About
Big Sky Franchise Team
Our leadership has been helping owners franchise their businesses for more than 15 years. We believe WHY we do business is just as important as HOW and WHAT we do.
Our WHY is our purpose which is to: Inspire and Foster Greatness.
What this means is that we believe that every person has the ability to be great. Each of us has our own unique qualities, talents, skillset, and perspective and we should each be striving to maximize our ability each and every day. This is why we created Big Sky Franchise Team. To help entrepreneurs, CEO’s, and business leaders be their best by growing and expanding through franchising. As a result of our focus, effort, and determination we have won some recent awards and recognition, including the Best Franchise Consultancy and Top Franchise Supplier, in 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022.
Awards & Associations
Our Values
We have three values that guide everything we do. From our Client’s, Staff, Consultants, and Suppliers, we try to live and work by these three ideals:
Win-Win Relationships
We believe that we do business with people first and we have to go into our relationship together asking how we can serve and support you first.
Professional Excellence
We strive to be professional in all we do, from the small things, to the big things, and everything in between. Most notably, we won’t stop until we get it right.
Continuous Improvement
We are always looking for new ways to improve and innovate to provide better service and support.
Our Team
Dr. Tom DuFore
CEO
Atlanta, GA
Dr. Tom DuFore is the CEO of Big Sky Franchise Team, where he is responsible for the company strategy, vision, and growth. In his role, he also supports and consults with Big Sky Franchise Team’s Clients on their expansion and franchise efforts.
Tom’s depth and breadth of experience is expansive having personally consulted with and advised hundreds of businesses ranging from the start-ups to some of the largest companies in the world. Some of those companies include: Jamba Juice, Two Men & A Truck, Massage Envy, Ford, The Bimbo Group, Berlitz, Blimpie, L.A. Insurance, Matco Tools, Spherion Staffing, Criterium Engineers and many others. Tom has also led Big Sky Franchise Team to be an award-winning and nationally recognized company by receiving the ‘Best Franchise Consultancy in the USA’ award, a ‘Top 100 Small Business’ in the United States award, and as being recognized as a ’50 Most Innovative Companies to Watch’ award.
Tom is unique in franchising in that he has the “Franchise Trifecta” having been a franchisee, a franchisor, and a franchise supplier. As a franchisee, he led his company to be recognized as the #5 restoration contractor in the state of Georgia as well as one of his amazing team members receiving the Office Professional of the Year Award from the franchisor.
Prior to starting Big Sky Franchise Team, Tom spent more than 10 years as a Franchise Consultant working for multiple consulting companies. He also served as the Vice President of National Business & Franchise Development for the Rabine Group, a National Facilities Maintenance Construction Company with 15 business units. In his role he oversaw companywide Sales, Marketing, and National Expansion initiatives, helping the company expand from $125 million to $185 million in annual revenue in just 2 years. He helped the company become regionally and nationally recognized three consecutive years as a Crain’s Fast 50 Company, and an Inc. Magazine 500|5000 Fastest Growing Company in the United States. Tom has been a guest speaker at the International Franchise Expo, International Food Service Show, Franchise Expo South, a presenter for S.C.O.R.E., the BOSS Doctors Conference, and many other conferences and educational settings. Tom has led multiple companies, including Big Sky Franchise Team, to be nationally and/or regionally recognized in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019.
Tom believes strongly in giving back as well. He ensures that Big Sky Franchise Team donates a percentage of its revenue to charity every month. He donates his time by actively participating and supporting the FranPAC which works to protect the integrity of franchising for both franchisees and franchisors on a local and national level. Previously served on the Alumni Board of Elmhurst College and on the Board for the Schaumburg Business Association.
Dr. DuFore holds a B.S. Degree in Management from Elmhurst College, an M.B.A. degree from DePaul University’s Kellstadt Graduate School of Business and a D.B.A degree from Indiana Wesleyan University.
David T. Smith
Strategic Planning & Leadership Consultant
Atlanta, GA
David has enjoyed a progressive career in franchising that includes respected companies such as the Honey Baked Ham Company, Heavenly Ham, Rising Roll Gourmet and most recently Global Franchise Group, where as Vice President and Brand Director he led their 300+ unit Pretzelmaker brand through a turnaround strategy that resulted in its highest sales growth and EBITDA return in almost a decade. David excels at strategic and annual business planning, concept and product development, operational enhancements, and building high performing brand teams that deliver financial results. David has performed in entrepreneurial settings as an investor, leading two brands from start up through successful sale and substantial ROI. Additionally, David has navigated brand growth in large company environments and has successfully led brands through private equity relationships. David lives in the Atlanta, Georgia
Aubrey Janik
Senior Consultant
Dallas, TX
Aubrey Janik is a Senior Consultant with Big Sky Franchise Team and is an expert franchise and marketing professional. In her critical role she guides and advises entrepreneurs and new franchisors through the franchise process. Aubrey also supports the growth and development of new and emerging franchise brands. Since joining Big Sky, Aubrey has built Big Sky's FranLeadership program and Franchise Sales Training Workshop, a full-day program to teach new franchisors how to sell franchises.
