Primrose Schools Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Primrose Schools has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, technology, legal, and franchise development.

Driven by a commitment to excellence, Primrose Schools provides a premier early education and child care experience, shaping young minds and supporting families across the United States with accredited private preschools.

Leadership Roles at Primrose Schools

  • Chief Executive Officer - Jo Kirchner
  • Owner & Chief Executive Officer - De Gebhardt
  • Chief Executive Officer & Owner - Nosa Akhimiona
  • Chief Executive Officer & Owner - Curt Van Emon
  • Franchisee and Chief Operating Officer - Jordan Owens
  • President - Lori Gower
  • Owner and President - David Wilson
  • Owner and President - Arshia Nizam
  • Chief Technology Officer - Avery Ma
  • Chief Legal Officer - Kristin Goran
  • Jo Kirchner - Chief Executive Officer

    Jo Kirchner, the Chief Executive Officer at Primrose Schools, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational framework for the national system of accredited private preschools. Kirchner guides the organization's expansion and commitment to delivering a premier early education and child care experience. This leadership role involves fostering innovation in curriculum development and ensuring consistent quality across all locations. Kirchner collaborates with franchise owners and key stakeholders to uphold the brand's mission of nurturing children and supporting families. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on driving sustainable growth and enhancing the educational impact of Primrose Schools nationwide. Kirchner's strategic direction ensures the company maintains its position as a leader in early childhood education, emphasizing a nurturing and engaging learning environment for every child.

    De Gebhardt - Owner & Chief Executive Officer

    De Gebhardt, the Owner & Chief Executive Officer at Primrose Schools, spearheads the strategic direction and ownership oversight for the accredited private preschools. Gebhardt drives the company's mission to provide a premier early education and child care experience, focusing on operational excellence and brand integrity. This executive position involves cultivating a strong culture of learning and development for both children and staff. Gebhardt works to ensure that each Primrose School location adheres to the highest standards of accreditation and educational quality. The Owner & Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities include identifying new growth opportunities and strengthening the franchise network. Through Gebhardt's leadership, Primrose Schools continues to expand its reach and impact across the United States, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing young minds.

    Nosa Akhimiona - Chief Executive Officer & Owner

    Nosa Akhimiona, the Chief Executive Officer & Owner at Primrose Schools, leads the strategic vision and operational management for the national network of private preschools. Akhimiona is dedicated to delivering a premier early education and child care experience, ensuring high standards of accreditation and educational programming. This executive role involves fostering a supportive environment for children, families, and franchise partners. Akhimiona focuses on driving growth and maintaining the core values of nurturing and innovation that define Primrose Schools. The Chief Executive Officer & Owner's responsibilities include overseeing strategic initiatives that enhance the learning experience and operational efficiency across all locations. Through Akhimiona's leadership, Primrose Schools strengthens its commitment to shaping young learners and providing exceptional care nationwide.

    Curt Van Emon - Chief Executive Officer & Owner

    Curt Van Emon, the Chief Executive Officer & Owner at Primrose Schools, directs the strategic growth and operational integrity of the accredited private preschool system. Van Emon champions the company's mission to provide a premier early education and child care experience, emphasizing quality and child development. This leadership position involves guiding franchise partners and ensuring consistent adherence to educational standards across the United States. Van Emon's focus includes enhancing the learning environment and expanding the reach of Primrose Schools. The Chief Executive Officer & Owner's duties encompass strategic planning, resource allocation, and fostering innovation in early childhood education. Through Curt Van Emon's guidance, Primrose Schools reinforces its commitment to nurturing children and empowering families with exceptional educational opportunities.

