New President of IFA Named

The International Franchise Association Board of Directors this week named Robert Cresanti president and CEO of the largest organization that represents franchisors, franchisees and suppliers.

“We could not be more pleased that Robert Cresanti has accepted this position,” said IFA Chair Melanie Bergeron, chairwoman of TWO MEN AND A TRUCK*, International, in a statement. “As IFA executive vice president of government relations and public policy and interim COO, Robert has proven experience in representing the industry during very challenging times and brings seasoned judgement and leadership to this important position. We are confident that the IFA will continue to thrive under his guidance.”

Cresanti joined IFA in 2014 from SAP America, Inc., where he served as vice president of corporate affairs and government relations since 2009. In his public service, he was confirmed by the U.

S. Senate in 2006 as under secretary for technology for the Department of Commerce, the highest-ranking U.S.

official charged specifically with representing and advocating for the United States high tech industry globally. He led multiple bilateral technology trade missions for the U.S.

government in the European Union, Asia and Russia and served as co-chair for the White House PCAST, the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology.

Cresanti takes the reins during a challenging time for the franchise industry. Moves by the National Labor Relations Board have expanded the joint-employer standard, opening companies up to increased liability. In addition, national groups are taking aim at the fast-food industry over pay for employees. Pressure is growing from several quarters to raise the wage to $15 per hour nationally.