Shannon Wilburn joined the SMB team in September 2024 and brings with her 20+ years of experience as a small business founder, franchisor, brand ambassador, and successfully exited CEO. She will be focused on supporting franchise founders as they build and systematize their brand after launching into the franchise industry.
Shannon is a serial entrepreneur, passionate about helping others succeed through mentorship and accountability coaching. She has been featured on national programs including CNN, The Today Show, The CBS Early Show, FoxNews, Good Morning America and Entrepreneur. She serves on the Membership Committee of the International Franchise Association and received the 2020 Bonnie LeVine Award in recognition for her leadership and contributions to franchising and society. Shannon earned her Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) from the IFA and continues to maintain credentials.
Prior to joining the SMB team, Shannon co-founded Just Between Friends (JBF) Franchise System in 2003, and grew it to over 150 units in 33 states before exiting in 2022. In January of 2023 Shannon founded Shine Executive Coaching to begin coaching those emerging founders, and remains a JBF Board Member and Brand Ambassador. Shannon considers her greatest accomplishments to be within her family. Married to Mitch Wilburn for over 30 years, she is a proud mother and grandmother. Her family is her anchor and inspiration, the source of her dedication and faith-driven leadership.