Meet Jiahui (Jennifer) Zhang, CFE!
Jiahui (Jennifer) Zhang 张佳慧 graduated from University of Toronto, Faculty of Law. She also acquired a Bachelor of Law and a Master of Law degree from Beijing Foreign Studies University in China. She articled with Independent Electricity System Operator in Ontario, and was called to the Ontario (Canada) Bar in April 2021.
Jennifer’s practice is focused on international business and investment, particularly in franchise, distribution, and licensing. Jennifer assists international clients who wish to establish or expand into Canada and drafts legal documents for use in Canada.
She also advises on deal structuring and regulatory compliance issues that are pertaining to businesses. Prior to being called to the Ontario Bar, Jennifer worked in infrastructure investment transactions in many emerging economies, and was involved in project financing and greenfield merger and acquisition deals.
What inspired you to join the CFE program?
I want to express my sincere gratitude to Paul Jones, Joseph Adler, and my other mentors in the franchising community. Their unwavering support, encouragement, and guidance have not only inspired my decision to pursue the CFE designation but have also been instrumental in shaping my journey throughout the program.
What does having your CFE Designation mean to you?
As a legal professional, the CFE designation serves as a powerful testament to my expertise not only in franchise law and compliance but also in business strategy. This designation acknowledges the breadth of my knowledge, empowering me to offer comprehensive and practical advice to clients. It underscores my commitment to excellence in both legal and strategic aspects of franchising.
What has been the most challenging part of obtaining your designation?
The most challenging aspect was navigating the specific requirements of the Canadian CFE program. However, over the course, I had the opportunity to delve into materials pertaining to U.S. franchising laws. And it proved to be an enriching learning experience and provided valuable insights, particularly in the context of cross-border and international franchising.
Do you have any advice for current CFE participants or those looking to get started?
Embarking on this journey right after the pandemic allowed me the opportunity to attend numerous in-person events, workshops, and roundtables. Actively engaging in conferences not only laid a robust foundation but also kept me abreast of the latest industry trends. To current CFE participants, my advice is to seek diverse exposures, regardless of your role—whether franchisor, franchisee, or supplier. The wealth of knowledge gained from active participation is invaluable for personal and professional growth in the dynamic franchising landscape.