World Franchise Associates strengthens its network with appointment of associates in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia

The new WFA network members are:

Dr. Khalid M Al Sharfa, Managing Partner, WFA Saudi Arabia and Bahrain : Arabian Gulf businessman since 1987 and investor with business interests throughout the Middle East and North Africa. With offices in KSA, Lebanon and UAE, Dr Al Sharfa is the CEO of Saudi Trading and Resources (STAR Group Holdings) and serves on the boards of several private companies across the region. STAR operates through joint ventures and strategic partnerships in establishing successful business operations in KSA and neighbouring Arabian Gulf markets.

Fouziya Chilwan, Business Director, WFA Bahrain : Mrs. Chilwan brings extensive experience and expertise in the areas of sales management, leadership, contract negotiation, new business development and key account management.

Abdullah Al-Rasheed, Business Director, WFA Saudi Arabia : Mr Al Rasheed's experience encompasses a diverse array of industry sectors, including hospitality, retail, B2B services, tourism, vocational training, advertising, contracting, healthcare services, insurance brokerage and IT.

Salman Khan, WFA Bahrain : Committed to high standards of customer care and working closely with brands to ensure achievement of their goals, Mr Khan is skilled in seeking out new business opportunities and the development and implementation of marketing plans.

Ishaque Ahmed Siddiqui, Business Director, WFA Saudi Arabia : Post Graduate Degree in Business Management and IBM certified E-Commerce Specialist, with expertise in providing IT business solutions, incorporating research and development and the generation of new business opportunities with a strong business acumen.

A spokesperson for WFA remarked, "We are delighted to announce the addition of such eminent and highly qualified professionals to our network. The combination of skills and experience that our new associates bring to WFA will allow us to strengthen the unparalleled consultancy services we offer to franchise businesses across the GCC."

In 2012, World Franchise Associates secured country and area development agreements for 17 brands in 68 markets.