Twenty years ago, Kim Westhaver-Symonds joined Jani-King in search of nighttime work that would allow her to care for her young daughter, who at the time was unable to attend daycare. What began as a practical solution quickly became the foundation for a long and rewarding career in franchise ownership. In those early years, she recalls approaching every new opportunity with energy, determination, and a willingness to learn through experience.
Over the years, owning a Jani-King franchise provided the flexibility to adapt her workload to fit the changing needs of both her family and personal life. That flexibility became one of the most valuable aspects of franchise ownership, allowing her to maintain a meaningful work-life balance while continuing to grow her franchise. Through each stage of life, she was able to build a career that supported both her professional goals and her responsibilities at home.
During her two decades with Jani-King, she has witnessed significant changes within the commercial cleaning industry, including advancements in cleaning equipment, a stronger focus on workplace safety, and a growing demand for professional cleaning services, particularly throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these industry changes, what she values most has remained constant, the relationships she has built along the way. She is especially proud of maintaining long-term relationships with both customers and employees, many of whom have been with her throughout much of her journey. She also credits the Nova Scotia Regional Office for providing consistent support and encouragement over the years, describing the team as family.
When reflecting on her success, she emphasizes the importance of communication, accountability, and perseverance. Her advice to new Franchise Owners is to prioritize strong communication with clients and not be afraid to make mistakes, as growth often comes from learning through challenges. Owning her business has provided her with independence, financial stability, and the flexibility to remain present for her family, something that continues to motivate her today. While her daughter is no longer young, family remains at the center of everything she does, and she has no regrets about becoming part of the Jani-King family.
