Global Franchise 9.1

This unique and inextricably linked relationship needs to be mutually beneficial, so the IFA’s position must reflect the needs and the concerns of both parties. Ultimately, it’s my job to ensure the IFA’s resources and staff time are put to the needs of franchising – not only franchisors or franchisees. ON MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES. . . I’ll always remember testifying in Congress on behalf of the franchising community. In December 2023, I had the opportunity to sit before the U.S. House Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor and Pensions to discuss the greatest issue facing franchising: the National Labor Relations Board’s proposed joint employer rule. Though we have the privilege of taking our members to Capitol Hill on a regular basis, it was a special honor to put a spotlight on franchising before a panel of congressional members with jurisdiction over our most critical policy matter. A whole lot of preparation goes into what amounts to a couple of hours in front of those cameras and I’m thankful for the IFA team who supported me throughout that process. I also never forget the first time I came out on stage at the IFA convention after becoming the President and CEO of the Association. It’s an honor to hold this position and to get to do what I love each and every day. On a more regular basis, seeing my team members advance in their careers and step into their own limelight – that’s always rewarding to see. ON INTERNATIONAL CHALLENGES. . . Many countries are not as mature as the U.S. in terms of the number of franchises or breadth of the franchising communities. At the IFA we’re focused on telling the story of franchising and educating the public about the unique opportunity the business model provides to go into business for yourself but not by yourself. That education is happening in the U.S. and we’d like to see more of it in communities around the world as well. ON AMBITIONS AND LONG-TERM GOALS. . . Oh gosh, I think continuing to expand the international reach of the IFA. I’ve talked about really putting the “I” back into the IFA. This is not about taking over the franchising world, it’s about establishing closer relationships with our international partners and franchise associations around the globe. We’re never short of ideas at the IFA, although we’re sometimes constrained in our ability to execute them. That’s why partnerships can be a really rewarding way to get more out of what we do. One plus one can equal 11, rather than two. ON LEAVING A LEGACY. . . I think, more than anything, it’s about leaving things in an even better place than when I came in. JUDG I NG PANEL Cristina Matos CEO, Portuguese Franchise Association Representing the Portuguese Franchise Association, Christina also works with the World Franchise Council (WFC), European Franchise Federation (EFF) and Ibero-American Franchise Federation. Farrah Rose QFP, Head of International Development, The Franchising Centre A multi-award-winning franchise consultant involved in international franchising for 40 years, Farrah has worked with more than 300 top franchise brands from all around the globe. Pip Wilkins CEO, British Franchise Association With more than 20 years’ experience in the franchise sector, Pip has insight from all areas of the business and the franchise industry. She is well-known and highly regarded in franchising for her dedication and depth of knowledge. Jennifer Brandeen Chief Revenue Officer, International Franchise Association Prior to joining the IFA in 2019 Jennifer served in roles ranging from sales and marketing to finance and consulting. Most recently, she led strategy and business development for Sylvan Learning. Steven Wolfson Founder, Israel Franchise Institute Steven Wolfson is the founder of the Israel Franchise Institute (IFI). He is also chairman of the Committee for the Promotion of Franchise Regulation and Ethics for LAHAV (Israel Chamber of Independent Businesses). Sherry McNeil President & CEO, Canadian Franchise Association A franchising expert with over 25 years of experience in assisting franchisors and franchisees in their growth and success, Sherry has consistently been named one of the world's Top 100 most influential women in franchising. “You can get stuck if you create a bubble around yourself and don’t have a full appreciation for the needs of the communities who you represent, and that’s not a trap I want to fall into” GLOBAL-FRANCHISE.COM 21 AWARDS 2024