From Gas Station to Billion-Dollar CEO: Immigrant’s Journey

Iranian immigrant Shirin Behzadi arrived in the United States at 17 with no money, no family, and no connections. Working behind bulletproof glass as a gas station cashier, she held onto an unwavering belief: “I’m going to run a big company.” That seemingly impossible dream became reality when she rose to become CEO of Home Franchise Concepts, overseeing billion-dollar brands including Budget Blinds and The Maids.

From Refugee to Corporate Leader

Behzadi’s path was forged through adversity. Sent to America as a refugee during Iran’s political unrest, she navigated adulthood alone in a foreign country. These early challenges taught her to make critical decisions under pressure, viewing setbacks as opportunities to either surrender or push forward. She consistently chose perseverance.

Throughout her career, Behzadi faced numerous obstacles including recessions, self-doubt, and a life-threatening illness requiring major brain surgery during the Great Recession. The surgery left her temporarily unable to walk, but she transformed this setback into personal growth, becoming a better observer and listener.

Leadership Philosophy Rooted in Empathy

Central to Behzadi’s leadership approach is empathy—understanding people’s strengths and helping them grow in roles suited to their talents. She compares effective leadership to conducting an orchestra, noting “You don’t want a violinist to play the drums.”

After stepping down as CEO in 2019, Behzadi now focuses on advisory roles, board memberships, and sharing her experiences through her upcoming book, “The Unexpected CEO: My Journey from Gas Station Cashier to Billion-Dollar CEO.” Her story demonstrates that with hope, resilience, and determination, extraordinary success is possible regardless of humble beginnings.