daryl hurst

President & Chief Operating Officer, Sola

Daryl Hurst is the President and Chief Operating Officer at Sola Salons, bringing over 20 years of experience in operations leadership with a focus on scalable systems and process optimization. Renowned for his strategic mindset and operational expertise, Daryl has a proven track record in building high-performing teams that execute with precision. His leadership philosophy is rooted in creating a culture of accountability, customer-centricity, and continuous improvement—all vital components in his pursuit of operational excellence at Sola Salons.

Daryl previously held multiple executive roles with Maaco Corporation, part of Driven Brands within Roark Capital’s portfolio, including President and Chief Operating Officer of the iconic auto painting and collision repair franchise. In these roles, he implemented efficient systems and processes that enhanced operational performance across over 400 franchise locations, contributing to substantial brand growth. His earlier career at Outback Steakhouse and Bloomin’ Brands also highlighted his dedication to rigorous operational standards and consistent brand experiences. During his time there, he led the rollout of new products, processes, and franchisee training programs, ensuring each initiative was scalable and impactful.

A continuous learner and advocate for innovation, Daryl is also an Agile Ambassador and has completed the Executive Leadership Program along with Ken Blanchard’s Situational Leadership training. This commitment to development has empowered him to adapt his leadership style to meet the evolving needs of his teams and the franchise network. Known for his curiosity and drive for improvement, Daryl approaches each challenge with a blend of analytical rigor and innovative thinking. Based near Nashville with his family, he will be working remotely and plans to bring his expertise to Sola Salons through frequent collaboration, helping to set new standards for growth and efficiency in support of the brand’s expanding community.