Emma Grieve, Head of Franchise Relations

As our Head of Franchise Relations, Emma looks after our franchisees throughout their journey with us. Since joining the Banana Moon family in 2014, she’s seen lots of exciting changes – from growing our brand to launching our first Midnight Moon Awards and growing from 15-20 nurseries to over 50 units. 

A driving force for positive franchise–franchisee relationships, Emma is a true advocate of the Banana Moon ethos. So, naturally, the choice was clear when searching for a nursery for her own little one! 

Emma’s one of the few people with a full overview of every department, ensuring everything runs smoothly. From the moment a new franchisee joins the family, Emma is by their side – handling legal paperwork, answering questions, solving problems and being a source of constant contact and support. If you need help, advice or just a chat, Emma is just a phone call away! 

Emma believes this level of support sets Banana Moon apart, especially with the Early Years Support Officers (EYSOs) and Operations department: “What they offer the nurseries is something special!” 

She also works closely with Denfield, our marketing and data agency, on marketing and social media strategy. As well as handling the franchise agreements, she also manages third-party supplier contracts. 

Formerly running a dance academy for a local private school, Emma’s enthusiasm and personable nature soon caught the attention of parents – who just so happened to be Banana Moon’s Director, Mark, and his wife. The team invited her to interview…and the rest is history!  

Since joining us, Emma has worn many hats – first in the Early Years team, then shifting focus to compliance and branding, before becoming a go-to support in the office as the network expanded. From there, she took on the role of Director’s PA, then stepped into office management, and now, after returning from maternity leave, she’s all about franchise relations! 

Emma’s daughter attends a Banana Moon nursery, and this has only deepened her trust in the franchise. Despite doing her due diligence and exploring other nurseries, none matched the ethos and warmth she found at Banana Moon. Seeing her daughter thrive reaffirms everything she knows and loves about the brand. 

As a child, Emma dreamt of being a ballet dancer but pivoted to dance teaching instead – with ballet, tap, jazz and Zumba qualifications. Fast forward to today, and she couldn’t imagine being anywhere else than the Banana Moon family. But, in a full-circle moment, her daughter has just started ballet lessons with the very teacher who once taught Emma. 

With big plans on the horizon, Emma couldn’t be more excited about the future of the franchise. Growth, recognition and making Banana Moon the go-to name in the franchise world – she’s ready for it all!