Longtime Dance Studio Franchisee Now Serves as Operations Vice President
Longtime franchisee and former area director Kimberley Carroll now serves as vice president of operations for Arthur Murray Dance Studios. Carroll joins the leadership team after decades as an Arthur Murray franchisee, having opened studios in New York, Florida and Arizona. As area director, she oversaw the dance studio franchise’s growth from six locations to 33. In her role as vice president of operations, Carroll drives operational consistency, helps studios increase performance and ensures a high-quality student experience.
“As a franchisee, I opened a lot of studios and developed a lot of other entrepreneurs. I did this for 40 years. During that time, I experienced every failure and success possible. I’ve overcome what seemed impossible, and I’ve accomplished everything I set out to do,” Carroll said. “Taking this 100-plus-year-old company and bringing its rich history into the future excites me. The possibilities and opportunities are endless.”
Carroll said Arthur Murray will continue as an industry leader by innovating on the dance floor and educating franchisees. Making decisions focused on franchise owner success is key to responsible growth, she added. “Having a vetting system that supports our culture, and a support system ensures their long-term growth and success.”
Gary Edwards, CEO of Arthur Murray Dance Studios, said the recent leadership team additions of Carroll and Tony Padulo as chief development officer will better position the brand for its next stage of growth. “Dance has more global reach today than ever before. As such, we’re building a leadership team dedicated to continuing the Arthur Murray legacy, while driving strategic evolution, operational excellence and global growth, setting the stage for an exciting new era for Arthur Murray and the communities we serve,” Edwards said.
Professional and Personal Highlights
Aside from her franchising achievements, Carroll said she is proudest of the way she raised her daughter while balancing her career. “I homeschooled her for most of her life and raised her on my own terms with my own hands. This was a big goal for me: to have an unlimited career without compromising myself or the type of mother I wanted to be. She was raised inside of my franchises and schooled in museums, by raising livestock and by opening pop-up businesses during my travels as a consultant.”
About Arthur Murray Dance Studios
Arthur Murray Dance Studios provides individual and group lessons for dancers of all ages and experience levels. These lessons are centered around social dancing and the World Famous Arthur Murray teaching method, offering a fun, comfortable environment for all students learning ballroom dance or preparing for a wedding or competition.
