Hand & Stone Names Former Subway Executive CEO Amid Franchise Growth

Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa

TREVOSE, PA — Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa named former Subway executive Carrie Walsh as chief executive officer effective July 1, bringing in a franchise and consumer-brand veteran as the massage and spa chain seeks to extend growth in the wellness market.

Walsh succeeds Todd Leff, who has served as interim chief executive officer and chairman. Leff will remain chairman and assist during the transition.

Hand & Stone reported that Walsh joins the company as membership levels reach record highs and systemwide sales continue to outpace the broader industry. Financial details were not disclosed.

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Walsh most recently served as interim chief executive officer of Subway, where she oversaw global development, profitability and expansion. She previously led Subway’s Europe, Middle East and Africa region, overseeing more than 6,000 franchise locations, and served as the sandwich chain’s global chief marketing officer.

Her earlier roles included senior marketing positions at Pizza Hut, PepsiCo and Michaels.

The appointment places Walsh at the helm of a franchise system competing for consumer spending tied to stress relief, wellness and personal care, categories that have remained resilient as customers prioritize routine services and membership-based offerings.

“The brand has built something truly special, with a loyal membership base, a dedicated network of franchise owners and a strong reputation as a trusted destination for relaxation,” Walsh said in a statement.

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Leff described Walsh as bringing experience in brand-building, operations and digital transformation.

Hand & Stone ranked No. 1 in the massage and spa services category in Entrepreneur’s 2026 Franchise 500 ranking, according to the company.

The Trevose-based company indicated that Walsh will focus on improving member value and service quality across its franchised and corporate-owned spas.

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