SPEAKERS

Maribeth Dela Cruz is the President of Jollibee North America who has successfully led the Jollibee brand to unprecedented growth in the region. She is a multi-awarded executive who has led different companies through her focus on strategic innovation, operational excellence, and a commitment to sustainable brand and business growth. She has built a reputation in the restaurant industry for transforming companies, maximizing profitability, and fostering a culture of collaboration and integrity. She has spent over 30 years with the Jollibee Group, one of the world’s fastest-growing restaurant companies. It operates 19 brands with over 9,500 stores across 32 countries - including its flagship brand, Jollibee. Maribeth began her career journey with the Jollibee Group in the Philippines in 1986 as a Shift Manager for Jollibee, then slowly moved up the ranks to Operations Manager initially for Jollibee then for Mary’s Chicken (a Jollibee Group subsidiary at that time). In 2005, she moved to the U.S. to become the General Manager for the West Coast operations of Jollibee. And in 2010, her scope expanded to overseeing the Jollibee brand in North America as President from 2013 up to the present.

Ahnaf Ali is a technology visionary with a 25-year track record of driving innovative solutions for large global brands. At Church’s Texas Chicken®, Ahnaf leads the Technology and Digital Platforms team responsible for implementing and maintaining critical systems that serve restaurants and enterprises. He spearheads the translation of strategic priorities of the business into specific tactics, including developing annual and long-term technology budgets and balancing budget requests with ROI analysis, among many other technical tasks. Before joining the Church’s® family, Ahnaf spent over 23 years in positions ranging from technical solution architect to executive level for global restaurant brands, including Subway (Franchise Co-Op), Burger King, Arby’s, and BurgerFi International. Over that time, he developed and implemented custom solutions for POS, Back Office, Payments, and Data Analytics solutions.

Bob Andersen is highly regarded as a restaurant industry leader with a successful track record in growing emerging restaurant brands. He has developed a unique and diverse perspective in all aspects of the restaurant business. His experience spans C-level and senior executive positions; to launching a restaurant start-up; to owning, developing, and operating restaurants as a multi-brand franchisee; and serving as an area developer/representative. Brands he has worked with include: Jimboy's Tacos, Sunny Street Cafe, Cowboy Chicken, Twin Peaks, MOOYAH Burgers, Fries & Shakes, and Boston Pizza. At The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill, Bob is helping the brand carve out a niche in the "fine fast casual" space. The concept currently has over 45 locations in 17 states with 280+ units in its development pipeline.

Robby got his start in franchising with Craveworthy Brands’ stir-fry concept, Genghis Grill, where he worked his way up to Director of Operations. A former grocery store manager, Robby’s love of cooking and food service arose from conversations with customers about healthful recipes that he then learned to cook at home. While he would eventually oversee five restaurants across three different brands, Robby is still most frequently seen greeting guests at his beloved Genghis Grill in Tempe, Arizona.

Jim Bitticks is the President and Chief Operating Officer for Dave’s Hot Chicken. He oversees the day-to-day operation of the company with direct oversight over operations, training, procurement, construction, and technology. Jim joined the Dave’s team when there were just four restaurants and has helped grow the brand to 150 locations across the U.S., Canada, and the Middle East. Prior to his current role, Jim was the Chief Restaurant Officer and EVP of Operations, Training, and Construction for Blaze Pizza, and oversaw the successful growth of that brand from two restaurants to three hundred seventy-two restaurants before making the move to Dave’s.

Ryan Black is the CEO and co-founder of SAMBAZON, the pioneering brand that introduced Organic and Fair Trade açaí to the world. Black founded the company in 2000 alongside his brother Jeremy and friend Ed after a surf trip to Brazil, where he recognized the potential of certified açaí as a catalyst for sustainable development in the Amazon Rainforest. Under his leadership, SAMBAZON has become the global leader in açaí, with products available in over 30,000 U.S. retail locations and more than 50 countries. Black is now leveraging the company’s industry expertise and best-in-class proprietary supply chain to expand SAMBAZON Açaí Bowls quick-service locations in both traditional and nontraditional venues.

Francesco Brachetti is the Founder and CEO of AVO, a seasonally inspired, fast-casual restaurant with five locations throughout New York City. A seasoned entrepreneur, author, and business leader, he boasts a prestigious academic background and extensive experience in hospitality and finance. Francesco began his career at Dafiti, Rocket Internet in Mexico City, where he led the Business Intelligence department for several years before founding AVO. He holds a Double Master’s degree in International Management from ESADE Business School and in Finance from RSM Erasmus University, as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Finance from Bocconi University.

