Jim’s Group is thrilled to announce that our Chief Marketing Officer, Joel Kleber, has been named the #1 Franchise Executive in the 2024 Franchise Executive Report.
Joel’s innovative ways and commitment have been the drivers of our incredible growth and success. We are proud of him, his success, and everything he has contributed to our franchisees.
Joel Kleber’s Inspirational Journey
“Who would have thought that a kid from foster care would have become the CMO of Jim’s Group? My journey has been an example of the transformational power of opportunity.” – Joel Kleber, Jim’s Group Chief Marketing Officer
From Foster Care to CMO
Joel’s journey from foster care to CMO of Jim’s Group is truly an inspirational one.
Speaking about this, he says, “Who would have thought that a kid from foster care would have become the CMO of Jim’s Group? My journey has been an example of the transformational power of opportunity.”
While working with the Jim’s Group, Joel has seen multiple people turn their lives around, coming from minimum-wage backgrounds and transforming into successful franchisees.
He believes that his role is not just a marketing one; it’s about giving people the power to be their best.
Joel Kleber’s Impact on Jim’s Group
Exceptional Growth and Expansion
Under Joel Kleber’s leadership, there has been 7.94% net growth in Jim’s Group, and its franchise network has expanded to 5,350 units.
This is the kind of result that years ago seemed impossible, but with Joel’s strategic vision, it has now become a reality through innovative marketing efforts.
He says, “Getting to 5000 franchisees seemed like a pipedream a few years back. Now that we are here, we are focusing on getting to 6,000.”
New Zealand Expansion
In the ambitious plans for 2024, Joel is looking to have 500 franchise owners in New Zealand.
His expansionist intentions have been a testimony to his strategic planning and execution.
Innovative Social Media and Digital Strategies
Joel’s approach to social media and digital marketing had a stellar impact on the visibility and appeal of Jim’s Group.
Initiatives such as the Jim’s Group and Jim’s Mowing podcast generated over 50,000 downloads. Also, franchise buyer surveys showed that 97% of respondents said Jim’s videos were a major influence in their decision to grab the opportunity to join Jim’s Group.
Authentic Video Content
Joel’s approach has resulted in Jim’s Group going to the market today with authentic, unedited video content that is achieving massive interest from younger demographics.
This included the launch of a Jim’s Group TikTok profile, as well as securing national TV coverage on various initiatives.
His cheeky campaigns, like Jim’s Lawn Lager beer and the April Fool’s ‘Jimland’ prank, have trended on Twitter, significantly increasing reach and engagement.
YouTube: A Powerful Tool for Growth
The Jim’s Group YouTube channel became a growth powerhouse.
He grew the channel to more than 700 videos and 10,000 subscribers, with over 27,000 hours of organic watch time.
“Our YouTube channel is the number one research tool and best business development manager for the Jim’s Group,” says Joel.
Emphasizing Long-Form Content
Joel has focused on long-form content, which has been a great strategy. This year, he will place more focus on podcasts and explore new avenues on which to grow the podcast’s reach and ensure that our content continues to be entertaining and informative.
Transparency and Authenticity in Franchising
Ultimate Transparency Model
Joel’s commitment to transparency has set a new standard in franchising.
He implemented an ‘ultimate transparency’ content model, which includes full online training access and CEO engagement with audiences.
Such a move has cemented the trust in our brand and has established closer relationships with the new franchisees and founder Jim Penman.
Enhancing Franchisee Education
User-Generated Content Training
Joel has also developed a User-Generated Content (UGC) training session for new franchisees, providing ongoing UGC strategy training for existing franchisees.
The training has significantly boosted Jim’s Group franchisees’ online presence and engagement.
He admits that introducing social media use for business promotion was a challenge, but Joel’s persistence paid off. He says, “We are always trying new things and seeking feedback on how we can make our systems better. This constant improvement and willingness to fail has led to multiple initiatives that have helped facilitate our growth”.
Recognition and Awards
Top Franchise Executive 2024
Joel Kleber’s recognition as the top franchise executive for 2024 is a significant achievement.
The Franchise Executives report, sponsored by Commonwealth Bank, judged submissions based on innovation, commercial success, and positive impact in the franchise community.
Judges and Evaluation
The Top 30 Franchise Executives list was curated by a panel of industry experts, including:
- Marcel Klaassen, General Manager, Business Banking Channels, Commonwealth Bank
- Steve Plarre, CEO, Ferguson Plarre’s Bakehouses
- Aaron Smith, Founder, KX Pilates
- Kate Hopley, Franchise Manager, Schnitz
- Natalie Kington, Multi-unit Franchisee, Laser Clinics Australia
- Sarah Stowe, Editor, Franchise Executives
Gratitude and Acknowledgements
In a heartfelt message, Joel emphasized that this award is a team effort and reflective of the new heights Jim’s Group has reached in 2024.
Still couldn’t get over the surprise, Joel had to thank the judges, Jim Penman, COO Rocky Aloi, the Jim’s National team, his marketing team, and the whole Jim’s franchise family for their support and cooperation.
Conclusion
Joel Kleber’s recognition as the top franchise executive for 2024 highlights his exceptional contributions to Jim’s Group and the broader franchise community. His innovative marketing strategies, commitment to transparency, and dedication to franchisee success have propelled Jim’s Group to new heights.
As Joel continues to lead with creativity and vision, the future looks bright for Jim’s Group and its expanding network of franchisees.
Through innovative leadership, Joel further spurred growth and set the bar high for success in the franchise industry.
We look forward with great anticipation to the future with Joel at the helm.
Congratulations, Joel!!!
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