Kilwins Promotes Brad Williams and Joe Audia to Chief Operating Officer Roles

Two longtime operations leaders elevated to COO roles across Kilwins' franchise system and its dedicated supply company as the iconic confectionery brand continues nationwide growth

PETOSKEY, Mich., Nov. 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Kilwins, the iconic confectionery franchise known for its hand-crafted chocolates, Original Recipe Ice Cream, fudge and other sweet treats, announced today two executive promotions. Brad Williams has been named chief operating officer of Kilwins, and Joe Audia has been named chief operating officer of Kilwins Quality Confections, the brand's dedicated vendor that supplies Kilwins retail stores with supplies they rely on every day. Together, the promotions strengthen leadership across both the franchise system and the supply operation as Kilwins continues to expand its nationwide footprint.

Williams, who joined Kilwins in May 2025 as vice president of operations and training, oversees the brand's operational strategy. With more than 30 years of franchise leadership experience, he has built a career focused on strengthening franchise operations, improving the guest experience and creating systems that support sustainable growth. Since joining Kilwins, he has worked closely with the brand's franchisees and leadership team to advance operational excellence and training across the system.

Audia brings 19 years of experience with Kilwins, where he has overseen customer service, warehouse and distribution, purchasing and manufacturing operations for Kilwins Quality Confections. As COO, he leads the operation that keeps Kilwins stores across the country stocked with the products and supplies they rely on every day.

"Brad and Joe have each made a tremendous impact on Kilwins, and these promotions are a natural next step for both of them," said Brian Britton, president and CEO of Kilwins. "Brad understands that strong operations begin with strong franchisee relationships and a commitment to the guest experience. Joe has spent nearly two decades making sure our stores have what they need to deliver that experience, and his deep knowledge of our supply chain and manufacturing is invaluable. As we continue to grow, their leadership will help ensure we are giving our franchisees the tools, training, products and support they need to succeed while protecting the experience that has made Kilwins special for nearly 80 years."

Prior to joining Kilwins, Williams held senior leadership roles with some of the country's most recognized franchise brands, including Taco Bell, The Krystal Company, and Wingstops. Most recently, he led operations across 580 Checkers & Rally's franchise locations nationwide. Throughout his career, Williams has developed and implemented systems designed to enhance franchisee support, improve customer satisfaction and drive business performance.

"I'm honored to step into this role and continue working alongside our franchisees and the incredible team at Kilwins," said Williams. "Over the past year, I've had the opportunity to see firsthand what makes this brand so special, from the people behind our stores to the traditions our guests have loved for generations. As we look ahead, my focus will remain on operational excellence, franchisee success and ensuring we grow without losing the quality and experience that define Kilwins."

Williams' leadership philosophy is rooted in servant leadership and shaped by more than three decades of experience building and supporting high-performing teams. Outside of his professional career, he is an Army National Guard veteran, cancer survivor and tornado survivor, experiences that have influenced his approach to resilience, humility and purpose.

Before joining Kilwins, Audia spent 24 years in the automotive industry, beginning his career in tooling engineering and advancing through project management and operations management roles. He holds degrees in physics and mechanical engineering, as well as an MBA.

"Kilwins Quality Confections exists to make sure every Kilwins store has what it needs to serve its guests, and I've been proud to be part of that work for nearly two decades," said Audia. "I'm grateful for the opportunity to lead this team as we support the brand's next chapter of growth and continue delivering the quality our franchisees and guests expect."

The promotions come as Kilwins continues to expand in markets across the country. With nearly 200 locations nationwide, the brand is building on almost eight decades of heritage while pursuing strategic franchise growth and bringing its signature in-store experience to new communities.

For more information about Kilwins, visit www.kilwins.com. To learn more about franchising opportunities, visit www.kilwinsfranchise.com.

About Kilwins

Kilwins is renowned for its hand-crafted chocolates, creamy fudge, caramel apples, brittle, and super-premium ice cream. The brand has been making people happy since 1947, providing guests with warm, friendly service and a nostalgic confectionery experience. In each store, guests can enjoy watching fudge being paddled on a marble table and caramel cooking in a copper kettle, all in an open kitchen setting. The growing brand has nearly 200 locations nationwide, with new stores continuing to open in markets across the country. Kilwins has earned industry recognition, ranking No. 1 in the candy, ice cream and frozen desserts category in Entrepreneur magazine's Franchise 500® for 10 consecutive years and being named USA TODAY's 2026 No. 1 Best Dessert & Treat Chain and Newsweek's 2026 No. 1 Best Ice Cream Chain. Kilwins is truly "Sweet in every Sense since 1947®." For more information about Kilwins, visit https://www.kilwins.com. To learn more about franchising opportunities, visit https://www.kilwinsfranchise.com.

SOURCE Kilwins