The Franchise Council of Australia is launching an internationally recognised professional accreditation program for franchisees and franchisors.

The Certified Franchise Executive program comes to Australia’s shores in association with the American-based Institute of Certified Franchise Executives (ICFE).

Existing and aspiring franchising professionals and franchise entrepreneurs undertaking the program will have the opportunity to reach a recognised standard of excellence within the local and international franchising community.

FCA chairman Michael Paul of Pack & Send said the already vibrant Australian franchising sector can only benefit from a stronger focus in the education space.

“This is a great opportunity to enhance what are already high standards in franchising and is a fit with the FCA mantra of constantly looking for ways to improve business performance. We see education as a critical element in lifting standards across the board,” Paul said.

While the program is familiar to franchising communities in North America, Europe and Asia, its structure has been customised for Australian candidates and will include core education units from FCA/Franchise Academy suppliers, along with international online curriculum units, and credit for sector experience and participation.

FCA deputy chair, Stephen Giles of Norton Rose believes the program is a must for franchisors, franchisees and suppliers.

“To me, it’s an absolutely essential plank in any advisor’s platform for quality service delivery to franchise businesses. I’ve seen this program from the franchisor and supplier perspective and I know it’s the best program we could bring into the Australian market,” Giles said.

The joint venture will allow those in the Australian franchise sector the opportunity to distinguish themselves as recognised professionals using the CFE post nominal title following designation.

The CFE designation will be presented annually at the FCA’s National Franchise Convention to candidates who have completed all the requirements and been approved by the ICFE Board of Governors.

Australian CFE designates will also have the opportunity to be recognised at the IFA Annual Convention during the CFE graduation program

Program participants will work towards accreditation on an individual basis and the course is expected to take between 18 and 36 months to complete. Franchisees, franchisors, and suppliers and educators actively engaged in the franchising sector are eligible for the program; costs are $495 for FCA members, and $990 for non-members