Central Bark Appoints Robert Crawford as CEO

Image of new Central Bark CEO, Robert Crawford with his dog.

We’re proud to announce that Robert W. “Bob” Crawford has been appointed as our new chief executive officer. This announcement comes as we’re experiencing record setting growth, continuous double digit revenue gains, the opening of multiple new locations, and a new strategic investment partnership with NewSpring Franchise.

Bob comes to Central Bark from his role as president and CEO of Brook Furniture Rental, a national high end / high touch service company where he oversaw a team of 400 professionals delivering furniture in 26 states. During his tenure, he took Brook from a regional player in the industry to a national leader through innovation, new service lines, expansion, and operational improvements across the system. Prior to Brook Furniture Rental, he served as the director of North American marketing for Coca-Cola’s QSR (quick service restaurant) portfolio with revenue of more than $1.9 billion. Earlier in his career, Crawford was a brand manager for the Quaker Oats Company where he held full profit and loss responsibility for a $40 million new business unit and gained management experience in the pet food and pet treats businesses.

“I am thrilled to take on this new role with Central Bark as the company has made tremendous strides in truly creating the very best in enrichment day care where dogs can get all the love, attention, and activity they need to be healthy, happy, and well-rounded members of the family,” said Crawford. “From the moment I first stepped foot inside a Central Bark, I knew right away why we are different, special, and better than anything else out there. We are poised for explosive growth in the years ahead.”

Under Bob’s leadership, we anticipate continuing our strong track record of system-wide revenue growth, innovation and industry-leading expertise while also improving our already attractive unit level economics.

“Bob brings a wealth of experience to Central Bark, from his background in managing large national corporations to scaling a regional service business, working alongside franchisees on behalf of Coca-Cola, and his tenure in the pet food and treats space,” said Chris Gaba, Central Bark co-founder and board member. “As Central Bark continues on its transformational journey, Bob’s understanding of unit level economics and how to meet customers’ needs will help solidify Central Bark as the innovative leader in dog care while driving profitability for the brand and our amazing network of franchisees.”

About Central Bark

The Central Bark franchise system and Barkley Ventures, Inc. was founded by Jackie Jordan and Chris Gaba in 2003. For 20 years, the brand has grown to nearly 35 locations across more than a dozen states. The company has hosted over two million dog visits and has led the industry in critical training, safety, and “whole dog care” initiatives. Central Bark is a VetFran participant in the International Franchise Association’s (IFA) veteran program and offers a franchise fee discount to qualifying veterans. Central Bark is also an IFA MinorityFran participant. For more information about franchising with Central Bark, visit our franchising website or call 866-799-2275.