Massage Envy hired Erich Melsheimer as chief development officer. He was Planet Fitness’ vice president of global real estate.

At Planet Fitness, Melsheimer oversaw the company’s franchise real estate in the United States, Canada, Panama, Mexico, Australia, and New Zealand, as well as emerging market development. His team was directly responsible for administrating franchisee Area Development Agreements, managing ownership transfers and reviewing and approving new locations. Melsheimer worked with franchisees to develop analytic tools that helped formulate and refine market development plans in the U.S. and abroad.

“Erich is a visionary leader who will help strengthen and expand Massage Envy’s national footprint,” said Beth Stiller, Massage Envy CEO. “His established record of driving sustainable growth while strengthening relationships with franchisees and the real estate development community will help propel the brand forward.”

Melsheimer previously worked at Gap, Inc. for twelve years overseeing the development of the company’s brands in the Southeast U.S., including flagship projects and international strategy assignments. He has also held real estate and asset management roles with The Wendy’s Company and Yum! Brands and served as a consultant for Darden Restaurants.