The Institute of Certified Franchise Executives (ICFE) recently recognized Kenneth Hutcheson, president of U.S. Lawns, as a Certified Franchise Executive (CFE). The institute is an affiliate of the International Franchise Association (IFA) Educational Foundation.
Hutcheson joined U.S. Lawns in 1995 and worked his way up to the position of president. Since 1995, he has helped expand the company from a 15-franchise network to more than 125 franchises in 26 states.
The certification program is designed to meet marketplace demands for motivated, experienced franchising professionals by enhancing individuals’ credibility and their grasp of franchising fundamentals and complexities. To earn the CFE designation, candidates must complete a course of study, which includes attending institute-sponsored educational seminars and workshops.
The CFE program provides candidates with expanded knowledge, industry recognition, peer-level networking and professional standing. More than 300 candidates currently are enrolled.
Franchised small businesses span 75 diverse industries and employ nearly 8 million people in the United States alone.