Chrissy VanderWyde, Vice President of Franchise Relations
In the ever-evolving world of franchising, few stories stand out as powerfully as that of Chrissy VanderWyde. As Vice President of Franchise Relations at PuroClean, a leading property restoration and remediation franchise, Chrissy is not only a trailblazer but a force for change in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Her journey—one that began over three decades ago—serves as an inspiration for all, proving that passion, perseverance, and a people-first mindset can carve a path to success.
A Humble Beginning
In 1988, PuroClean was still in its infancy, not yet a franchise, when Chrissy joined as the company’s first employee—and its first female employee. At the time, she didn’t think of herself as a “first” in any sense. She was simply eager to work, to learn, and to grow. Coming from the restaurant industry, with experience at well-known franchise brands like Dairy Queen, Pizzeria Uno, and TGI Friday’s, she had already developed critical skills in teamwork, communication, and customer service. These skills would become the foundation of her decades-long career in franchising.
But her path to PuroClean wasn’t meticulously planned. She met the company’s founder through his son. The founder recognized her people skills, leading him to offer her an opportunity to join the emerging brand. That one invitation changed the trajectory of her career. She took the opportunity and ran with it, determined to make an impact. Unlike many of her peers, Chrissy took an unconventional path—she obtained her GED instead of following the traditional high school graduation route. Despite not attending college, she worked tirelessly to educate herself through hands-on experience, overcoming challenges and defying expectations to rise to the top of her field.
Forging a Career in Franchising
Chrissy quickly realized that franchising was more than just a business model—it was a gateway to entrepreneurship, financial independence, and personal fulfillment. She immersed herself in the world of franchising, learning through hands-on experience, trial and error, and an unshakable commitment to growth. Today, she proudly serves as a key leader on PuroClean’s executive team, helping to drive the success of a thriving franchise network of nearly 500 locations across North America.
Her role as Vice President of Franchise Relations is multifaceted. She ensures that PuroClean’s Franchise Owners have the support, resources, and guidance they need to succeed. But more than that, she champions diversity and inclusion, actively encouraging more women, minorities, and individuals unfamiliar with franchising to explore opportunities in the industry. “It isn’t difficult for me to share my trials and errors, to help others bypass my missteps,” Chrissy says. “I believe in paying it forward.”
Women Making Their Mark in Restoration
The restoration industry has long been perceived as male-dominated. But times are changing, and Chrissy has played a pivotal role in driving that change within PuroClean. Four years ago, the company awarded its first-ever Female Technician of the Year—an achievement that once seemed groundbreaking but is now becoming the norm. Today, more women than ever are entering the restoration field, excelling as technicians, franchise owners, and industry leaders.
Chrissy is especially proud of PuroClean’s PuroWomen’s Growth Group, an initiative designed to mentor and support women in the network. This group fosters a strong community where women at all levels—whether Franchise Owners, technicians, or Home Office team members—can collaborate, share ideas, and uplift one another. “We are creating a space where women don’t just succeed but thrive,” she says.
A Culture of Service and Support
Chrissy’s leadership is deeply rooted in values of service, teamwork, and resilience. PuroClean’s franchise model isn’t just about business; it’s about helping people in their most vulnerable moments—after fires, floods, and other property disasters. That same commitment to service extends beyond customers and into the franchise network itself.
She recalls a defining moment that exemplifies the brand’s culture: During the 9/11 attacks, PuroClean’s annual Convention was taking place. As flights were grounded and attendees were stranded, local Franchise Owners didn’t hesitate to lend their cars and resources to those in need. “That’s who we are as a brand,” Chrissy says. “We take care of one another.”
Leading by Example
Chrissy believes in leading with authenticity. She embraces collaboration, encourages innovation, and—perhaps most importantly—knows when to step back and allow others to shine. “I’ve learned to let go of the perception of control, letting others do what they think is right and seeing the process unfold,” she reflects. “It’s taking us from great to remarkable.”
Her career is a testament to the fact that success in franchising—or any industry—is not dictated by a traditional path but by passion, resilience, and an unwavering belief in people. And as more women step into leadership roles, build franchise brands, and redefine the industry, Chrissy VanderWyde stands as a beacon of what’s possible.
Her story is not just about breaking barriers; it’s about building bridges for others to cross. And for the next generation of women in franchising, she’s holding the door wide open.