WASHINGTON Matthew Shay is stepping down from his post as president and chief executive of the International Franchise Association to take the helm at the National Retail Federation.
Shay will remain with the IFA until April 16. A search for his replacement is under way, an IFA spokeswoman said Wednesday.
Shay joined the IFA in 1993 and was named president in 2004 and chief executive in 2007. Under Shay’s guidance, the IFA forged relationships with representatives of the Obama administration as well as the Department of the Treasury and Small Business Association in an attempt to encourage initiatives that would improve the flow of credit to franchised businesses.
“It has been an honor for me to serve the franchise industry over the past 17 years and a privilege to have made so many close friends,” he said. “I’m proud of what we have been able to accomplish on behalf of our members, including increasing the awareness of IFA and franchising among a variety of audiences, particularly in Washington, D.C.”
Shay said that while the IFA had experienced some bumps during the recession, it now “has a solid financial foundation and membership is bouncing back strongly. ... I am confident that the progress we have made will continue under the strong team of leaders and staff guiding the organization.”
At the National Retail Federation, Shay will succeed Tracy Mullin, who is retiring after more than 30 years with the organization, including 17 as CEO.
Contact Elissa Elan at [email protected].