Every great business story begins with a decision to transform knowledge into opportunity. Eric Cook, WSI Digital Marketing Consultant, has been named the 2024 Franchisee of the Year by the International Franchise Association (IFA), the highest honor awarded to individual franchise owners. This prestigious recognition celebrates his entrepreneurial success, leadership, and unwavering commitment to his clients and community.
With a strong foundation in banking, Eric channeled his expertise into building a thriving digital marketing agency. For years, he has been helping businesses—particularly in the financial services and banking sector—navigate the digital landscape with strategic digital marketing solutions. His journey highlights what makes the WSI Franchise model unique—it empowers professionals to build a business rooted in their industry expertise while tapping into a proven system, innovative marketing solutions, and a collaborative global network.
Discover the full story here, or continue reading to see how Eric’s success reflects the potential of the WSI franchise model and what it could mean for your own business journey.
WSI, the world’s largest digital marketing network, is proud to announce that Eric Cook, a longstanding WSI Consultant, has been named a 2024 Franchisee of the Year by the International Franchise Association (IFA). Eric was recognized at the IFA’s 65th Annual Convention in Las Vegas for his outstanding leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and unwavering commitment to his business and community.
The IFA Franchisee of the Year Award is the organization’s highest honor for individual franchise owners, celebrating those who embody the best of franchising through innovation, mentorship, and community engagement. Eric was nominated for his exemplary efforts in fostering a culture of excellence within his agency and across our WSI network, as well as his dedication to supporting his clients, particularly those in the U.S. community banking and financial services industry
“Eric's dedication to delivering exceptional digital solutions has created remarkable success stories for his clients,” said Valerie Brown-Dufour, President of WSI. “His unwavering commitment to client success and excellence in digital marketing has earned him this well-deserved IFA recognition. Beyond his impact on clients, Eric has also been a dedicated contributor to the WSI brand and network, sharing his expertise and helping strengthen our global community. We're thrilled to see his outstanding work and positive influence acknowledged at this global level.”
With a career that spans over a decade in the WSI network, Eric’s agency specializes in delivering innovative digital marketing strategies that help businesses tailored to the unique needs of community banks and financial professionals to achieve measurable success in today’s digital landscape. Beyond his professional achievements, Eric actively mentors other WSI Consultants, shares his expertise across the WSI network, and contributes to community-building initiatives.
“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from the IFA,” said Eric of his award. “This award is a reflection of the incredible support I’ve received from my team, the WSI network, and my family. Franchising has provided me with the platform to not only build a successful business but also make a meaningful difference in our clients in the banking and financial services industry. Given my prior 15-year career as a community banker before joining WSI in 2007, providing our clients and industry connections over 30 years of combined digital strategy and banking experience is something I’m extremely proud of.”
The Franchisee of the Year Award underscores the strength of WSI’s franchise network, built on a foundation of 30 years of innovation, collaboration, and shared success. This recognition not only highlights Eric’s outstanding contributions but also reinforces the power of franchising as a model for growth, leadership, and community impact.
“Franchisees of the Year represent the very best of franchising,” said Matt Haller, President and CEO of the International Franchise Association. “They embody the American Dream, create economic opportunity, serve their communities, and show what it means to go into business for yourself, but not by yourself. We are proud to recognize Eric Cook with the highest honor IFA awards to individual franchisees, and we salute his tireless efforts to lift up all those he serves.”
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Celebrating its 65th year, the International Franchise Association (IFA) is the oldest and largest organization representing franchising worldwide. The IFA recognizes outstanding franchisees annually through its Franchisee of the Year Awards, highlighting entrepreneurial excellence, community impact, and leadership.
Eric Cook’s IFA Franchisee of the Year award is more than an individual achievement—it’s a testament to what’s possible when expertise meets the right opportunity. His success reflects the strength of WSI’s franchise model, which helps professionals like you turn knowledge into a thriving business with the support of a global network, cutting-edge strategies, and a proven system.
With WSI, you don’t have to build a business alone. You’ll have the tools, training, and mentorship needed to navigate the evolving digital marketing landscape while creating meaningful results for your clients. Whether you’re looking for greater flexibility or a scalable business opportunity, WSI provides the foundation for long-term success.
If you’re ready to take control of your future and build a business that aligns with your expertise and ambitions, now is the time to join WSI. Contact us to learn more about how WSI can help you launch and grow your own digital marketing agency today.
For more insights, visit our WSI Franchise Experience Center or Request More Information now.
This article was originally published on the WSI World blog. For industry reactions and to join the conversation, visit our announcement on LinkedIn