New NCASEF Chairman Officially Begins Tenure

TUCSON, Ariz. -- Joe Galea has officially taken the helm of the National Coalition of Associations of 7-Eleven Franchisees (NCASEF). He will work from his office in Santa Cruz, Calif., where he currently operates one 7-Eleven store.

Galea was elected chairman on Oct. 24 during NCASEF's Dana Point, Calif., annual meeting. He has been a 7-Eleven franchisee for 41 years and has served as president of the San Francisco/Monterey Bay Franchise Owners Association (FOA) since its founding in 2006. He previously served as NCASEF's executive vice chairman for two terms, including one under former Chairman Bruce Maples.

“My vision for NCASEF is to build membership and help franchisees in any way possible,” Galea stated upon being elected chairman, according to a news release. “In supporting that goal, I have three top priorities: building a strong working relationship and communications with 7-Eleven Inc.; directing NCASEF executive board members to work closely with the FOAs; and maintaining strong working relationships with manufacturers and suppliers."

In a subsequent interview with CSNews Online, Galea said he intends to defend franchisees' independent contractor status, a point he emphasized in his campaign.

In addition to his new role, the San Francisco/Monterey Bay FOA board determined that Galea can retain his role as president, while also leading the Coalition.