Joel Bulger is the Chief Marketing Officer of WOWorks, the platform brand home to 6 healthy dining fast-casual restaurants. With an impressive 25-year tenure in marketing and brand development within the restaurant industry, Joel brings a wealth of expertise and a proven track record of fostering growth and innovation. Having previously held the role of Chief Marketing Officer at esteemed brands such as On The Border, Zaxby's, Johnny Rockets, and Focus Brands, Joel has earned a stellar reputation for his ability to drive guest traffic and enhance menu profitability.

Chef Daniel Camp has been the driving force behind culinary innovation at Fuzzy’s Taco Shop since joining as Director of Culinary in April 2023. With a deep understanding of the brand's distinct identity, Daniel focuses on creating recipes that embody Fuzzy’s scratch-made spirit while being practical for the brand's expanding footprint. His work is characterized by a balance of creativity and operational know-how, making his contributions valuable as Fuzzy’s continues to grow. Shortly after joining Fuzzy’s, Daniel led the development of the Baja Fish Taco, which quickly became a fan favorite, and introduced Quesabirria Tacos and a Birria Bowl to the menu. These offerings showcase Daniel’s commitment to delivering fresh, bold flavors that resonate with guests. Beyond recipe creation, Daniel introduced the brand's first Culinary Workgroup, bringing together franchisees and operators to align on menu development and innovation.

Before joining Networld Media Group as Vice President of Events, Cherryh Cansler spent several years as VP of Editorial managing the Networld’s nine B2B publications. Throughout her 20-year career as a journalist, she’s written about a variety of topics, ranging from the restaurant industry and technology to health and fitness news. Her byline has appeared in a plethora of newspapers, magazines and websites, including Forbes, The Kansas City Star and American Fitness magazine. She also serves as the managing editor for FastCasual.com.

Jon Canter is an accomplished leader and the Vice President of Franchising at ClusterTruck, driving the brand’s franchise strategy and building the foundation for a high-performing franchise network. Jon is responsible for developing scalable systems and cultivating a culture of operational excellence, focusing on delivering the exceptional customer experiences that define ClusterTruck. With extensive expertise in customer service, operations, and food technology, Jon has advanced through key roles at ClusterTruck, including Director of Customer Experience and Operations Manager, giving him unique insights into nurturing customer loyalty and brand advocacy. A dedicated advocate of data-driven strategy, Jon utilizes analytics to enhance customer satisfaction, refine marketing approaches, and accelerate growth for ClusterTruck’s expanding footprint.

Christopher Caudill, senior vice president of marketing & innovation at Long John Silver’s, LLC, possesses nearly two decades of experience in brand marketing, including positions with Brown-Forman and Yum! Brands. Now, he is making waves with the Long John Silver’s brand. In his current role, Christopher oversees all aspects of marketing, working with company leadership and agency partners to plan and execute long-term strategies that take customers’ excitement and satisfaction with the brand to new heights. Christopher seeks ways to drive growth and innovation, including new product concepts, limited time promotions, and innovative collaborations with other brands. Looking ahead, Christopher aims to make every meal an adventure for their customers.

Rev is a New York City restaurant owner and knows exactly how hard it is to operate and brand a hospitality business. He is a hospitality marketing consultant, customer and technology evangelist at Branded Strategic Hospitality, with more than 20 years experience in B2B digital marketing and business development, specializing in hospitality marketing, content, local SEO, reputation management and demand generation. He helps technology companies, brands and restaurants to acquire and retain more customers. Rev is known as an “expert burger taster,” pens hospitality and marketing tips on his Instagram @revciancio, as well as his LinkedIn Profile and hosts the Restaurant Marketing Podcast. He believes that Pizza is a religion.

Wisetail Director of Sales, Kat Claypool, is an experienced Sales Leader in the technology sector. With a background in delivering tailored SaaS solutions, she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and an MBA from the University of Charleston. Kat is known for her exceptional leadership qualities, including integrity, honesty, and passion for her work. She excels at building teams founded on trust and authenticity. She specializes in helping organizations transition into close-knit communities, using her tech and leadership expertise to inspire stronger, connected teams. Outside of work, Kat enjoys spending time with her family.

Hailey Coffman is the Manager of Training and Special Operations of everbowl, a rapidly growing superfood bowl and smoothie concept with 100 locations nationwide. Hailey's primary focus surrounds the onboarding and training of new franchisees, as well as the development of the brand's operational resources and materials. In addition to training, Hailey oversees different special operations projects, including research and development, with the goal of introducing innovative new products that align with the company's strategy to increase average unit volume. Hailey also oversees the management of part of everbowl's tech stack, including point of sale and third party platforms. Her passion and dedication to her role is represented in her nearly 8 years with everbowl.

