McGill brings 15 years of franchise development experience across 16 brands to guide Jeremiah’s next phase of national growth

ORLANDO, Fla., Aug. 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, an award-winning frozen dessert brand offering bold flavors and vibrant experiences, announces the appointment of Lisa McGill as its first Vice President of Franchise Development. In this role, McGill will lead the brand’s national franchise growth strategy, guiding expansion efforts while strengthening the systems and support that fuel franchisee success.

McGill brings more than 25 years of entrepreneurship, including personal ownership of five businesses spanning arts/education, retail and wellness. Jeremiah’s marks the 16th brand she has worked with in franchise development over a 15-year career, giving her a rare, first-hand understanding of both sides of the franchise relationship – as an operator and as a development strategist.

Known for designing development strategies that balance rapid growth with operational integrity, McGill has earned a reputation as a trusted partner to executive teams and franchise owners alike. Her approach centers on disciplined candidate selection, improved unit performance, and close collaboration with operations to build efficient systems that support long-term brand health.

“I’m thrilled to join a brand that has captured so much excitement and loyalty across its communities due to the uniqueness and exceptional quality of Jeremiah’s signature Italian Ice and Jelatis,” said Lisa McGill, Vice President of Franchise Development of Jeremiah’s Italian Ice. “Jeremiah’s has built an incredible culture rooted in family values, joy, hospitality, and franchisee partnership. I look forward to helping expand that impact into new markets while ensuring we grow with intention, supporting owners, strengthening systems, and preserving the magic that makes this brand so special.”

As Vice President of Franchise Development, McGill will focus on accelerating Jeremiah’s franchise pipeline, enhancing development processes, and identifying strategic opportunities in high-growth regions across the U.S. She will also work closely with Jeremiah’s Area Representatives and cross-functional leaders to ensure franchise owners are equipped with the tools, training, and operational support needed to thrive.

“Lisa’s depth of franchise development experience, combined with her entrepreneurial background and service-driven leadership style, make her an exceptional addition to our executive team,” said Michael Keller, President and CEO of Jeremiah’s Italian Ice. “Her strategic mindset and passion for franchisee success will play a pivotal role as we continue expanding our footprint nationwide.”

McGill resides in Ormond Beach, FL with her husband, Steven, and their two daughters, Sammy and Kas, who are also entrepreneurs.

For more information, visit jeremiahsfranchise.com and follow updates on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn.

ABOUT JEREMIAH’S ITALIAN ICE

Founded in 1996 and franchising since 2019, Jeremiah’s Italian Ice is known for its superior frozen treats, energetic brand personality and guest experience built around its motto, LIVE LIFE TO THE COOLEST®.

Jeremiah’s has earned national recognition for both innovation and franchise growth, including being named “America’s Most Unique Restaurant Menu” in the 2026 Datassential 500 Awards, securing a spot in Technomic’s list of TOP 500 U.S. Chain Restaurants, ranking No. 211 on Entrepreneur magazine’s 2026 Franchise 500® list and honored by Franchise Times as one of its ‘Fast & Serious: 40 Smart Growing Franchises’.

With 175+ locations open or in development across Florida, Arizona, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Louisiana, Colorado, Nevada, Alabama, Tennessee, and Texas, Jeremiah’s continues to expand throughout the Southern United States. For more information about Jeremiah’s franchise opportunity, visit jeremiahsfranchise.com. 

CONTACT:
Nayelis Bosa
Tidehouse
Nbosa@tidehouseagency.com

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SOURCE Jeremiah’s Italian Ice