"Having Hiline's HR expertise has been a lifesaver. Jason is always there every step of the way to consult with and guide us. He stays on top of the newest rules and regulations, which makes it easier for us to focus on running our business while knowing we're fully compliant."
Finances Before
Finances With Hiline
About Orangetheory® Fitness
Orangetheory Fitness is a boutique group fitness studio franchise that combines strength, endurance, and power in every workout. Under Heather Fuleihan and Vanessa Palmer’s leadership, this group franchises sites across three upstate New York locations – two in the Syracuse area and one in Ithaca. Their signature 60-minute classes are led by certified coaches and utilize state-of-the-art equipment including treadmills, water rowers, and free weight stations. What makes Orangetheory unique is their heart rate-based training approach, where members wear heart rate monitors during class to track their performance in real time.
The Challenge
As growing multi-location fitness franchisees, Heather and Vanessa’s locations faced a common dilemma: they needed comprehensive HR support but couldn't justify the expense of a full-time HR professional. With three locations and dozens of employees, they required expert guidance on everything from routine HR matters to complex compliance issues and a single platform to bring all of their people operations together. While Heather's background as a CPA gave her strong financial acumen, HR presented a different challenge altogether.
The Solution
Hiline provided these franchisees with comprehensive HR consulting services at a fraction of the cost of a full-time HR employee. Their solution included:
1. Regulatory Compliance Management:
Proactive monitoring and implementation of state and federal regulations, ensuring the business stays ahead of changes in employment law, minimum wage requirements, and compliance obligations.
2. Employee Relations Support:
Comprehensive management of complex HR situations, from maternity leave administration to wage garnishments and retirement planning. The team handles all documentation, record-keeping, filing, and communication, saving hours of research and administrative time.
3. Crisis Management:
Strategic guidance during challenging periods, including the complete management of pandemic-related workforce changes. This included handling unemployment claims, managing layoff procedures, and developing return-to-work protocols.
4. Audit Defense:
Expert representation during regulatory reviews, including full in-person support during a Department of Labor audit. Hiline's team managed documentation, attended in-person meetings, and ensured full compliance with all requirements.
The Results
Working with Hiline transformed how Heather and Vanessa as owner/operators manage their HR operations. Heather shares:
"Having Jason as our HR consultant is like having our own in-house HR department, but at a price point that makes sense for a small business. He and his team are always there, every step of the way."
The partnership with Hiline has delivered:
- Significant time savings on HR administration
- A single platform for all HR-related operations and documentation
- Perfect compliance record, including successful DOL audit
- Expert handling of complex situations like pandemic layoffs
- Professional support for employee matters
- Peace of mind with expert HR guidance
How Hiline Can Support Your Business
If you're a business owner who needs professional HR support but can't justify a full-time salary, Hiline offers the perfect solution. Our experienced HR consultants provide all the expertise of an in-house HR department at a fraction of the cost. We customize our services to match your specific needs while ensuring you maintain full compliance with all regulations.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you manage your HR needs more effectively and affordably.
