In a historic appointment, Ruth Brown, Chief Operating Officer of Home Instead, has been elected chair of the British Franchise Association. Her appointment marks only the second time a woman has held the position since the association was founded in 1977, the first being Pam Bader OBE in 1996. Brown takes over leadership from outgoing chair Paul Thompson, the founder of the children’s swimming franchise Water Babies. Her elevation highlights growing attention to diversity and inclusive leadership within the UK franchising sector.
The annual general meeting also brought several board elections and reappointments. Angie Coates of Monkey Music and Rachel Brooks from Swimtime were re-elected to the board, while Caroline Gowing, founder of Pink Spaghetti, joined as a new member. Franchisee representatives Catharine Chalton from Home Instead and Jacqui Moore from McDonald’s were also reappointed. These changes strengthen the board’s blend of franchisor and franchisee perspectives, ensuring that both operational and ownership viewpoints are represented in decision-making.
Other key appointments included Suzie McCafferty of Platinum Wave, who was re-elected to lead the Advisor and Supplier Forum. Ken Deary from Right at Home and Catharine Chalton of Home Instead were reaffirmed as franchisor and franchisee representatives on the board of the European Franchise Federation. These selections reflect continuity and experience while also welcoming fresh voices to guide strategic priorities at both national and European levels.
Ruth Brown expressed her gratitude for the appointment and her commitment to advancing the franchise business model across the UK. She emphasized the importance of advocacy, professional standards, and raising awareness of the positive impact franchising has on the economy. Pip Wilkins QFP, Chief Executive of the British Franchise Association, praised Brown’s leadership, noting her extensive sector experience and proven capacity to guide the association through its next phase of development.
Brown’s election represents a milestone for governance in franchising, underscoring the sector’s evolving focus on diversity and inclusion. With a board combining experience, fresh perspectives, and a commitment to advocacy, the BFA is positioned to support franchise growth, maintain professional standards, and navigate future challenges in the UK market.
