News
LaunchLife International Recruits Michael Macaluso as Chief Executive Officer
Respected Franchising & Multi-Unit Leader to Join the Leading Global Education Platform
Toronto, September 15, 2025 – LaunchLife International Inc. (LLI), the leading franchisor of world-class education platforms and brands, today announced that Michael Macaluso will join the company as Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective September 15, 2025, following a comprehensive search.
With nearly two decades of franchising and platform building experience, Michael has a proven track record of growth and operational performance across multi-national platforms. Michael most recently served as EVP and Group President of the Franchise Segment at Driven Brands, a publicly traded automotive platform, where he led more than 12 franchised and corporate owned brands and 2,500+ locations.
Previously, Michael served in a range of senior leadership positions at CARSTAR, including President & Chief Operations Officer. Michael brings extensive experience in building scalable organizations built by world-class teams and franchise partners.
“I’m beyond excited to join LaunchLife International, a leading, global franchisor of education brands and platforms,” Michael said. “Our brands, Academy of Learning, Pitman Training, Engineering for Kids and School is Easy, are iconic and have a deep history of providing extensive education and training to students across many countries. I am eager to help continue the long-standing legacy of success of these brands built by Darryl & Douglas Simsovic and the entire LaunchLife team. Working alongside our franchisees, we will continue to grow globally and in the markets we currently serve, while we continue to develop industry leading education programs to help students learn and thrive.”
Michael will work closely with both Darryl and Douglas to ensure a seamless transition. Darryl and Douglas remain as significant shareholders and directors of LaunchLife with Darryl continuing as Chairman of the Board.
“I’m excited to pass the torch at LLI over to Michael. He has the skills and background to bring LLI to the next level”, said Darryl. François Fauteux, Founder and Managing Partner of Phoenix Partners, stated: “A key goal of our partnership with Darryl and Douglas was to bring a new CEO to lead the company into its next chapter. We are delighted to have accomplished this with the appointment of Michael, and we look forward to supporting the team in driving the company’s continued expansion”.
About LaunchLife International Inc.
LaunchLife International Inc. is a premier franchisor of educational brands, specializing in Post-Secondary and K-12 education. It offers programs through a combination of on-site campuses and a distinctive online integrated learning system. The company’s mission is to improve the lives of learners from early childhood education to employment by providing flexible and supportive learning environments. With over 200 locations in 14 countries, LaunchLife is committed to expanding its global presence and continues to seek opportunities for growth and innovation in the education sector.