Yasmin Curtis is the Founder and CEO of one of the nation's top emerging seafood brands, Two Fish Foods. Launched in 2019, it was inspired by her popular Two Fish Crab Shack restaurant in Chicago, Illinois after Curtis made the innovative move to bring the product to a wider audience during the pandemic. The brand’s signature 3 The Chi-Way sauce became a standout feature and the frozen boil bags quickly became a go-to for seafood lovers across the country. Today, three variations of Two Fish Seafood Boil bags are available in major retailers nationwide, including Walmart, Kroger, H-E-B, Albertsons, Meijer, Harris Teeter, and Mariano's. Recognized as a successful food industry entrepreneur, Curtis has been featured in Biz Journal, Food and Beverage Magazine and Entrepreneur Magazine.

Mandy Wolf Detwiler is the managing editor at Networld Media Group and the site editor for PizzaMarketplace.com and QSRweb.com. She has more than 20 years’ experience covering food, people and places. An award-winning print journalist, she has spent nearly two decades covering the pizza industry. Mandy has been featured on the Food Network and has won numerous awards for her coverage of the restaurant industry.

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.

Alicia DiStefano is InMarket’s Vice President, Practice Leader of QSR and Dining, bringing nearly 20 years of experience across real-time marketing and measurement, data as a service (DaaS), programmatic, and self-service media. Since joining InMarket in 2022, Alicia has helped leading restaurant brands power and measure digital marketing campaigns, empowering advertisers to maximize campaign impact. Prior to joining InMarket, Alicia held numerous leadership roles in the adtech space including Mobilewalla’s VP of Sales at Mobilewalla and GroundTruth’s VP, Head of Industry for Retail & Restaurants. Throughout her career, Alicia has shared conference stages with brands like Panera, Subway, KFC, McDonald’s, DoorDash, and more. Alicia is based in Atlanta, GA.

As the Director of Training for Eggs Up Grill, Wesley Epstein leads the development and execution of comprehensive training programs across multiple locations and departments. He is responsible for assessing training needs, designing curriculum, and implementing training initiatives that enhance employee performance and operational efficiency. In his role as a Digital Training & Development Specialist, Wes leverages technology to create and deliver engaging digital training content. He designs e-learning modules, webinars, and interactive training sessions that cater to diverse learning styles. Finally, as a Franchise Business Consultant for Eggs Up Grill, he plays a pivotal role in supporting franchisees to achieve business success providing strategic guidance on operations, marketing, and financial management, helping franchisees optimize their performance.

Josh Felix is the Director of Solution Design at Axonify. He is an expert in transforming how companies support their frontline employees worldwide. Drawing on deep expertise in learning, communications, and operations, he is dedicated to reshaping organizational dynamics. Josh advocates a 360º learning methodology—covering knowledge transfer, reinforcement, and assessment—and guides clients in adopting robust learning platforms. Focusing on data-driven insights, he continually refines learning and knowledge metrics, ensuring a dynamic, ever-evolving learning experience. He leverages Axonify's offerings to champion the development of frontline employees in knowledge, communication, and execution. Josh lives with his wife, Victoria, and their children in Peachtree City, GA.

Sebastian Ferrer is the Vice President of Operations for the largest master franchise of Gong Cha in North America, overseeing more than 172 locations across nine (9) states. He earned a bachelor's degree in science, majoring in business administration, which laid the foundation for his career in leadership and operations. Sebastian's professional journey began in law enforcement with the New York City Police Department. He later transitioned into the restaurant industry, starting as a multi-unit operator for Taco Bell in New York. His passion for the industry led him to roles in brand development and franchise operations, where he gained valuable experience driving business growth and operational excellence. In his current role, Sebastian is dedicated to fostering the success of Gong Cha’s franchise network while delivering exceptional customer experiences.

Jose Gonzalez is a seasoned business professional with long experience in numerous business domains. From managing and performing consulting work for a software company, spearheading integrated marketing teams at large international ad agencies to launching beverage brands, Jose has done it all. He brings expertise in using empirical data, modeling and consumer insights to help businesses solve problems and transform their growth trajectories. Jose has always been deeply passionate about the field of advertising technology, and as the head of sales for Datawrkz in North America, he works closely with organizations of all sizes across the US to help them define and execute ambitious advertising campaigns that deliver incredible outcomes and returns.

Avi has been helping restaurants optimize their online presence for more than 15 years at companies like Yelp, Yext, and Marqii. He lives and breathes the daily challenges restaurant operators face, and founded Marqii to help them reduce the time they spend managing their digital hospitality.Marqii creates unforgettable customer experiences from first search to latest visit with a one-stop digital operations platform built for hospitality operators. With dozens of POS integrations and AI-powered review responses, Marqii helps more than 12,000 restaurants save time managing their online reviews, menus, and listings.

