DAVID HILLMAN
Senior Partner, 41 years of franchise experience
David’s background of franchising spans several decades. A graduate of Baylor University, Dave had a passion for business from the beginning. He started a successful television magazine company and created 39 franchises before selling the entire system in 1977. With the franchise laws being fully enacted in 1979, he founded Franchising Unlimited in October 1979 and holds the title of Senior Partner.
Dave believes Confucius said it best: Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life. When he decided to open the doors to Franchising Unlimited, he had no idea that 41 years later he would still be having just as much fun. Continually meeting new business owners with his same passion has been the most rewarding part of the adventure.
“You can’t steal second base and keep your foot on first.”
KYLE HILLMAN, MBA, CFE
Consultant, Compliance Regulation
Kyle has been involved with Franchising Unlimited for 14 years but learned the business at a very young age. As the son of Dave, he would regularly absorb facts and information about the business even before entering high school. Kyle studied International Business and Economics at Mount Union College and furthered his studies with a Master of Business Administration degree from Youngstown State University.
Kyle assists clients of Franchising Unlimited with his vast experience in the industry providing them with peace of mind that they will be in compliance with franchise regulations.
“The business world is complex, ever-changing and always evolving. This can be scary for some, but passionately exciting for others – consider me with the others.”
MELISSA GAHAGAN
Executive Assistant
Melissa has been an asset to Franchising Unlimited for a decade and has always been intrigued about the inner workings of business. She is the first face you see when walking into the office and the first voice heard on the telephone.
All day-to-day procedures are planned, coordinated and executed through Melissa. In addition to keeping the office running smoothly and efficiently, she corresponds with all clients to ensure proper timeliness and accuracy of documentation is being fulfilled. Melissa maintains excellent relationships with clients – contacting each and every one of them frequently and with enthusiasm.
“Working with clients through all stages of the franchising process is exciting and rewarding; I thoroughly enjoy seeing the franchise model come to life.”
GARY SMITH
Director, New Client Development
Gary has an extensive history of over 30 years in sales and business development, starting with a B.S. in Business Administration majoring in Finance from The Ohio State University. He has worked in a wide variety of small and medium sized businesses ranging from manufacturing to agriculture, helping them to compete effectively with larger corporations and to remain profitable.
“My passion is being a front-line spokesperson for small businesses, helping them to grow and succeed in the face of larger competition.”
DR. CHARLES VERBANIC D.D.S., JD
Director, Human Resources
Charles brings boundless energy and a searching mind to Franchising Unlimited. He is a man who hasn’t sat still since he learned to walk. Charles has built a broad portfolio of successful businesses across several industries from real estate to family dentistry to dental technology and education.
Charles has obtained numerous degrees including both Doctor of Dental Surgery and Bachelor of Arts from The Ohio State University, Paralegal Certificate from Kaplan University, University of Akron School of Law, and most currently American Heritage University of Southern California School of Law.
His real estate business experience includes an extremely high level of proficiency in the commercial sector. Educationally, he has authored written education materials, designed lectures, oversaw state licensing and structured workplace placement for graduating students in the field of dental assisting. Further, Charles recognized the lack of a satellite medical facility from a major hospital in his hometown and took the task upon himself to treat patients in the area. He purchased suitable real estate a built a state of the art facility to treat any urgent care needs.
With his extensive background, Charles is an invaluable asset to Franchising Unlimited, and clients continually benefit from his vast knowledge base.
LOUIS MINUTELLO
Director, Foodservice Sector
Louis joins Franchising Unlimited and brings with him a wealth of foodservice knowledge. He received his formal education from Pennsylvania State University where he obtained a Bachelor’s of Science in Food Service and Housing Administration.
Among Lou’s valuable skills, he has a key focus on maximizing returns on investments, strategic planning, tactical planning and execution, leadership training, business campaigns, as well as growth and expansion in the foodservice industry.
Lou assists clients in purchasing, inventory control of materials and supplies, cost control, and maintaining quality of service.