Going into 2023, United Fitness Partners announced big leadership changes to its team. On Dec. 31, Trey Owen, previous CEO for United FP, announced he was moving into the role of founder and member of the Board of Directors. Owen has worked with United FP since 2010 and helped the company open its first Planet Fitness^® location. Owen also has been involved with the franchisee community, serving as the franchisee association’s inaugural president from 2014-2017.

Additionally, President and Chief Operating Officer Cullen Barbato stepped up as United FP’s CEO. He has been with UFP since 2019 and has served in several senior leadership roles on the company’s executive team. Barbato stays busy as he is also the committee chair for the PFIFC Vendor Management Committee and a member of the Store Development Committee.

Other promotions included Mike Gilb, who was promoted from director of financial planning and analysis to CFO. Additionally, Milli Hawkins was promoted to senior vice president of strategy and growth from the VP role; Desiree Bennett was named chief people officer from VP of human resources; Patricia Bazan was promoted to SVP of accounting from VP; and Travis Satterthwaite was promoted to senior director of strategic planning from director of business strategy.

The leadership promotions were effective Jan. 1, allowing these employees to begin the new year in an exciting new role!