Kiwi franchise lawyer graduates in USA

Auckland franchise lawyer Stewart Germann  graduated as a Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) at the IFA convention at Orlando in February 2020.  CFE is the only internationally-recognised professional accreditation programme for franchise executives. ‘It’s like a degree in franchising,’ says Stewart, who is the first person in New Zealand to qualify.

The CFE designation recognises those who have demonstrated their knowledge and achievements and have completed the course of study and requirements established by the Institute of Certified Franchise Executives (ICFE).  2020 marked a record year of 196 graduates, who received their CFE pin from Harvey Homsey and James Mowery, the Chair and Vice-Chair of the ICFE Board of Governors.  

Stewart completed the CFE through the Franchise Council of Australia (FCA) who are licensed by the ICFE Board of Governors to conduct CFE in Australia.

Stewart is a great believer in education and raising the bar at all times.  ‘There is a wealth of franchising experience in New Zealand and many of these people should be encouraged to complete the CFE course,’ he says.  Stewart understands that the FCA may informally appoint him as CFE Ambassador for New Zealand to promote the CFE course here.