This year’s annual ERA conference saw the introduction of a new award voted for by the franchise network, a kind of “Player’s Player of the year” award. This is a prestigious award as the winners are chosen by their peers. It is given in recognition of Best Practice and Excellence by their fellow franchise partners for work and services provided to their colleagues.
Mark Davis, ERA consultant since 2001 and Sue Cooke, associate since 2005 and winner of the “Project Specialist of the Year” award in 2010, were the proud joint winners of this year’s award.
How does it feel to have won ‘Franchisee’s Franchisee of the Year’?
MD: I am very honoured to have received this award from my peers within the network. It is very encouraging to know that the service I provide to my colleagues is so appreciated.
SC: It’s such an honour that my colleagues took time to vote for me. I’m honoured that the work I do is valued as highly as it appears to be.
What do you feel lead to you winning this award?
MD: I have created a data processing model that allows our associates to calculate their client’s data much quicker, allowing them to spend more time on other areas of running their own businesses. The feedback I have received for this is extremely rewarding.
SC: I complete projects for our clients whilst working closely with my colleagues to the best of my ability at all times. I strongly believe in making sure I work in the client’s best interests and adopted the philosophy that you should always treat people as you wish to be treated. This is evident in every aspect of my work.
What do you think makes a good franchise partner to the rest of the network?
MD: I think you have to be naturally versatile and adaptable. This business model means you have to be somewhat of a chameleon - one day you’re a salesperson, the next you’re a Client Relationship Manager, then a project analyst, credit controller and so on. To be a good franchisee, business partner and colleague, you have to acclimatise to these different roles.
SC: I believe it is realising that although you’re a stand alone business, we work together to provide the best solutions for our clients. Every franchisee is part of a team and to achieve the best results, financially or otherwise.
What is your role within ERA?
MD: I have a background in construction and somewhat of a specialism in UK carriage, but I work within ERA as a ‘generalist’. I have a diverse range of clients and I manage various projects. My career history has provided me with transferable skills, allowing me to be versatile in my current business.
SC: I spent a number of years as a Project Manager dealing with laboratory supplies and use this knowledge and expertise to deliver great results for clients. My main focus is Janitorial and Hygiene products, Laboratory supplies, Office supplies, Packaging, Print, Work-wear and Safety.
What are your plans for the future of your business?
MD: I’m looking forward to the continued success of my business and to provide support in data services to my colleagues. Being good at programming, I feel this is my area of expertise to add to our network.
SC: Based on receiving this award I guess I should continue doing what I have been doing for clients and colleagues alike to help me grow my business.