Robert Cresanti has been promoted to president and CEO of the International Franchise Association, after serving for a year as its executive vice president of government relations and public policy, the trade association said Tuesday.
He replaces Steve Caldeira, who stepped down earlier this month. Cresanti was named interim chief operating officer at the time.
“We could not be more pleased that Robert Cresanti has accepted this position,” IFA chairman Melanie Bergeron said in a press release. “As IFA executive vice president of public policy and interim COO, Robert has proven experience in representing the industry during very challenging times and brings seasoned judgment and leadership to this important position. We are confident that the IFA will continue to thrive under his guidance.”
Previously, Cresanti was vice president of corporate affairs and government relations for business software company SAP America Inc., from 2009 to 2014.
He also was undersecretary for technology for the United States Department of Commerce from 2006 to 2007, advocating globally for the American high-tech industry. He was vice president of global public policy for the Business Software Alliance from 2001 to 2006.
“I am humbled and honored by the [IFA board of directors’] trust in me and look forward to continuing the great work the IFA team has done in protecting, promoting and enhancing franchising,” Cresanti said.
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