The International Franchise Association (IFA) has announced the election of Clint Ehlers, a FASTSIGNS franchisee of Willow Grove and Cherry Grove, to the board of directors. Ehlers is a resident of Lower Gwynedd, PA, and will join his nine fellow directors on the board to advance and represent the interests of franchising. The new directors assumed their positions from February 1, 2022, and will serve an initial term of three years.
“The 2022 class of IFA Board members will bring new and diverse perspectives at a pivotal time for our members,” said Matt Haller, CEO and president of the IFA.
“Companies and their franchisees in the restaurant, hospitality, retail and service sectors increasingly rely upon IFA to protect, enhance and promote the franchise business model, which is the foundation of their business. The IFA Board plays an integral role in the success of our organization and serves as a voice for the franchising community. We welcome this new group and the unique contributions they bring to the table.”
“You have to be involved to affect change. Without the direct involvement and interference from members of the franchising community from franchisors to franchisees and the IFA, our industry would be merely a shell of its successful self,” said Ehlers.
“The best protection I can offer my businesses is to have a voice at the table regarding policies affecting how I operate. Most people forget that Congress works for us, and they need to hear what is important to us, both at the State and Federal level. A thriving business community is beneficial to all.”
Ehlers has always brought the voice of the franchisee to the IFA as an active member of the IFA’s Franchise Forum over the past five years. Ehlers’ involvement on the convention committee has led to more of a franchisee focus at events. He began his advocacy for the franchise model when he owned the FASTSIGNS location in Culver City and continued when he relocated to Pennsylvania. He has also testified before a legislative hearing at the state capital as well as before the House Committee on labor in Washington D.C.
“The 10 franchise professionals joining the IFA Board of Directors today represent the diversity and success of the franchise business model, and are exactly the leaders our industry needs,” said Charlie Chase, incoming chair of the IFA board of directors and president and CEO of FirstService Brands, Inc.
“IFA’s volunteer leaders play a critical role in carrying out IFA’s mission, and I am confident this new group represents the next generation of leaders our industry needs.”
The IFA board of directors voted to increase the size of the board in 2020 to guarantee diversity of thought, industry and background.
