The new year sees a new man at the top at Countrywide Signs after Justin Pearce was named the estate agency board management company’s new national franchise manager.

Justin brings a background tailor-made for success in his new role, having spent almost 17 years in various roles at Signs Express covering franchisee support, operations, national accounts and more. Most recently, as the franchise manager, he on-boarded new franchisees as they launched their business, providing exceptional support and guidance to network newcomers. He’d also previously run the Norwich franchise for 9 months to truly understand life as a franchisee.

He’s now taken on responsibility for the high-growth Countrywide Signs network, which will make the most of that considerable experience and skill set.

Justin said: “The signage industry is my niche, I had other opportunities but there was so much about Countrywide Signs that was relevant to my background, it’s a natural fit. It was clear there was a lot of synergy between what I was looking for and the direction the senior team here are looking to take the business in. I’m really excited about the opportunity.”

“Support is the main thing as far as I’m concerned. I enjoy getting out and seeing franchisees, interacting with the network, so I didn’t want to be office-based all the time with just phone support. Franchisees have financial commitments, they have families, and they’ve put a substantial investment into becoming part of a franchise network. They’re business owners with the stresses and strains of everyday life and as a franchisor it’s our job to support them to be successful.”

And even after only starting on 2 January, Justin’s already clear about his goals for the year ahead.

“My focus is on growth, for both individual franchisees and for us as a franchisor,” he said. “It’s about cementing the right foundations in place on all levels, growing franchisee businesses and giving them the increased value they need for the future when they’re ready to sell.”

Justin also takes over management of the brand’s national accounts, including the likes of Purplebricks, emoov and easyProperty alongside a host of high street agencies.