Emma Dickison learned how to run a successful business at a young age. Despite the looming recession, her parents opened an independent hospitality business which gave her a front-row seat to the American dream. By Shelby Green
Emma Dickison learned how to run a successful business at a young age. Despite the looming recession, her parents opened an independent hospitality business which gave her a front-row seat to the American dream. Her parents’ own hard work and determination ignited that same spark in her and helped her get to where she is today.
While her parents’ business went on to be a success, they had to figure everything out on their own. Dickison often wondered what could’ve been if her parents had somebody to turn to for advice or guidance. It was those early experiences that led to her interest in franchising.
Although she planned on becoming a teacher, Dickison started working in corporate training in franchising. She worked for Blockbuster Video early on, where she wrote the original operations manual. Years later, through great opportunities and supportive mentors, she rose through the ranks to become CEO and president of Home Helpers® Home Care, a comprehensive in-home care service provider.
Dickison was no stranger to home care when she joined the company in 2007. She’s helped several family members, including her grandmother, whom she began caring for in elementary school after the elder woman suffered a series of strokes. Eventually, Dickison’s grandmother would require a wheelchair and 24/7 care. While Dickison’s family was lucky to have support from one another, they also relied on professional care.
“The experiences I’ve had with caregiving early on shaped me,” said Dickison. “Being able to leverage those experiences along with my knowledge of franchising made Home Helpers Home Care a natural fit for me. I’m really passionate about the work I get to do. The mission is very close to my heart.”
As CEO, Dickison has helped expand the company tremendously. The economy was headed toward a recession when she started, but that didn’t deter the company’s record-breaking growth. Since her arrival, the company has grown to 300-plus locations nationwide, continuously improved its growth margins and expanding to five consumer segments.
Beyond her role as CEO, she also has served on the board of directors of various industry organizations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she served as president of the Home Care Association of America Board of Directors, which grew to over 4,200 members during her tenure.
Dickison’s leadership style is built on treating others with fairness and respect. She’s guided by a lesson her father taught, which is to always work hard to do things right, but always do the right thing.
“As a leader I don’t pretend to have all the answers,” she noted. “I try to focus on building a collaborative environment where everyone can grow and thrive. It’s my duty to be a partner or mentor that can give them the support they need to succeed.”
In addition to being a successful leader, Dickison is a strong advocate for women in franchising and entrepreneurship. She currently is the chair of the Cincinnati chapter of the Women’s Franchise Network, a group that provides opportunities for learning and development to women in franchising. Grateful for the guidance she received early in her career, she is committed to paying it forward by mentoring and supporting other women who are aspiring leaders.
“If you want to lead, embrace the discomfort of bold choices and find mentors who are invested in you,” advised Dickison. “It’s easy to be average, but to reach the top, you need to be willing to take risks and put in the work.”
Shelby Green