Kelly Grogan is a highly successful executive in the hospitality industry with extensive experience and achievements in driving revenue growth in both B2B and B2C settings. With a keen understanding of market dynamics and consumer preferences, she has consistently devised and executed innovative sales strategies that have propelled her employers and clients to new heights of success. Her tenure in the restaurant space has been marked by a series of notable accomplishments. Through strategic partnerships, targeted marketing initiatives, and an ability to build from the ground up, Kelly has grown both new and established departments to achieve significant incremental revenue growth. By leveraging her expertise in identifying and capitalizing on emerging trends, as well as her ability to work cross-functionally across all departments, she has seen great success at both the corporate and local store levels.

Corbett Guest is the President and Chief Strategy Officer at Imaginuity, a leading marketing agency focused on multi-location businesses. Recognized for his big thinking and vision, Corbett has driven significant agency growth and delivered transformative outcomes for major clients including Southwest Airlines, Taco Cabana, Cinemark, Goosehead Insurance and Jones Lang LaSalle. A two-time Dallas Digital Fight Club winner, Corbett excels in simplifying complex challenges and crafting actionable strategies. Leading Imaginuity for over 20 years, Corbett has positioned the agency as a trusted partner in navigating the competitive and highly complex marketing landscape, helping clients achieve measurable success through creativity, technology, and innovation.

As Director of Marketing at Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii, a leading coffee franchise renowned for its premium sourcing of Hawaiian coffees and memorable cafés, Ivy Hanks leads the franchise brand’s marketing strategy, overseeing local store initiatives and the execution of innovative promotions. Previously, Ivy played a pivotal role at Tropical Smoothie Cafe, where she successfully launched limited-time offerings, developed strategic brand marketing plans, and orchestrated impactful grand openings. With a solid foundation in event planning, Ivy excels at creating meaningful community connections and driving customer loyalty, helping franchisees differentiate themselves in the competitive coffee market.

Mohaimina (“Mina”) Haque is a trailblazing CEO, attorney, and educator, breaking barriers as the first woman CEO of Tony Roma's in its five-decade history. As she spearheads the global restaurant chain, Mina is also actively engaged in the legal sphere, serving as the founder of the Law Office of Mohaimina Haque, PLLC, based in Washington DC, and as an Adjunct Professor of Law Practice Management at American University Washington College of Law. In her legal practice, Mina's expertise spans various areas, including corporate law, immigration law, and litigation. Mina's commitment to innovation extends to her tenure at Tony Roma's, where she is always at the forefront of testing innovative solutions for an agile and adaptable workforce. Her leadership and vision drive the chain's expansion and innovation, while her ongoing legal practice keeps her abreast of legal developments.

Marti Hatridge, Director of Food & Beverage Product Strategy at AMC Theatres, is a leading brand strategist with more than two decades in the restaurant and entertainment industries, helping major brands exceed their objectives and goals. Marti focuses her expertise on unique partnerships and marketing communications to deliver inspired offerings and exceptional guest experiences while also driving profitability. She has successfully executed innovative programs that build real brand affinity. Her deep understanding of guest preferences and trends has allowed her to develop innovative menus and experiences that resonate deeply with diverse audiences.

Samantha Hebel is the Director of Marketing at Hungry Howie’s, where she has been instrumental in driving the brand’s growth and innovation since 2015. With over 20 years of experience stemming from her early involvement with her parents as franchise owners, Samantha brings a deep understanding of the industry and franchise systems. She leads advertising strategies, manages budgets, and works closely with operations to support franchisees through personalized marketing initiatives, such as national marketing initiatives, grand opening plans and localized campaigns. Under her leadership, Hungry Howie’s has achieved sustained growth and improved profitability across its locations. Samantha is passionate about fostering collaboration, maintaining open communication, and creating an environment that empowers her team to succeed. Recognized as an industry leader, she was named in QSR Magazine’s Young Restaurant Leaders Class of 2023.

Amy Hom brings over 25 years of impactful leadership in the restaurant industry and technology innovation space, Amy is currently the COO at Barcelona Wine Bar. Previously, Amy served as the Chief Operating Officer and Chief People Officer for Bluestone Lane, where she played a pivotal role in shaping operational strategies and fostering a culture of excellence. Before her tenure at Bluestone Lane, she held the position of Executive Vice President of North American Retail and Kitchens at REEF Technology, where she led transformative initiatives to convert static neighborhood spaces into dynamic community hubs, including building a food safety team, training department, and an operational excellence strategy. With a keen eye for operational efficiency and a passion for nurturing talent, Amy has contributed in key leadership positions at prominent restaurant brands. She served as the Vice President of Operations at sweetgreen, providing operational support to over 100 locations.