    Jordan Owens - Franchisee and Chief Operating Officer

    Jordan Owens, the Franchisee and Chief Operating Officer at Primrose Schools, manages the operational execution and franchise network development for the accredited private preschools. Owens ensures the delivery of a premier early education and child care experience by optimizing operational processes and supporting franchise partners across the United States. This executive position involves overseeing day-to-day operations, implementing best practices, and driving efficiency throughout the system. Jordan Owens focuses on maintaining high standards of quality and compliance, crucial for the brand's reputation and growth. The Franchisee and Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include strategic planning for operational scaling and fostering strong relationships within the franchise community. Owens's operational leadership is key to the consistent delivery of Primrose Schools' educational mission.
    Jordan Owens

    Lori Gower - President

    Lori Gower, the President at Primrose Schools, directs key strategic initiatives and operational oversight for the national network of accredited private preschools. Gower is dedicated to advancing the company's mission of providing a premier early education and child care experience for children and families across the United States. This leadership role involves fostering collaboration among departments and ensuring alignment with the overall strategic vision. Lori Gower focuses on driving operational excellence and enhancing the quality of educational programs offered. The President's responsibilities include spearheading growth strategies and maintaining the high standards that define Primrose Schools. Gower's leadership contributes significantly to the organization's success and its commitment to nurturing young learners.

    David Wilson - Owner and President

    David Wilson, the Owner and President at Primrose Schools, leads the strategic direction and operational management for the accredited private preschool system. Wilson is committed to upholding the company's mission of delivering a premier early education and child care experience, ensuring high standards of quality and child development across the United States. This executive position involves guiding franchise partners and overseeing key business functions to support sustained growth. David Wilson focuses on enhancing the educational environment and operational efficiency of each Primrose School. The Owner and President's responsibilities include strategic planning, fostering innovation, and ensuring the brand's core values are consistently represented. Wilson's leadership reinforces Primrose Schools' dedication to nurturing young minds.

    Arshia Nizam - Owner and President

    Arshia Nizam, the Owner and President at Primrose Schools, directs the strategic vision and operational framework for the national system of accredited private preschools. Nizam is dedicated to providing a premier early education and child care experience, focusing on child development and family support across the United States. This leadership role involves overseeing key business operations and ensuring adherence to the highest educational standards. Arshia Nizam's responsibilities include driving growth initiatives and fostering a culture of excellence within the franchise network. The Owner and President's focus is on strengthening the brand's impact and ensuring consistent quality in educational delivery. Nizam's strategic guidance supports Primrose Schools' commitment to nurturing young learners and empowering families.

    Avery Ma - Chief Technology Officer

    Avery Ma, the Chief Technology Officer at Primrose Schools, architects and oversees the technological infrastructure supporting the national system of accredited private preschools. Ma drives the integration of innovative digital solutions to enhance the early education and child care experience for children and families. This role involves managing all aspects of information technology, ensuring robust security, and optimizing systems for operational efficiency across the United States. The Chief Technology Officer's responsibilities include developing and implementing technology strategies that align with the company's educational mission and growth objectives. Avery Ma focuses on leveraging technology to improve communication, streamline administrative processes, and enrich the learning environment. Ma's leadership ensures Primrose Schools remains at the forefront of educational technology, providing a seamless and advanced experience.
    Kristin Goran, the Chief Legal Officer at Primrose Schools, provides comprehensive legal counsel and strategic guidance for the national system of accredited private preschools. Goran oversees all legal affairs, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations across the United States. This critical role involves managing risk, advising on corporate governance, and supporting the company's mission to deliver a premier early education and child care experience. Kristin Goran's responsibilities include contract negotiation, intellectual property protection, and litigation management. The Chief Legal Officer plays a vital part in safeguarding the company's interests and facilitating its continued growth and operational integrity. Goran's expertise ensures Primrose Schools operates within a sound legal framework, supporting its commitment to excellence.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Primrose Schools Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Primrose Schools?
    Primrose Schools is led by Jo Kirchner (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as De Gebhardt (Owner & Chief Executive Officer) and Nosa Akhimiona (Chief Executive Officer & Owner).
    Who is part of Primrose Schools’s executive team?
    The executive team of Primrose Schools includes leaders such as Jo Kirchner (Chief Executive Officer), De Gebhardt (Owner & Chief Executive Officer), Nosa Akhimiona (Chief Executive Officer & Owner) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Primrose Schools have?
    Primrose Schools has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Primrose Schools’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Primrose Schools includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Owner & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer & Owner, Chief Executive Officer & Owner, Franchisee and Chief Operating Officer.