Larisa Walega CFE Ready to Lead Women's Franchise Committee

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VP of Marketing at Ziebart International Corporation, Larisa Walega, is the new Vice-Chair of the International Franchise Association’s (IFA) Women’s Franchise Committee (WFC). Walega now has an additional platform to motivate and mentor dedicated female franchisees through her new leadership role.

Walega has spent more than half of her career franchising during the last two decades. She began her career in account management jobs at some of the region’s top advertising companies before joining Ziebart in 2009. Initially hired as a Local Store Advertising and Promotions Manager to supervise a section of Ziebart’s franchised stores, Walega’s national marketing work elevated her to the position of Senior Marketing Manager, where she expanded the company through several new digital initiatives. Today, in her current job as Vice President of Marketing, she continues to drive and navigate the complete Ziebart customer journey spanning retail, franchise development, franchise owner, and employee branding.

Walega appreciates the IFA and the Women’s Franchise Committee’s confidence in her as the new Vice-Chair. She will continue to mentor and support unique female voices in the franchising industry in her new capacity. She aims to use her personal experience to share her knowledge and inspire others to grow and flourish. Working alongside a wonderful bunch of women who are so enthusiastic about their work is a dream come true.

Walega is a Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) outside of her corporate employment and recently earned a certificate in Marketing Strategy from Cornell University. She previously served on the Adrian College Alumni Board of Directors, as President of the Direct Marketing Association of Detroit, and as a member of the International Federation of Advertisers’ Marketing & Innovation Committee.

Larisa Walega will use her considerable franchising and leadership experience to help the committee strengthen the WFC’s specific programs and services for women franchise executives. Through conversation, events, and networking opportunities, the club provides encouragement and support. Members exchange contacts and brainstorm new ways to increase female representation and engagement in franchising.

Ziebart was founded in 1959 and is the global leader in detailing, coatings, and structural protection services, offering comprehensive automotive care solutions. Ziebart International Corporation operates over 400 facilities in 36 countries, with over 1,200 service centers. Entrepreneur Magazine has recognized Ziebart as a Top 500 Franchisor and a Top 200 Global Franchise as an established automotive enthusiast brand. Ziebart continues to expand through franchising, offering qualified candidates a best-in-class investment.