Kenny Hom is an accomplished executive with over 30 years of experience in the casual dining and fast-casual restaurant sectors, specializing in team building and operational excellence. He currently serves as the Senior Vice President of Strategic Operations and Development at Bushfire Kitchen, where he also oversees Supply Chain and Research & Development. Under his leadership, the brand is poised for significant expansion, with plans to double in size over the next two years. Before joining Bushfire Kitchen, Kenny held senior leadership roles, including President and Chief Operating Officer at Slapfish Restaurant Group, and Vice President of Company and Franchise Operations at Farmer Boys Restaurant. Throughout his career, he has been instrumental in driving growth, maximizing profitability and optimizing operations across diverse restaurant brands.

Troy Hooper joined Pepper Lunch as one of the three global business unit CEO’s for the brand, and oversees Pepper Lunch’s parent company in North America, Hot Palette America. Troy brings 30 years of unparalleled experience in hospitality, operations management and executive leadership to this role, which has fueled Pepper Lunch’s infrastructure development, growth efforts, and brand deliverables, creating a fruitful franchise model for the North American market. Throughout his career, Troy has successfully built new concepts, rebranded existing restaurants, and improved well-established venues for iconic brands. Troy’s decades of experience and business acumen brings a breadth of knowledge to the rapidly growing global brand, Pepper Lunch.

R.J. Hottovy, CFA is Head of Analytical Research for Placer.ai. He has covered the restaurant, retail, and e-commerce sectors for nearly 20 years. He has held several analyst positions in the past, including Global Consumer Equity Strategist at Morningstar and equity analyst roles at William Blair & Co. and Deutsche Bank. Hottovy also brings a wealth of experience with early-stage investments as an investor and member of the investment committee for the IrishAngels Venture Capital group. He has worked with more than 100 early-stage consumer and technology companies, advising on more than $200 million in capital raises and other buy- and sell-side M&A transactions. Hottovy is also a member of the Chicago Seed Co. network, a group of Chicago-area investors focused on early-stage food & beverage companies. Hottovy's efforts have been recognized by several financial and trade publications, including CNBC, The Wall Street Journal, Investors Business Daily, Barron's, BusinessWeek, and Forbes.

After service in the U.S. Marine Corps, Amanda Kahalehoe integrated the values of adaptability and determination into her professional journey. From Long Island, NY, she melds her disciplined nature with exceptional communication skills and sharp critical thinking. Amanda's career embarked on its trajectory at a New York security firm, where she rose from the position of a data communication specialist to Chief Operating Officer of Business Operations. Throughout her profession, Amanda consistently led the charge in pioneering innovation across sales, operations, accounting, HR, and IT domains. Following her relocation to Charleston, she collaborated with George McLaughlin, becoming a pivotal member of the Vicious Biscuit team and contributing to its growth through the implementation of innovative strategies and practices.

Stacey Kane has more than 25 years of experience working with multi-unit restaurant chains as a Head of Marketing and Marketing Consultant. She has worked with such brands as California Tortilla, Think Food Group, Subway and East Coast Wings. Known for her incredible creativity and obsession with data she was one of the pioneers of using social media in the restaurant space and has been named a Top 20 Movers and Shakers by Fast Casual Magazine five times. Her passion is leading emerging brands as they scale for growth. Currently, Stacey is a fractional CMO for several fast casual brands including Fresh Baguette, Garden Catering, HCK Hot Chicken, Mahana Fresh and Mamoun's Falafel. Kane is passionate about the industry. She has been a National Pro-Start Judge for 3 years and after serving as a consultant, she was asked to sit on the board of CORE:Children of Restaurant Employees in 2022. CORE’s mission is to provide short-term financial relief to food and beverage service employees with children when navigating a qualifying circumstance.

Abhinav Kapur is the co-founder and CEO of Bikky, a Customer Data Platform (CDP) built exclusively for multi-unit restaurants. Bikky is a customer data platform exclusively for multi-unit restaurant brands With Bikky, brands like Dave's Hot Chicken, Bojangles, and Robeks have a clear understanding of how their marketing, menu, and operations impact guest traffic and frequency. By connecting with your entire tech stack—from POS to loyalty—Bikky delivers insight on up to 90% of your guest base, empowering you to make informed, fast decisions that drive incremental sales.

Shelby Kier is a seasoned Director of Digital Marketing with a proven ability to craft digital strategies that not only drive growth but also build lasting customer loyalty. With a strong background in data-driven insights, she specializes in creating targeted campaigns that engage audiences and foster long-term relationships. Shelby is skilled in SEO, content strategy, social media management, and paid advertising, using these tools to enhance brand presence while driving measurable results. Throughout her career, Shelby has successfully worked across multiple industries, showcasing her adaptability and a deep commitment to evolving digital trends. She is especially passionate about leveraging innovative approaches to boost customer retention and loyalty, focusing on strategies that resonate with audiences and keep them coming back.

