Kia Lyons

About Kia Lyons

I’m an operations leader and former multi‑unit franchise owner with 10+ years running…

Experience

1. Entrepreneur

   Popbar

   Jan 2015 — Present · Charlotte, NC, US

   Owned and operated a successful Popbar franchise in Charlotte for 10 years. Managed full lifecycle of franchise operations, including store build-out, team leadership, marketing strategy, and community engagement. Developed systems that contributed to long-term success in a competitive food service market.Key Responsibilities & Accomplishments:Franchise Operations:Launched and led all operations as a single-unit franchisee under a national dessert brand. Maintained brand standards and contributed feedback to enhance system-wide performance.Business Development:Oversaw site selection support, construction coordination, and pre-opening readiness. Successfully launched the store and built a strong local presence.Team Leadership:Recruited and trained employees across all roles. Created SOPs and onboarding tools to ensure service consistency and operational efficiency.Marketing & Community Engagement:Led local marketing efforts including seasonal campaigns, influencer partnerships, and event promotions. Grew the store’s Instagram following to over 14K Charlotte-area food lovers.Event Planning & Catering Expansion:Built and managed a profitable mobile catering program serving corporate clients, schools, and public events across the region.Financial & Operational Management:Managed budgets, inventory, scheduling, and vendor relationships. Monitored sales trends to drive performance and strategic decision-making.Customer Experience:Maintained high customer satisfaction through personalized service, quality control, and consistent community presence.

Education

• Alabama School of Fine Arts

  High School Diploma, Dance Major

  1994 — 2000

• The University of Alabama

  BS, Business Management; Minor in Biology

  2000 — 2005

Skills

• Microsoft Office
• Facebook
• Project Planning
• Healthcare
• Research
• Event Management
• Editing
• Fundraising
• Customer Service
• Supervisory Skills
• Social Media
• Quantitative Analytics
• Clinical Research
• Program Development
• Management
• Team Building
• Community Outreach
• Program Management
• Leadership
• Data Entry
• Higher Education
• Social Networking
• Microsoft Word
• Outlook
• Teamwork
• Recruiting
• Teaching
• Time Management
• Social Media Marketing
• Microsoft Excel
• Powerpoint
• Training