Ms. Janik is also a successful entrepreneur, having built several different companies. She began her journey in franchising by becoming the youngest franchisee in a national franchise system and grew her local restaurant until an unexpected fire forced the restaurant's closure. Aubrey has also built her own car rental company and is a social media expert. She has created a collective social media following of more than 155,000 followers between YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram!
Aubrey is based in the Dallas, TX, area. Aubrey is an endurance athlete in her free time and enjoys time with her rescue dog and fiancé.
Brian Arnet
Marketing Consultant
Chicago, IL
Mr. Arnet brings three decades of experience in franchising and marketing to the Big Sky Franchise Team. Brian spent 16 years with United Airlines as an International Franchise Relations Manager and Marketing Manager. It was there that he led and helped pioneer the United Vacations program. He traveled the world extensively working with both domestic and international franchisees/licensees that were utilizing the United brand. Brian has a bachelor’s degree in Finance from Eastern Illinois University and earned his MBA from Roosevelt University.
Lindsey Gentry
Franchise Consultant
Raleigh, NC
Lindsey Gentry has a diverse background, comprised of a variety of experiences in business and leadership. Lindsey served as an Officer in the United States Army, leading Soldiers both at home and abroad. She was the Distinguished Honor Graduate at the United States Army Military Police Basic Officer Leader Course, ranking first among her peers, both Army and Marines, alike. She exited the military as a Captain and as a proud veteran. Lindsey has experience as being both a franchisee and a business founder. While a franchisee, she served as a Franchise Advisory Council President and received multiple awards, including the brands Rookie of the Year and Marketer of the Year awards. As a restaurant founder, Lindsey expanded her brand to have an impressive footprint in major markets across Texas, to include having operations in College Station, San Antonio, Austin, and San Marcos. Additionally, for over more than a decade, Lindsey has built a significant real estate portfolio and continues to place focus on its growth and development.
Lindsey has a BA in Political Science from the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire, a JD from the Syracuse University College of Law, and is near completion on a MBA from Upper Iowa University.
Joseph Lambraia
Client Development Manager
Atlanta, GA
Joseph Lambraia is the Client Development Manager with Big Sky Franchise Team. In his critical role, he is responsible for helping guide business owners and business leaders through the initial steps of franchising their business. He is also responsible for working with Big Sky Franchise Team’s clients in helping them find, screen, and qualify prospective franchisees. Prior to joining the Big Sky Franchise Team, Joseph has a background in sales and marketing having been a top performer his entire career. He started early, by helping his family business grow from a local company into an international learning and training organization. He has also worked with international mid-sized marketing and technology company based in the Atlanta area. Joseph earned his bachelor’s degree in marketing from Kennesaw State University. He currently resides in the Atlanta area.
Jennifer DuFore
Project Manager
Atlanta, GA
Ms. DuFore works as the Project Manager helping keep client projects on track. She previously worked in Student Affairs at a private liberal arts college, organizing large-scale events for the undergraduate and graduate student population. Recently, she organically grew a social media following for a small business to nearly 30,000 members in just two years, and runs several private groups which focus on personal development, personal finance, planning, and organization. Ms. DuFore holds a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Business Administration and Economics and earned her MBA from North Central College. She has completed additional graduate coursework at Loyola University Chicago.
Delasi Agbotui
Franchise Consultant
Dallas, TX
Delasi Agbotui bring years of experience in the health, wellness, and medical fields. She has over 10 + years in clinical, medical and administrative support in various health care settings such as hospitals, home health and wellness centers. She has spent the last couple of years managing Medicare compliance and regulation documents, participating in strategic planning with Business development teams and managing sales organizations in improving quality of care. Ms. Agbotui has worked with franchise Synergy Homecare and many other franchise companies. She has consulted with hundreds of companies through the franchising process during her career. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration and Management and is currently pursing advanced degrees.
Terra Argo
Technical Writer
Norman, OK
Terra is a passionate communicator and connector of people. She has a gift to connect, identify, motivate, and bring people of diverse backgrounds and interests together as a team to overcome obstacles and achieve mission objectives creatively and successfully.