Steven King is the Distinguished Professor of Innovation and Emerging Technologies at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, holding a joint appointment with the Hussman School of Journalism and Media and Kenan-Flagler Business School. He combines computer science concepts, human-centered design and storytelling to create new ways to present information through emerging technologies such as virtual and augmented reality, artificial intelligence, and other interactive media forms. Steven is the CEO of Blue Sky Robotics, which leverages computer vision and robotics to solve difficult problems in the supply chain, manufacturing, and hospitality industries.

Eric Knott is a restaurant executive with a proven track record built upon operational excellence, driving revenues with favorable returns, and a passion for developing best in class teams. Currently leading the fast casual brand Tiki Taco as Chief Executive Officer. Previously, Knott led the Premium QSR brand People Dedicated to Quality (PDQ) as the Chief Operating Officer, Eric has committed over a decade to driving strategic growth across the business. Understanding the importance of a holistic vision, Eric is directly responsible for producing results through a vast array of incentives. Innovation across Operations, Technology, Real Estate, and Marketing campaigns are a few examples of how Eric has created superior value to both the organizations.

Shawn Lalehzarian is the Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer of The Red Chickz, a Nashville Hot Chicken restaurant located in Los Angeles, California. After immigrating to the United States from Iran, Lalehzarian found his first job working at a local restaurant in San Diego washing dishes. As he progressed through his career, he was promoted to higher-up positions and eventually landed a senior management role. In his senior management position, Shawn oversaw multi-unit /multi -brand F&B operations with more than $30 Million dollars in revenue and 400 employees. He also played a key role in opening over 50 different restaurants around the nation and Canada working with brands such as Starbucks, CPK, Chili’s, Wolfgang Puck, Pei-Wei, Pinkberry, Bombay Sapphire and Ruby’s Diner just to name a few. In 2018, Shawn founded The Red Chickz, an authentic Nashville Hot Chicken restaurant. In 2022, Lalehzarian launched the franchise program for the Nashville hot chicken brand.

As Birdeye’s President and Chief Operating Officer, Dave leads all of the company’s go-to-market functions, including sales, marketing, customer success, business development, and partnerships. He has over 20 years of experience in marketing management, sales management, direct sales, and technical sales support.

Erin Levzow is a 20 year veteran and dynamic motivational speaker having worked in multiple industries. Most recently she was the Chief Marketing Officer for Musuem of Ice Cream. Prior to her MOIC role, she was the Vice President of Marketing Technology for Del Taco Restaurants. Recently Erin was awarded Top 25 Future is Female Award by Advertising Week New York as well as in 2023 CMO of the Year, 2023 MarComms Most Influential and Global MarTech Leader of the Year Awards. Prior to Del Taco, Erin was the CMO for Marcus Hotels & Resorts. Levzow has served as vice president of customer relationship marketing (CRM), loyalty and marketing for Hathway in Austin, Texas, a customer service experience company specializing in helping billion-dollar brands develop mobile-first strategies. Levzow’s extensive marketing and digital experience also includes serving as senior director of digital, social, CRM and e-commerce for Wingstop Restaurants in Dallas, Texas.

Andy Linke is the Senior Director of Marketing at Ziggi's Coffee, where he leads the brand's marketing strategy, focusing on customer engagement, loyalty programs, and innovative campaigns that drive growth and brand recognition. With a strong background in marketing and a proven track record of success, Andy has been instrumental in expanding Ziggi's Coffee's presence in the competitive coffee industry. Before joining Ziggi's Coffee, Andy held various marketing roles that honed his skills in brand development, digital marketing, and strategic planning. His experience spans across different industries, providing him with a unique perspective on consumer behavior and market trends.

John Lucas is an industry veteran with over 35 years of hospitality and restaurant experience. In his role, John ensures Farmer Boys upholds our consistent operational standards and delivers a high-quality, reliable guest experience in every restaurant. Additionally, Lucas oversees all the system’s franchised locations and is responsible for building upon Farmer Boys’ high service standards at those locations. Lucas joined the Farmer Boys team in 2017 as a franchise business consultant and now serves as the Vice President of Brand and Franchise Development.

Don McCoole is a dynamic and results-oriented sales leader with over 20 years of experience in B2B sales. A former officer in the U.S. Air Force, Don brings a strategic mindset and disciplined approach to business. After earning his MBA from Regis University, he leveraged his expertise in business strategy, sales execution, and technical presentation to help customers maximize their solutions. As our Vice President of Sales, Don is responsible for driving revenue growth by securing enterprise contracts, developing scalable and repeatable sales workflows, and providing technical and functional expertise throughout the sales and alliance processes. His ability to bridge the gap between technical solutions and business needs makes him a valuable asset to both our team and our customers. Outside of work, Don enjoys quality time with his family, exploring new destinations, and unwinding with a great movie.

