The FCA is pleased to announce significant leadership changes with Directors Richard Thame and Amber Manning taking on the roles of Chair and Deputy Chair respectively.
This fresh leadership team, along with the appointment of Jay Westbury as the new CEO effective Monday 9 September, marks a new chapter for the FCA as it continues to support and advocate for the franchising industry.
Richard Thame brings over 20 years of executive leadership experience in franchised and national companies. His leadership roles at McDonald’s, Thrifty Car Rental, Fastway, Snap and CouriersPlease have given him a deep understanding of franchising operations, and his dedication to the sector is evident through his long-standing involvement with the FCA as the NSW Convenor of the FCA Chief Executive Syndicate. Richard is passionate about shaping the public policy landscape and believes the FCA plays a critical role in the future of the franchising sector. He has been an FCA Director since October 2020.
Amber Manning is the game changing leader of a growing global business, and an Entrepreneur who supports and mentors other entrepreneurs from all walks of life through the award winning Just Cuts franchise model that has stood the test of time after three decades of small business success. Under Amber’s leadership, Just Cuts has evolved into the largest hairdressing company in the southern hemisphere, with over 230 salons globally employing over 3,500 Stylists across 4 markets. She has been an FCA Director since November 2022.
Jay Westbury brings over two decades of experience in leading peak industry bodies, including his previous roles as CEO of Retail Drinks Australia (formerly Australian Liquor Stores Association) and the Australian Travel Industry Association (formerly Australian Federation of Travel Agents). Both sectors have close ties to franchising, giving Jay a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within this industry.