Having represented Scotland nationally as a gymnast, Lisa Tobias had ambitions of becoming a PE teacher, but gave up studying when she realised the future that franchising offered while working part time at Domino’s Pizza.

Having secured a bank loan at the age of just 23, she became franchisee of Domino’s in Kilmarnock and her business grew steadily.

Realising this was where her skills lay she acquired a second outlet in Ayr and now boasts a portfolio of six across Scotland.

Lisa is not only one of Domino’s youngest franchisees but the company’s most successful female in the UK and Ireland. Five of her stores hold Domino’s coveted ‘five star operational evaluation report rating and she is a previous “Gold Franny” award winner for her business acumen and success, beating off competition from Domino’s franchisees in over 65 countries. Despite the worst recession for decades, in 2010 Lisa’s business achieved like-for-like sales growth of 14.2%.

Lisa visits her stores regularly, and is a great role model for other staff, having worked at every role within Domino’s. She frequently speaks at educational events and conferences in order to inspire young people to start their own business, informing them about franchise as a route, and demonstrating that that university is not the only option available.

As a result of her success, Lisa has been chosen as a finalist in the NatWest everywoman Awards, the UK’s leading programme for championing female entrepreneurship. The awards were launched with the objective of raising the profile of women across the length and breadth of the country who not only contribute £130 billion to the UK economy, but who also create jobs, wealth and prosperity. Household names including Hilary Devey and Jo Malone MBE have been recognised, as well as dozens of extraordinary women from across the UK. By unearthing these women, role models have been created for a new generation of women.