As Executive Director of Client Partnerships at Imaginuity, Evan is responsible for leading client partnership and media teams in driving integrated marketing strategies and execution across integrated traditional and digital media channels. Evan has 40 years of advertising and marketing experience leading restaurant and CPG brands such as Taco Cabana, Pollo Tropical, Whataburger, Joe’s Crab Shack, Dave & Buster’s, Tabasco® and Sara Lee. When he’s not in the office, Evan is either on his way to the golf course, heading to the beach, or hanging out with his wife and two daughters.

Scott Mobley is a seasoned leader in the restaurant and franchising industry. As the President of Stoner's Pizza Joint, he oversees the brand's strategic growth, operational efficiency, and franchise development, driving its expansion across new markets. Before stepping into his current role, Scott was the Chief Operating Officer at Stoner's Pizza Joint, where he played a key role in streamlining operations and fostering strong relationships with franchisees. His experience also includes leadership positions such as Director of Franchising at Wings Over, Inc., where he guided national growth efforts, and his work with Zaxby’s Franchising, LLC, supporting operational and franchise development for one of the top fast-casual restaurant brands in the U.S. Scott is deeply committed to helping franchisees succeed by combining his industry expertise with a collaborative approach to building sustainable and thriving businesses.

Pedro “Pete” Mora, founder and CEO of the fajita delivery chain Fajita Pete’s, is an entrepreneur who has grown his restaurant concept to 31 locations in four states with more than 50 additional locations planned in the coming years. Originally from Colombia, Mora moved to Houston with his family as a child. In 2003, Pete graduated from the University of Houston Wolff Center for Entrepreneurship and opened his first restaurant, Poblano’s, a 6,500 square-foot, full-service location with 60 tables.

Joining Blaze Pizza with an impressive portfolio of over two decades in financial planning and accounting, Kevin Moran has a history of steering development teams towards outstanding performance through the alignment of fiscal goals with comprehensive strategies. Prior to his current role, Moran held the position of Vice President of Strategic Development at Focus Brands International, where he excelled in driving strategic development for the global franchisor and operator of over 6,600 restaurants. As CDO at Blaze, Moran will apply his seasoned expertise to nurture strategic alliances and accelerate the brand's global growth trajectory.

Steering the course of operations alongside CEO Justin Howe, Heath Nielsen serves as the President of HTeaO, a position that epitomizes his dedication to orchestrating daily operations and nurturing relationships with HTeaO’s esteemed franchise owners. With a career spanning over 25 dynamic years, Heath has led teams within renowned organizations such as Black Rifle, Starbucks, Sony, Vail Resorts, Gap, and the US Army. Throughout his journey, Heath has been driven by an unwavering commitment to excellence, a deep understanding of market dynamics, and a fervent passion for fostering growth and innovation.

Zack Oates is an author, husband, father, entrepreneur, and hot tub aficionado (but not in that order, necessarily). He grew up in restaurants before getting into startups. He was voted Top 100 Entrepreneurs, rang the NASDAQ bell, won the world’s biggest business competition, has been to 50 countries, and started 3 companies. He went on over 1,000 dates before he got married and wrote a book, “Dating Never Works…Until it Does.” He currently is Founder and CEO of Ovation, the no. 1 restaurant feedback platform in America, voted Top 50 Most Influential Supplier by Nation’s Restaurant News, and host of “Give an Ovation: A Podcast for Restaurants.”

Ryan leads finance, restaurant development, strategy, and analytics at Birdcall. Previously, he was VP of Finance at Maple Street Biscuit Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cracker Barrel. He led Maple Street’s growth by 25 restaurants, including the acquisition of 7 franchise locations, to a total of 60 stores. He gained much of his experience in finance, development, and analytics from his time at Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and DISH Network. Ryan has an MBA with Finance emphasis and a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the University of Missouri.

James O’Reilly is the CEO of Ascent Hospitality Management, the parent company of Perkins Restaurant & Bakery and Huddle House. James is embarking on an aggressive growth plan, investing in people, technology, and restaurant development. Prior to Ascent Hospitality Management, James served as the President & CEO of Smokey Bones after four years as the President and CEO of Long John Silver’s, America’s leading seafood QSR brand. While at LJS James led significant business and cultural improvements, being named “Turnaround Man” by the Louisville Courier Journal and earning three consecutive “Best Places to Work in Kentucky” awards from the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce. Prior to joining LJS as CEO, James held brand leadership positions in some of America’s leading restaurant brands, including Sonic Drive-in (Chief Marketing Officer, Chief Brand Officer), and KFC US (Chief Marketing Officer). James spent many years as a marketing leader outside the U.S., as CMO of KFC Canada, Pizza Hut United Kingdom, and KFC/Pizza Hut Caribbean & Latin America.

