Paul Davis Restoration Franchisee Reflects on Leadership, Legacy and Family Business
When Charles Horn III was a kid, his parents provided for the family through their franchise, Paul Davis Restoration of Louisville, Ky. Charles Jr. and his wife, Frankie, were among the first Paul Davis franchisees, opening for business in 1980. Today Charles Horn III — Charlie — serves as president.
Charlie hadn’t always planned on a Paul Davis Restoration career. “Like many second-generation business owners, I wanted to explore my own path early on. My original career path took me to the golf industry, working as an assistant golf professional at a local country club.”
Eventually the business tugged him back, “not just because of the opportunity, but because of the purpose behind what we do. Helping people recover from unexpected disasters is meaningful work, and having a servant’s heart, that sense of purpose drew me in.”
Charlie knew the franchise would demand strong dedication. “Growing up in a family business gave me a front-row seat to both the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship at a very young age. I saw firsthand the commitment, long hours and responsibility that came with serving customers and leading a team. My role has evolved from learning the basics and helping wherever needed to eventually taking on leadership responsibilities and, ultimately, ownership of the business. Each stage gave me a deeper appreciation for the foundation that was built before me.”
Building a Legacy
As his responsibilities increased, balancing family dynamics with business decisions was a challenge. “It requires clear communication, trust and a shared vision for the future. There can be pressure to uphold and build upon the legacy established by the previous generation — something I take very seriously. It’s hard sometimes to make decisions based on my direction versus what my dad would do.”
Establishing his own team over many years instilled the confidence to overcome second-guessing, Charlie says. “Once I felt I had ‘my group,’ it became much easier to make decisions on my own.”
With the learning curve in the rear view mirror for a long time, Charlie’s day-to-day obligations center on leadership, strategy and supporting his 45 employees. “I spend a significant amount of time working with our leadership group on business development and operations, and ensuring that we are delivering a consistent, high-quality experience to our customers. I also prioritize relationships with team members, referral partners and clients because those relationships are foundational to our success.
“For us, it’s always been about more than just the work. It’s about people, relationships and doing the right thing over the long haul. I’m honored to carry that forward and build on what was started before me. Family businesses have a unique ability to combine long-term vision with deeply rooted values.”
A third Horn generation, Charlie’s children, could take up the mantle… or not. “I do hope the legacy continues, but I also want my children to pursue their own passions and callings. More importantly, I want to instill in them the same values that built the business — hard work, integrity and a commitment to serving others.”
Feel-Good Franchise
Charles Horn III (right) says his work with Paul Davis Restoration is less of a job and more of a calling, a highly satisfying one. “The greatest rewards are seeing the impact of the business on both our customers and our team. Being able to help families and businesses recover during difficult times is incredibly fulfilling. Equally rewarding is watching our team grow, develop and succeed. It’s something I take a lot of pride in.”
Horn also reaps gratification from the family-owned franchise’s success continuing into a second generation. Few businesses can do that, he points out, and “making my dad proud of what the business that he founded has become is one of my greatest accomplishments.”
Family Businesses in Franchising
The Horn family’s story is a good example of how franchising can become a family tradition. According to the 2026 Value of Franchising report from the International Franchise Association and Oxford Economics, 12% of franchisees had a family member who owned a franchise before they became franchise owners themselves.
Family businesses are also a big part of the U.S. economy. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce reports that about 5.5 million family businesses account for 57% of U.S. GDP and 63% of the workforce. For families like the Horns, owning a franchise can create something meaningful for the next generation to build on.
Learn more about the Paul Davis Restoration franchise opportunity.
