Area 15 Ventures and Port of Subs® Propel Leadership Changes for Future Growth

Leadership Shake-Up: Area 15 Ventures and Port of Subs®

In an exciting turn of events for the franchise industry, Area 15 Ventures has revealed a series of significant leadership transitions aimed at driving growth for its portfolio company, Port of Subs®. This strategic move highlights both continuity and evolution within the organization, as Adam Contos, formerly a partner at Area 15 Ventures and interim CEO of Port of Subs, steps into the role of Managing Partner. Meanwhile, Healey Mendicino, the previous President of Port of Subs, is elevated to CEO.

A Strong Leadership Legacy

Dave Liniger, co-founder of RE/MAX and the current Chairman of Area 15 Ventures, has played a pivotal role in shaping the organization. Liniger expressed confidence in Contos’s leadership capabilities, stating, "He is the natural fit to lead Area 15 Ventures into its next chapter." This collaboration has been a hallmark of Liniger and Contos's relationship, which began years ago within RE/MAX and has transitioned into their current endeavors with Area 15 Ventures.

By maintaining an active role in strategy and focusing on family, Liniger demonstrates a new chapter in his career while ensuring that Area 15 Ventures stays on course.

Adam Contos: A Visionary Leader

Contos brings a wealth of experience, having previously achieved record growth for RE/MAX, where he led over 140,000 agents. His diverse background spans law enforcement and corporate leadership, making him a well-rounded leader prepared to navigate the complexities of franchise development. He has expressed his commitment to carrying on the vision laid out by Liniger and emphasized the importance of empowering leaders within the organization.

The new leadership structure not only solidifies Contos's role in strategic planning at Area 15 but also extends to Mendicino, who is set to invigorate Port of Subs as CEO. Her journey began in commercial real estate, where her exposure to franchising ignited her passion for building opportunities through this business model.

Healey Mendicino: Pioneering Change

Mendicino's ascent to CEO marks a pivotal moment for Port of Subs. Having joined the corporate team in 2012 and later becoming President after Area 15's acquisition last year, she has overseen a major transformation of the brand. Her leadership principles focus on people, purpose, and performance, and she has been crucial in maintaining team cohesion during this period of change.

Her track record in expanding Port of Subs demonstrates her capability to lead a brand with significant potential for growth. Under her leadership, the company has established a robust foundation for further expansion, with 18 regional developers already engaged in various states across the U.S.

Mendicino stated, "Stepping into the CEO role is an honor, and I'm fueled every day by the mentorship of Dave Liniger and Adam Contos. I'm inspired by the chance to lift people, strengthen our culture, and lead a brand that truly changes lives, one sub and one franchisee at a time."

A Bright Future Ahead

The new leadership at Area 15 Ventures and Port of Subs is a reflection of the commitment to innovation and growth in the franchise sector. As both Contos and Mendicino take on their new roles, they are poised to rejuvenate the brand and expand its reach across the nation. Franchising aficionados will no doubt keep an eye on this dynamic team as they work to build the next generation of iconic franchise brands.

For more information about these transitions and the future of Area 15 Ventures and Port of Subs, visit their respective websites at Area 15 Ventures and Port of Subs.