Terra has 15+ years of corporate experience most recently representing one of the largest industries in Oklahoma. She is a forward thinking and passionate leader who solves problems and promotes growth and advancement. Her core values include faith, family, integrity, authenticity and people and she is all about building genuine and authentic relationships.
Donald Krause
Business Expansion Consultant
Chicago, IL
Don cut his teeth in the EOEM industry working for and servicing some of the top companies in the world. Don held positions including sales, marketing, advertising, engineering, & shop floor control. This varied & rich upbringing allowed him to open his own advertising business whose clients included some these same world leading companies.
The crash of market conditions at the end of the first decade of the 21st century opened new doors of opportunity in the business brokerage market. Don’s many skills and business knowledge are a big benefit to clients in what he terms, Business Ownership Entrance & Exit Strategies.”
“The alliance with Tom & the Big Sky Franchise Team has been a blessing through the expansion of capabilities with the very talented individuals in the organization.”
Evonne Barrier
Marketing Coordinator
Oklahoma City, OK
Evonne Barrier brings with her knowledge and experience from a multitude of industries including hospitality, management, finance, education and immigration. She currently supports Mr. DuFore as his Executive Assistant and helps Big Sky clients implement their marketing lead plans. Her care and focus is always on the client to ensure they have a wonderful experience every time. She has earned a Bachelor’s of Science from the University of Oklahoma. Her passion lies in supporting others and helping them realize their dreams.
TJ Cencula
Videographer & Editor
Chicago, IL
A graduate of Columbia College Chicago with a degree in Film/Video, TJ Cencula's passion for content creation led him to Hollywood, CA where he wrote, directed, and performed for film, television, live events, and new media. Back in his hometown of Chicago, TJ continues to produce his own new media content, as well as providing editing and post-production services.
Christine E. Wilson
Franchise Consultant
Phoenix, AZ
Christine has been in the franchise world since 2010. She has performed many different tasks in franchising, such as sales & marketing and writing operations manuals for developing new franchises. She has sold about 100 franchises and has written about 200 franchise operations manuals to date. She comes out of a teaching and publishing background. She loves to write and to edit and is founder/CEO of a small literary agent business. She also founded and ran her own publishing-services business for a number of years in working with authors of textbook manuscripts, primarily in foreign languages, to bring them to fruition. She speaks, reads, and writes French and Spanish. Her education includes a B.A., M.A., and most of the coursework for a Ph.D. She has been an entrepreneur for a long time and now works as an independent contractor primarily in the franchise world.
Artur Pawelko
Franchise Consultant
Chicago, IL
Born and raised in Chicago, IL Artur graduated from Loyola University with a BA in Entrepreneurship and Accounting. As a business development professional, Artur helps people and companies leverage their assets to grow cash flow and build long term wealth. On his free time, Artur enjoys travel, live music, and spending time with friends and family.
Crystal Oakes
Graphic Designer
Oklahoma City, OK
Crystal Oakes is an experienced graphic designer specializing in print or web media for small businesses poised for growth. Her in-depth understanding of business comes from growing up in a family of successful craftsmen, artisans and business owners. Crystal established her own business before graduating with honors from the University of Oklahoma in 2011 with a BFA degree in Visual Communications. Her professional skills also include photography, event planning, branding, social media, email marketing, on-line marketing and merchandising. She has vast experience in corporate global marketing and brand management in 22 countries in 3 continents and eight languages.
Terri Brooks
Real Estate Site Selection Specialist
Atlanta, GA
Terri leverages her past experience in project management and renovations to advocate and match businesses with the right property based on their budget, exit strategy and target audience. She thrives on matching businesses with complimentary tenant mixes to allow businesses to be competitive and thrive. She is a proud alumna of Florida A&M University and a member of the Atlanta Black Chamber of Commerce and Atlanta Commercial Board of Realtors.
Kealey Clark
Content Creator
Oklahoma City, OK
Kealey is a Content Creator with superpowers in copy writing and social media management.
There was really no other path for Kealey. She was born a creative and with a love for diversity. Being involved in building up projects & companies bigger than herself is something she is passionate about! She loves using her skills & talents so that those who love the spotlight are portrayed in their best light. She gets to do this by immersing herself in the client's brand voice and style so that the graphics and content she creates.
Our Clients
I chose Big Sky because I knew I was doing business with a human being, not a company. They understood what we were talking about and were flexible to work with us on franchising while we were also still running our business.
Peter Ackerman
Wrap City Sandwich Company
