaniello held various positions with Days Inn of America. Romaniello received a B.A. from Tufts University.