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Grace Pineda
EVP of Global Strategic Development (Operations) at Xponential Fitness
Professional Background
Grace Pineda is a highly accomplished Franchise Development and Operations Management professional, renowned for her expertise in creating effective teams, systems, and processes that drive rapid growth and scalable success throughout the retail sector. With a career spanning over a decade, Grace has garnered extensive experience in opening new franchise locations, ultimately achieving remarkable results within a remarkably short time frame. Her leadership skills have allowed her to not only hire and direct highly capable individuals but also to empower cross-functional teams to deliver optimum, bottom-line results across various organizations.
Over the past seven years, Grace has successfully opened more than 1,200 new retail boutique fitness franchise store locations across two outstanding brands. This incredible achievement showcases her commitment to excellence and innovation in the franchise development landscape. Her ability to navigate the complexities of the industry while maintaining a focus on operational efficiency has established her as a leading figure in franchise operations and development.
Education and Achievements
Grace Pineda began her academic journey by pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management and Pre-Law at Michigan State University. This educational foundation laid the groundwork for her impressive career in franchise development, equipping her with critical thinking skills and a thorough understanding of business management principles that would serve her well in the fast-paced environments of the fitness industry and beyond.
Throughout her professional journey, Grace has held several key leadership positions in some of the most reputable organizations in the fitness and franchise sectors. As the current Executive Vice President of Global Strategic Development (Operations) at Xponential Fitness, Grace plays an instrumental role in shaping the operational strategies that drive the company’s expansion efforts on a global scale. Her responsibilities include optimizing operational frameworks, enhancing team performance, and streamlining processes to support sustainable growth.
Prior to her current role, Grace served as the Senior Vice President of Franchise Development at Club Pilates, where she was pivotal in expanding the brand's footprint and enhancing franchise support systems. Her tenure in this capacity enabled her to cultivate strong relationships with franchise partners, ensuring they received the necessary tools and guidance to thrive in their individual markets.
Prior to her impactful experience at Club Pilates, Grace held several prominent positions that contributed significantly to her expertise in franchise operations and development. As a Franchise Business Consultant at Franvest Capital Partners Inc, she provided valuable insights and strategies tailored to franchise owners seeking to optimize their business operations. Additionally, her role as Vice President of Operations at Orangetheory Fitness solidified her reputation as a results-driven leader committed to excellence and innovation.
Grace's earlier experience also includes serving as the Director of Operations at Cruise Planners/American Express Travel, where she successfully managed operational logistics, ensuring that the company delivered exceptional customer service. Additionally, her leadership in various capacities at Maritime Telecommunications Network (MTN) showcased her ability to thrive in diverse operational environments, blending her strategic thinking with practical implementation.
Notable Achievements
Grace's impressive record of achievements speaks to her dedication and professionalism in the franchise industry. With over 1,200 new retail boutique fitness locations opened under her leadership, Grace has demonstrated an unparalleled ability to translate strategic plans into actionable steps that yield tangible results.
Her strategic vision and commitment to fostering team collaboration have been integral to the success of numerous franchise operations. Grace's focus on people development and operational excellence is evident in the high-performing teams she has built and guided throughout her career.
In every organization she has been a part of, Grace has exhibited a profound understanding of the nuances of franchise development, enabling her to navigate challenges and leverage opportunities effectively. Her influence has not only contributed to the profitability of the brands she has represented, but it has also empowered franchise partners to flourish in their entrepreneurial pursuits, setting the stage for long-term success in the rapidly evolving fitness industry.
Grace Pineda is not only a leader with an impressive track record, but she is also a passionate advocate for fitness and wellness. Her contributions to the industry reflect her belief in the importance of promoting healthy lifestyles and providing individuals with the resources they need to achieve their fitness goals. Her vision for the future of franchise development is one that encompasses growth, innovation, and a focus on client satisfaction, ensuring that the brands she represents continue to thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.
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