IFA Honors Express Employment Professionals’ Susan and Ronnie Morris as 2024 Franchisees of the Year

The International Franchise Association (IFA) recognized Susan and Ronnie Morris, Express Employment Professionals franchise owners of eight offices in Tennessee, as 2024 Franchisees of the Year. The pair were honored at the 65th IFA Annual Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada, for being outstanding franchise establishment owner-operators.

“Franchisees of the Year represent the very best of franchising,” said Matthew Haller, President and CEO of the International Franchise Association. “They embody the American Dream, create economic opportunity, serve their communities and show what it means to go into business for yourself, but not by yourself. We are proud to recognize Susan and Ronnie Morris with the highest honor IFA awards to individual franchisees, and we salute their tireless efforts to lift up all those they serve.”

The Franchisee of the Year awards recognize leading franchise owners from IFA member brands whose outstanding performance and contributions help protect, enhance and promote the franchise business model. Nominated by their parent company, individuals are selected for their service to their communities, fostering a strong and vibrant workforce, opening the doors for career growth and entrepreneurship and supporting their fellow franchisees.

Susan and Ronnie left corporate life more than a decade ago to invest in a community that meant so much to them, opening their first Express office in 2010. By following the system through prosperous and challenging times, their office count expanded rapidly over the next 15 years.

The couple believes in second chances, advocating for giving job seekers another opportunity to find work, despite past mistakes, and even piloted this model to other Express offices. Their generosity also extends to several charities and organizations, including the American Cancer Society, JDRF and the local business chamber, among others.

"Known as one of the best teams at Express, the Morrises are all about moving forward and bringing others along with them,” said Bill Stoller, Express Employment International CEO. “People who join them on their journey are always grateful for the support and insight they provide. Their ability to connect with others instantly is why they're often surrounded by fellow franchisees and team members. We are incredibly proud of their achievement as Franchisees of the Year, a well-deserved honor for this amazing duo.