The Longtime Small Business Advocate Actively Promotes Franchising
Matthew Gourgeot has been elected to the International Franchise Association’s Supplier Forum Advisory Board, which promotes the growth of franchising through a network of suppliers dedicated to superior service and professionalism. Gourgeot, franchise sales and operations director at Thryv Inc., has been a supplier member of the IFA since 2020.
“Franchising is a great business model for expansion. It allows many who would not be successful on their own to have a shot at entrepreneurship,” Gourgeot said. “I like being part of an association that works to protect that business model and look forward to making it easier for suppliers to be successful.”
Gourgeot has led Thryv’s franchise and multi-location division since 2020. He joined the software as a service (SaaS) provider in 2015 and was introduced to franchising the following year when he helped sign Neighborly as a marketing services client. A career-long supporter of small businesses, Gourgeot also served as director of the Thryv Small Business Foundation from 2018 to 2021. He said he’s inspired by the entrepreneurial drive to make a positive impact. Gourgeot often speaks and does media interviews about business operations and marketing best practices for franchises.
Paul Rocchio, IFA vice president of development and member services, said he’s excited about the opportunity for Gourgeot to make even greater contributions to franchising. “I look forward to having Matthew’s leadership as an advisor to this critical segment of our membership and the entire franchising community.”
Active in Franchising
In addition to the IFA’s Supplier Forum Advisory Board, Gourgeot serves on the advisory board of the Titus Center for Franchising at Palm Beach Atlantic University. A former professional golfer, Gourgeot is often seen on golf courses during breaks in franchising conferences.
About the Supplier Forum Advisory Board
The mission of the Supplier Forum is to create a network of informed suppliers that are dedicated to supporting members of the IFA and the franchising community. Terms on the advisory board are three years, and members are allowed to succeed themselves for one additional three-year term. Members have to be elected, and a nominating committee presents a slate of candidates that the Supplier Forum considers.
