With over four decades of experience in the restaurant industry, Jay Kazlow is a seasoned professional known for his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence. Starting from humble beginnings as a dishwasher, Kazlow quickly rose through the ranks, co-founding the successful Mexican fast-casual chain, La Casita. From there, he held pivotal roles in renowned establishments such as Cracker Barrel Old Country Store and Café Tu Tu Tango, where he honed his skills in operations management and strategic leadership. Currently serving as the Director of Purchasing at Alexandria Restaurant Partners and President and COO of Dantanna’s Surf & Turf, Kazlow leverages his wealth of experience to optimize procurement strategies, maintain vendor relations and uphold quality standards. His relentless pursuit of knowledge and passion for culinary arts have been the driving forces behind his enduring success in the restaurant industry.

With an extensive business background, Neil Newcomb entered the restaurant industry early in his career. After graduating from Southern Methodist University, he was interested in pursuing a career in the restaurant industry and started a deli restaurant in Mississippi with his father, brother, and colleague, Debra Bryson. The team initiated their concept in an abandoned gas station in Oxford and grew the brand to new heights, which is now known today as McAlister’s Deli. After growing the brand to over 200 units, the leadership team and Newcomb sold the brand but was able to find his calling. He then became involved with the then up-and-coming Brixx Pizza, where he formed a partnership to franchise the brand and was the President of Brixx Franchise Systems, LLC. Newcomb was then introduced to Kelly’s Roast Beef, where he immediately loved the brand’s high level of quality and service. He believed he could take the brand to the next level with his experience in the franchising space.

Andy Korbak is a seasoned veteran in the payments and hospitality space, having spent years working the front lines at various restaurants in the early stages of his career, and he now is fortunate to help guide his clients through the nuances of the hospitality payments and employee benefits space. Andy graduated from Rutgers University, and as his career has evolved he has worked with large brands such as Adecco, Tractor Supply Company, Big Lots, Herman Miller and more. He’s a resident of the Upper West Side in NY, where he and his family call home.