Advantage welcomes 2 new partners, Stacie Vaillancourt and Laura Rawls

After working together at GE Healthcare, Stacie Vaillancourt and Laura Rawls realized they both shared an interest in entrepreneurship. In 2013, they decided to form a business and invest in a franchise-based fitness concept in Atlanta and across the Georgia region.  After selling their business, they both went on to hold executive positions at other companies.

Now they’re together again to enter a new phase of their careers with Advantage Performance Group, officially joining Advantage as partners on Sept. 30, 2024, Advantage President & CEO Jonathan Hodge announced today.

In just 5 years, they built their franchise business with Orangetheory Fitness to 15 open locations. In 2018, they sold it to a private equity firm and went on to become executives, Stacie remaining with the company’s new owners and Laura for another private equity firm.  This move allowed each of them to elevate their leadership and business development talents.

Stacie had earlier spent over 17 years gaining experience in business development, sales and operations in the Healthcare industry working for various software and technology companies including GE Healthcare, AllscriptsMisys, Patterson Dental and HealthStream Inc. She stayed on with the new franchise owner for another 5 years as the Chief Operating Officer and later the Chief Administrative Officer overseeing business operations, franchise compliance and HR.  She also spent one year leading operations in the southern UK.  During this period, the company grew to 142 locations with over 1,500 employees across 12 states.

Laura had earlier completed GE Healthcare’s Commercial Leadership Program before moving into a consultative sales position selling cardiovascular and radiology solutions, including medical imaging and IT solutions in Tampa, FL.  After selling the franchise business, she became an Operating Partner for a private equity firm based in Atlanta.  She held both Chief Operating Officer and Chief People Officer positions within their companies where she oversaw sales and operations, HR, client experience, recruiting, training and development and technology/systems integration.

"I am absolutely thrilled to be joining the team at Advantage Performance Group.  From the first time I learned about APG and the many incredible, customizable and engaging solutions they have to offer, I immediately wanted to be part of the team," says Laura. "My passion has always been helping others grow and become more confident individuals, which can look and feel different for each and every person. Joining the Advantage team allows me to channel that passion and I look forward to working alongside my clients as they pursue growth and development for their respective teams."

Laura, who resides in Atlanta, holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Florida Southern College, where she was captain of the women’s tennis team. When she's not working, she enjoys spending time with her husband and 2 children, traveling, playing tennis, reading, and cooking.

"I am honored to be joining the team at Advantage Performance Group.  From my first conversations with a few APG partners, I immediately knew this organization had the purpose-driven values and solutions that I was looking for in a company," says Stacie. "Joining this consulting group provides an incredible opportunity for me to channel my 27 years of business experience into helping companies develop their most valuable asset, their people.  I’m excited to partner with organizations to drive growth, enhance leadership, and unlock their full potential for long-term success."

Stacie has residences in both Tampa and Atlanta.  A native of North Carolina, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management & Marketing from North Carolina State University. Outside of work, she likes to stay active, which could be taking an Orangetheory class, running, or walking her 2 dogs.  She also enjoys spending time with family and friends, travel, and cooking.

To contact Stacie or Laura:

• Stacie Vaillancourt  
  svaillancourt@advantageperformance.com
  678.333.3752
• Laura Rawls
  lrawls@advantageperformance.com
  678.333.5026