Sweet Influencers, an AI-powered social media marketing platform, has promoted Liberty Bernal from director of business development to president and chief operating officer, the company announced. In her new role, Bernal oversees the company’s growth, operations, and brand strategy, working alongside founder Angela Olea, as Sweet Franchise reports.

Bernal brings extensive franchise industry experience to Sweet Influencers. Her background includes founding and scaling the Liberty Fitness franchise to an estimated 65 locations across 18 states within two years. She previously established several businesses including Strong Body Collective, MVRK Partners, and The Harper Consulting Group.

“Sweet Influencers immediately stood out to me because it bridges two worlds I’m passionate about: franchising and authentic marketing,” Bernal says. “What began as a focus on business development quickly evolved into a broader leadership role, where I could bring together my operational expertise, strategic vision, and deep franchising experience to help scale the company.”

Olea, former CEO and founder of the Assisted Living Locators franchise, cites Bernal’s dual experience as both a franchisor and franchisee as crucial to the company’s development.

“Her depth of experience gives her an extraordinary understanding of what it takes to build scalable systems rooted in connection and integrity,” Olea says.

Platform Focuses on Franchise-Specific Needs

Founded in 2024, Sweet Influencers develops social media marketing solutions specifically designed for small businesses, with a particular focus on the franchise sector. The Arizona-based company employs a hybrid approach that combines technology with human strategy.

Bernal emphasizes that Sweet Influencers differentiates itself by understanding franchise-specific requirements that typical influencer agencies might overlook.

“We’re built by franchisors for franchisors,” Bernal says. “We understand the operational realities, compliance requirements, and brand consistency needs that most influencer agencies overlook.”

As president and COO, Bernal outlines several priorities for the company’s growth:

• Building scalable systems
• Defining clear metrics for success
• Expanding the company’s pilot program with franchise brands
• Continuing investment in data, technology, and relationship development
• Creating education and tools for franchise brands

“We’ll position Sweet Influencers as the go-to partner for ethical, effective influencer marketing in franchising,” Bernal says. “There are no companies doing what we’re doing, and that’s exactly what makes this so exciting.”

Influencer Marketing in Franchise Context

Bernal highlights the value of influencer marketing specifically for franchise businesses, noting its effectiveness for building local trust and attracting both customers and potential franchisees.

“Done right, it humanizes the brand and amplifies credibility in a way traditional ads simply can’t,” she says.

For franchise entrepreneurs exploring influencer marketing, Bernal recommends selecting influencers who genuinely appreciate the brand and embody its values. She also advises businesses to build authentic relationships, monitor performance beyond surface-level metrics, and maintain transparency.

“Authenticity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the foundation of sustainable growth,” Bernal says.

The company’s platform aims to match franchise brands with appropriate content creators, focusing on finding the right partnerships rather than simply pursuing creators with the largest followings.

Sweet Influencers currently serves franchisors, franchisees, and agencies looking to implement location-based influencer marketing strategies.

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