Jake Philpotts is a leading executive with over 10 years of experience in various development and operations roles for restaurant and business management brands, including Aldi, Chick-Fil-A, and Techtronic Industries. As Vice President of Business Development & Franchise Relations at Surcheros, a growing fast casual Tex-Mex restaurant based in Alpharetta, GA, Jake is responsible for all company and franchise development activities. Jake manages the evaluation and recruitment of new franchisees, real estate selection for franchise business, franchisee construction oversight, and franchise relationship management. Jake started his role with Surcheros in 2019 as the Director of Strategy and Business Development. By October 2020, he quickly took over as VP of Business Development and Franchise Relations. Jake is an integral part of Surcheros and is passionate about helping others make the right decisions when starting a franchise.

Erin Snyder is Vice President of Franchise Development for Handel’s Ice Cream, which has been in the business of making and selling premium ice cream since 1945. Snyder is a highly experienced leader in brand growth. As Head of Franchise Development for Handel’s, Snyder will focus on identifying and recruiting high-quality franchisees, driving growth within the existing franchise network, developing and executing strategic target market strategies and accelerating system growth through successful unit openings. Handel’s boasts over 150 locations across 15 states and was founded in Youngstown, Ohio, by Alice Handel nearly 80 years ago. The company continues the sweet legacy she established from her backyard garden and upholds a commitment to quality.

Ryan Weaver is the Chief Executive Officer of Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken, a fast-casual dining franchise specializing in chicken, homestyle side dishes, and freshly made biscuits, based in Shalimar, Florida. Weaver's experience spans diverse sectors, including tech and consulting, and has demonstrated an ability to navigate complex challenges and steer companies toward growth. Weaver was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken in June 2021. Since taking over the role, his visionary approach has transformed the brand, including the launch of a complete brand refresh in 2023. Under his stewardship, Lee's Famous Recipe Chicken has been named the Best Fast Food Fried Chicken by USA Today, reconnected with its original franchisee base and expanded its market presence. Weaver began his journey in the corporate world as a consultant with international business firm FTI Consulting, where he consulted for the Telecom, Media, & Technology (TMT) Group, specializing in Corporate Finance and Restructuring.

William "Bill" DiPaola, President & CEO of NHG, LLC (Chicken Salad Chick) and Born from the Lime, LLC, brings 32 years of restaurant and franchise experience. He has held leadership roles in companies such as Swamp Dawg Restaurant Management, Ballard Brands, and Dat Dog Enterprises. Bill is also active in supporting BIPOC leadership through C.I.L.I. and advocating for franchising at the International Franchise Association. A seasoned public speaker, Bill has been featured in major publications like Forbes, Entrepreneur, and Franchise Times. He has received recognition from Biz New Orleans and New Orleans Magazine as a key industry leader.