Ben Francis MBE is the co-founder and CEO of Gymshark, a leading fitness apparel and accessories brand. Born in the West Midlands, England, Francis has successfully grown Gymshark into a globally recognized company valued at over £1 billion, with products available in 131 countries.
Who is the CEO of Gymshark?
Ben Francis MBE, born in 1992 in the West Midlands, England, is a British businessman who has played a pivotal role in the founding and growth of Gymshark. Before establishing the fitness apparel and accessories company, Francis developed an interest in computing and started an online business selling car number plates.
He also created two fitness applications, Fat Loss Abs Guide and iPhysique, and worked as a delivery boy for Pizza Hut while attending Aston University. Francis eventually dropped out of university to focus on Gymshark full-time.
Today, as the CEO and Founder of Gymshark, he is actively involved in various aspects of the business, including supply chain management and fostering a strong community and brand culture. In recognition of his achievements, Francis was awarded an MBE for his services to the business sector.
Work History
- Gymshark - Founder: July 2012 - Present
- Gymshark - Chief Executive Officer: August 2021 - Present
- Gymshark - Chief Executive Officer: July 2012 - July 2015
- Gymshark - Chief Brand Officer: July 2015 - June 2018
- Gymshark - Chief Marketing Officer: August 2019 - July 2020
- Gymshark - Chief Product Officer: July 2020 - May 2021
- Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust - Charity Patron: June 2021 - Present
- Manière De Voir - Founder & Director: December 2013 - April 2018
Education History
Ben Francis MBE's educational background includes attending South Bromsgrove High School from 2005 to 2010, where he studied Business Studies, ICT, and English Literature. After high school, he enrolled at Aston University, where he initially pursued a degree in Business Administration and Management. Although he dropped out to focus on Gymshark, Francis later returned to Aston University and is currently working towards a Doctorate in Business Administration, with an expected completion date in April 2022.
When did Ben Francis MBE join Gymshark?
Ben Francis MBE founded Gymshark in 2012 and has been with the company ever since. He initially served as the CEO, and after holding various other positions within the company, he returned to the role of CEO in August 2021. As the founder and current CEO, Ben Francis MBE has been a part of Gymshark for nearly a decade, contributing to its growth and success in the fitness apparel industry.