Central Bark® Names Michele Whaley New Vice President of Marketing

Franchise marketing veteran joins leadership team to support brand and franchisees

MILWAUKEE, Oct. 23, 2025 // PRNewswire // -- Central Bark® today announced the appointment of Michele Whaley as Vice President of Marketing. In this role, Whaley will oversee brand strategy, marketing initiatives, and franchise support.

"Michele brings an exceptional track record of building franchise brands through data-driven marketing, strong collaboration and a deep understanding of the customer journey," said Bob Crawford, CEO of Central Bark. "Her leadership will play a pivotal role in amplifying our brand story, supporting franchisees and ensuring more dogs and families experience the difference of Central Bark's Whole Dog Care philosophy."

At Central Bark, Whaley will oversee marketing strategy, including brand development, digital engagement, consumer insights, and franchisee marketing support focused on customer experience and loyalty.

"Central Bark is driving innovation and growth across the dog care industry, and I'm grateful to be part of that momentum," said Whaley. "This role allows me to combine two of my greatest passions—dogs and franchise marketing—and I'm excited to help build on the brand's success."

Whaley brings more than two decades of marketing leadership experience across franchise, hospitality, and wellness industries. Most recently, she served as Vice President of Marketing for FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers, where she led marketing operations and franchise communications for more than 600 locations nationwide. She has also held executive marketing roles with The Melting Pot and Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa, with responsibilities including brand expansion, franchise engagement, and integrated marketing.

Whaley's appointment follows a period of systemwide growth and increasing customer demand for its Whole Dog Care approach.

Whaley is based in Sarasota, Florida, where she lives with her dog, Bear.

SOURCE Central Bark

###