Liane Caruso

Liane Caruso, CFE, is a seasoned marketing strategist, brand builder, and connector in the franchising industry with over 20 years of experience leading growth for multi-location and franchise brands. As the founder of helloCMO, she serves as a fractional CMO for emerging and established franchisors, delivering data-driven strategies that accelerate development, elevate brand visibility, and improve franchisee marketing performance.

Liane currently serves as the fractional CMO for IMAGE Studios, a high-growth salon suite franchise, where she leads marketing strategy across franchise development, brand positioning, and local marketing support. She also represents IMAGE Studios as the host of their upcoming podcast, showcasing thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and the evolving world of beauty, wellness, and franchising.

She is the co-founder of Franchise Assembly, a peer-driven education and event platform behind the Let’s Grow! Franchise Growth Assemblies and Franchise Marketing Live. Through these programs, she brings together executive marketers, franchise development leaders, and supplier partners to exchange insights, share what’s working, and move the industry forward. She also leads multiple peer advisory groups under Hello Mastermind, cultivating a trusted space for top-tier franchising professionals to learn and grow together.

Known for her no-fluff, real-talk approach to marketing, Liane is passionate about helping brands adapt in a tech-first world. She’s a Certified Franchise Executive (CFE), a frequent podcast host and guest, and a published contributor in industry outlets including Franchise Business Review, Elite Franchise, and 1851 Franchise.