Steve Clemente will look to drive organic growth and cross-selling opportunities.
By Andrew Carlo
Authority Brands, the home services multi-brand franchisor, has named Steve Celmente as the new president and chief operating officer of its trades brands.
The Columbia, Maryland-based company said Clemente will “spearhead initiatives to enhance operational excellence, drive organic growth, and unlock cross-selling opportunities” across Authority Brands’ four trade brands: Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, Mister Sparky Electric, and DRYmedic Restoration Services.
Clemente’s appointment follows the additions of Josh Greear as chief financial officer in September and Jay Caiafa as CEO in August.
Clemente brings over 30 years of leadership and most recently served as president of Primrose Schools, a national early childhood education and care franchise, where he led all internal operations and key strategic growth initiatives. According to Authority Brands, throughout his career, Clemente has played a pivotal role in driving success at leading organizations, from publicly-traded giants like Dick’s Sporting Goods and Target to privately held businesses such as Nebraska Book Company.
“I’m honored to join an organization as highly respected as Authority Brands and work alongside such an impressive team of franchise owners and company leaders,” said Clemente. “Throughout my career, I’ve been results-driven and focused on building strong, collaborative cultures – and that’s exactly what I’m excited to bring to the trades brands. I’m committed to empowering our trades community to deliver exceptional service and build trust with those they serve. I’m excited for the future and ready to support our franchise owners with the tools and guidance they need to succeed.”
Clemente will transition into the role as part of the planned leadership change following the retirement of current leader, Lance Sinclair, the company said.
“We’re incredibly excited to welcome Steve to the team,” said Jay Caiafa, CEO, Authority Brands. “Our trade brands represent our largest and one of our most essential segments, playing a critical role in Authority Brands’ path forward. Supporting our franchise owners and elevating the customer experience they provide is central to the promise of Authority Brands, and Steve understands this. His business acumen, operational expertise, and proven leadership make him the ideal choice to champion our franchise owners and drive continued growth across the trades. We’re energized by the direction we’re heading and look forward to the positive impact Steve will have on our business.”
Authority Brands has more than 2,700 locations along with over $2 billion in annual sales across its portfolio.
The company’s brands include America’s Swimming Pool Company, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, The Cleaning Authority, DoodyCalls, DRYmedic Restoration Services, Homewatch CareGivers, The Junkluggers, Lawn Squad, Mister Sparky Electric, Monster Tree Service, Mosquito Squad, One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning, Screenmobile, STOP Restoration, and Woofie’s.
Combined, the company has more than 2,700 franchise territories and over 1,000 franchise owners.
