Kilwins Names Kelli Schroeder Chief Development Officer

August 04, 2026 // Franchising.com // PETOSKEY, Mich. - Kilwins announced the appointment of Kelli Schroeder as chief development officer. Schroeder succeeds Ron Galbreath, who is retiring after years of dedicated leadership and service to the brand.

Schroeder brings more than 15 years of franchise development leadership experience and has helped grow franchise brands in the United States and internationally. A Certified Franchise Executive, she has built and led teams, opened new markets and supported entrepreneurs pursuing business ownership. Most recently, she served as vice president of franchise development, overseeing a portfolio of home service brands in the United States and Canada.

“Kelli brings the rare combination of proven franchise development leadership, global growth experience and the firsthand perspective of a franchise owner,” said Brian Britton, president and CEO of Kilwins. “She understands how to build high-performing teams, open new markets and support entrepreneurs through every stage of the ownership journey. We are thrilled to welcome her as we thoughtfully expand Kilwins into more communities while protecting the magic our guests and franchise owners have valued for generations.”

Her career also includes leadership roles with WellBiz Brands, Wingstop Restaurants International, Brinker International and eXp World Holdings. As a multi-unit franchisee of Miracle Method, Schroeder brings the added perspective of an owner who understands the opportunities and responsibilities of operating within a franchise system.

“Kilwins has been part of my life since childhood –spending summers with my grandparents in North Carolina which included several trips to the local store,” Schroeder said. “Now I get to help more entrepreneurs bring that same sense of warmth, tradition and joy to their own communities. I am honored to join the team and help build the next chapter of growth for a brand that means so much to so many families, including my own.”

Her appointment comes as Kilwins preserves its traditions since 1947. The brand has received recognition from USA TODAY.

Galbreath will work alongside Schroeder during a transition period to support continuity.

SOURCE Kilwins

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