FEI NJ Virtual Peer to Peer Session | January 2026 | Franchising 101

Elio is driven by achieving superior insurance and risk management outcomes for his clients—one of the key reasons he has dedicated his career to the insurance profession. He is passionate about helping individuals and businesses manage risk, attract and retain talent, and achieve their goals in business and in life. With more than 25 years of diverse experience across entrepreneurship, leadership, management, sales, strategic development, marketing, and risk management, Elio brings a broad, practical perspective to every engagement and delivers meaningful results for individuals and organizations of all sizes.

Elio’s approach is entirely results-oriented. He believes every challenge should begin and end with a clear vision, a thoughtful strategy, and measurable goal attainment. This mindset—combined with his integrity, reliability, and genuine passion for the relationships he builds—matches his commitment to helping clients accomplish ambitious objectives.

Joshua Malik is the Founder and CEO of Joshua Tree Experts, a rapidly growing green industry franchise system specializing in tree care, plant health care, lawn care, and pest control. He has built the company into a scalable, multi-market platform by combining disciplined operations, data driven financial management, and a strong culture of accountability and service excellence. Joshua works closely with franchise teams to develop systems for onboarding, training, marketing, and performance optimization that drive sustainable growth and profitability. Known for balancing long term strategic vision with hands-on leadership, he remains actively involved in franchise development, strategic partnerships, and initiatives that enhance enterprise value and position Joshua Tree Experts for continued national expansion.

Robert Reilly, CPA, is an Audit Partner with over 30 years of public accounting experience, where he leads the firm’s Franchisor Audit Practice.  Rob guides clients through the complexities of financial reporting and compliance unique to the franchise industry. He specializes in helping franchisors meet the rigorous requirements of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), ensuring that clients’ financial statements and disclosures align with federal and state regulations and support successful franchise growth.

Rob is also recognized for his deep expertise in consumer products, manufacturing, and distribution. He is a trusted advisor to clients navigating complex audit and assurance challenges.

Rob’s expertise also extends to the firm’s Pension Services Group, where he works with employee benefit plans of all types and sizes.

Prior to joining EisnerAmper, Rob held management roles at both regional and Big 4 accounting firms.