David Schmidt is the President of Keke’s Breakfast Cafe. He joined Denny’s Corporation in September 2022 and is a 30-year veteran who brings to Keke’s a proven track record of operations, marketing, finance, training, and HR leadership. Prior to Keke’s, David worked as CFO of Red Lobster. He also worked for Bloomin’ Brands where he held various leadership roles throughout his tenure, including Group Vice President and CFO of Bloomin’ Brand’s Casual Dining. He also served as President of Bonefish Grill, during which time he was responsible for developing and implementing the long-term growth strategy of a 200-unit polished casual concept. David holds a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, MN.

Denise Tran, a former attorney, is the founder and CEO of Bun Mee Vietnamese Sandwich Eatery, a gourmet fast casual restaurant concept with five locations in San Francisco—Pacific Heights, Financial District, SFO Terminals 1 & 3, and the Marina—and a plan to franchise nationwide. Bun Mee has been nationally recognized as a pioneer in the Asian sandwich niche making delicious banh mi sandwiches with wide crossover appeal. Launched in 2011, Bun Mee blends the street food concepts of Vietnam with Denise’s flavorful modern interpretations using fresh, local ingredients. Within months of opening Bun Mee was critically reviewed with many of their menu items landing on San Francisco’s “best” lists. In 2013, Bun Mee was named on Fast Casual Magazine’s Top 100 Movers & Shakers in the country at #28 between Panera Bread and Five Guys Burgers. Denise has also been recognized by Quick Service Magazine as one of the country’s top Wonder Women founders who are changing the game in the fast casual industry.