Our Team
Matt Ritter - Founder & CEO
Matt has spent more than 13 years leading and executing strategic public relations initiatives to help brands build awareness and grow.
Before launching Hera Group, he spent eight years at Fish 919 leading integrated marketing and franchise development PR strategies for some of the most recognized names in franchising, including Inspire Brands, Anytime Fitness, Smoothie King, Bojangles, Little Caesars, Jack in the Box, Best Western, and many others.
At Hera Group, Matt brings that expertise to franchise and multi-location brands ranging from emerging to legacy businesses. With a focus on franchise and consumer PR, Matt builds visibility, credibility and meaningful growth for his brand partners via tailored, thoughtful PR and media relations campaigns.
Matt lives in Fort Lauderdale, FL with his wife, Krystal, their daughter, Hera, and two pups, Chloe and Payton. A devoted Florida Panthers fan, he enjoys spending time outside of work at games with his family.
Lauren Simo - Partner & Managing Director
With nearly two decades of experience in public relations, Lauren brings deep expertise in media strategy and storytelling. She has worked across industries including restaurants, health and wellness, and home services, supporting emerging brands and established franchises.
Before joining Hera Group, Lauren served as Chief Communications Officer at Fish 919, where she developed consumer and franchise PR strategies that secured impactful coverage for clients in top-tier outlets such as Today, People, USA Today, The Wall Street Journal, and leading industry trades.
Lauren blends creativity with strategy, intently focused on helping clients achieve their business goals through powerful storytelling.
Lauren lives in Wesley Chapel, FL with her daughter, Cali. In her free time, she enjoys reading the next hit novel with her book club and keeping up with the latest reality TV drama.