Richard Bock has been named president of FranNet of Maryland. FranNet assists individuals interested in exploring self-employment as a career option through franchised business ownership.

Mr. Bock knows firsthand about franchise ownership. He owns two Huntington Learning Center sites, one in Bel Air and the other in Perry Hall. His experience in buying franchises over the past 15 years gives his FranNet clients greater insights into navigating the process.

Prior to his involvement in Huntington Learning Center, Mr. Bock spent 23 years with Volvo Cars in the United States and Europe. He served as senior vice president, sales and marketing, and vice president, parts and service, at Volvo Cars Europe and as general manager, manpower development, at Volvo Cars North America.

He is active in the community. Mr. Bock is a commissioner for the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools’ Commission on Elementary and Secondary Schools and is a member of the board of directors of the Harford Community College Foundation.

In addition, Mr. Bock has served as chair of the Harford Business Roundtable for Education and is a past member of the boards of the Harford County YMCA, Susquehanna Private Industry Council and Permanent Nominating Caucus (which recommends county Board of Education members to the governor).

Mr. Bock, a Bel Air resident, holds a bachelor’s degree in history and secondary education from William Paterson College and has pursued graduate course work in New York and in Europe.

“Buying a franchise can be a good way for someone to own a business with limited risks. I work with clients who want the freedom and flexibility to own their own businesses but who also want to have the solid backing of a proven success,” Mr. Bock said.  “For those who work with FranNet, 91 percent of franchise owners are still in the business after two years compared to 64 percent of businesses that started without FranNet support. Five years after the start, 84 percent of FranNet users are still in existence compared to 50 percent without FranNet support.”

FranNet of Maryland, part of the national organization FranNet, works with clients who are interested in purchasing a franchised business. Consultants use a specific process to determine a business model unique to each person. The model suggests specific franchises that fit best with each person’s goals, skill sets and interests, both personally and professionally. More information about FranNet of Maryland may be found at frannet.com/rbock.