Spotlight: Navy Veteran Franchisee Mark Hoff

November 2025 - Mark Hoff knows what it means to lead with discipline, purpose, and integrity. A Naval Academy graduate and former Naval Officer, he spent five years in the military developing core leadership skills, learning to make fact-based decisions under pressure, and building the strategic mindset that would guide his entire career.

After leaving active duty, Mark built a successful 25-year career in medical device design before taking early retirement. Yet even with a strong professional legacy behind him, one goal remained. He had always wanted to run his own business. Sir Grout gave him that opportunity.

Today, Mark owns and operates Sir Grout of Santa Rosa, California, where he is applying the same disciplined work ethic and commitment to excellence he developed in the Navy. His journey is a powerful example of how military experience translates directly into franchise ownership, business leadership, and serving a local community with honor.

Below, Mark shares more about his path from the Navy to entrepreneurship and why Sir Grout was the right fit for his next chapter.

Tell us about your journey as a Veteran.

"I'm a Navy veteran and Naval Academy alumnus. I served as a Naval Officer for five years before leaving the military and getting married. Afterward, I spent 25 years in medical device design. I took early retirement but always had the desire to run my own business. Sir Grout gave me that opportunity."

What led you to franchise with Sir Grout?

"The Navy taught me how to follow a process and pay attention to detail. The Sir Grout system rewards those skills. There are few businesses like Sir Grout, and I was drawn to the combination of strategic vision and leadership it requires. Transitioning from a W-2 employee to running my own business was a big step and a different level of risk, but one I was ready to take."

What military skills have been useful in franchise ownership?

"Leadership, remaining calm under pressure, reading people, and making fact-based decisions. Also, technical skills I inherited from my dad help me make sound judgment calls. The combination of strategic vision and discipline from my military experience prepared me well for franchise ownership."

What advice would you give to another veteran who is considering franchising?

"Do it. Veterans are used to grinding until they achieve results. Success doesn't happen overnight, but franchising is a great way to parlay military skills into business. Do your homework and interview as many veteran business owners as possible to reduce uncertainty."

Mark's story is a clear example of how veterans excel with Sir Grout. The franchise model rewards discipline, process-driven execution, and a commitment to delivering honorable service to every customer.

We are proud to have Mark representing the Sir Grout brand in Santa Rosa. Thank you for your service, Mark.

Explore Franchise Opportunities for Veterans: Discover how your military experience can create a strong foundation for franchise ownership.