Eric Johnson

Global Director of Franchise Programs @U.S. Department Of Commerce

Atlanta, GA, US

Lead and manage a high-performing global team of 125+ professionals, overseeing a world-class franchising practice supporting the entire franchise development lifecycle.• Develop and execute global engagement strategies for U.S. business expansion via franchising and licensing models, driving increased IP exports, signed international contracts, and royalty revenue.• Facilitate foreign direct investment from high-net-worth individuals and companies entering the U.S. franchise market.• Design and implement large-scale international trade programs and events, attracting global attendees and promoting U.S. franchise brands.• Manage and evaluate key performance indicators (KPIs) for industry team members and international staff.• Create and deliver educational programming, including franchising webinars and franchise model training, to promote and strengthen the franchising ecosystem.• Build strategic partnerships and negotiate contracts with industry associations, tradeshow organizers, and service providers to enhance programming and event success.• Author and contribute to books, articles, and publications on franchising trends and best practices.• Conceptualize and lead innovative franchise training programs (single- and multi-day) for internal staff and external clients entering the franchising and licensing sectors.• Maintain active leadership and committee participation in the International Franchise Association and other global franchise bodies.• Drive professional development initiatives for the global team, aligning annual training goals and certifications.• Serve as a featured speaker and panelist at international franchising events and conferences.Certifications & Education:• Certified Franchise Executive (CFE)• Graduate Certificates in Franchising – Georgetown University | University of Louisville

Georgetown University

Franchise Management

University of California, Berkeley

E-commerce Marketing

Georgia Southern University

Master of Public Administration, International Business; Economic Development; Organizational Development

Emory University - Goizueta Business School

Executive Education

Kennesaw State University

PHR - Human Resources Certification, Human Resources Development

Troy University

B.S. in Business Management & Industrial Psychology, Business Management; Organizational Development; Human Resources

University of California, Davis

Executive Education, Wine Executive Education

Thunderbird School of Global Management

Global Brand Management

University of Louisville

Franchise Management , Franchising