Jennifer Pecoraro-Striepling is the Chief Development Officer at Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux. A high-performing global development leader renowned for her diverse expertise in design, construction, facilities, real estate, and franchising, Jennifer brings robust experience from her previous leadership roles in restaurant franchising. Jennifer has established an impressive track record of driving growth, fostering collaborative teams, and implementing robust processes for world-class brands like Papa Johns, Bloomin’ Brands, and Darden Restaurants. A trailblazer and thought leader who strives for innovation in the constant evolution of restaurant development, Pecoraro-Striepling oversees Walk-On's development initiatives as the brand continues its nationwide expansion.

Jeff Perera is the Co-Founder and Vice President of Jeff’s Bagel Run, a rapidly growing brand redefining the bagel experience. With over two decades of leadership in retail management, Jeff has honed his expertise in operations, team leadership, and customer experience. In 2019, following an unexpected layoff, he embraced his role as a stay-at-home dad and, alongside his wife, Danielle, pursued a passion for crafting the perfect bagel. What started as a small delivery operation during the pandemic quickly gained a devoted following, leading to the opening of the first brick-and-mortar location in Ocoee, Florida, in June 2021. Under Jeff’s leadership, the brand has continued to expand, bringing its handcrafted, hot-and-fresh bagels to new communities. Today, Jeff's Bagel Run has 12 locations in four states and an additional 69 shops under development.

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.

With over 16 years of experience in the insurance industry, Kara Pippin has established herself as a knowledgeable and dedicated professional in the franchise insurance sector. Her extensive background and commitment to exceptional customer service have made her a trusted advisor at Intrepid Direct Insurance. Throughout her career, Kara has demonstrated a deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by franchise businesses. She leverages her expertise to provide comprehensive insurance solutions that protect and empower her customers. When she's not assisting customers, Kara enjoys spending time with her husband and two boys, wandering around Kansas City, and gardening.

Toni Ronayne joined Perkins American Food Co. in 2024 as the Brand President. Throughout her career, she has held several progressive leadership positions. Most recently, she served as the Managing Director for Little Caesars Pizza – Canada. She has led both operations and franchise development, domestic and international, for brands, including Freshii and Starbucks. Her wealth of experience in fast casual, QSR, and beverage have positioned the Perkins brand for future growth.

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.

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.

Jason Sobocinski the president and co-founder of Haven Hot Chicken. After working in restaurants as everything from a waiter to a baker, cook and manager, Jason earned his master’s degree in gastronomy at Boston University. A serial entrepreneur, Jason’s hospitality projects include Caseus Fromagerie, Black Hog Brewing, Olmo, Ordinary, Mystic Cheese and Continuum Distilling. As President, Jason heads commercial, driving brand growth, guest engagement and revenue strategy.

Frank Solis is a dedicated marketing professional with expertise in hospitality and multi-unit restaurant marketing. With over 16 years of agency and corporate leadership experience and a lifelong involvement in the restaurant industry, Frank has delivered exceptional results and award-winning campaigns throughout his career. Known for blending creativity with analytical insights, he excels at fostering strong partnerships and cultivating dynamic teams to craft memorable campaigns and drive success through collaboration and problem-solving.

Samuel Stanovich is part of the leadership team of Big Chicken. Prior to joining Big Chicken, Samuel worked with Firehouse Subs brand as an Area Representative and Franchisee. Samuel’s past experiences include: Director Partner Product Development & Industry Relations, National Restaurant Association, President & CEO of the Heritage Corridor Convention and Visitors Bureau, in addition, he is a 12-year veteran of Marriott International. In 2020 Samuel co-authored the top catering book “Catering Domination” and is co-host of the Takeout, Delivery and Catering podcast. Samuel is an alum Johnson and Wales University and adjunct faculty at the College of DuPage.

Mike Stasko serves as the President of Sunny Street Café, a breakfast and lunch restaurant group headquartered in Columbus, Ohio. Known for its fancy pancakes, made-from-scratch classics and family-centric atmosphere, the brand operates 22 locations across Ohio, Texas, Missouri, Illinois, and Alabama. With over 20 years of experience in the restaurant industry, Mike has honed his expertise across marketing, menu development, product strategy, franchise support and operations. His leadership has been instrumental in driving Sunny Street Café's growth, enhancing franchisee success and strengthening the brand’s reputation as a trusted, go-to neighborhood staple for breakfast and lunch.

Yasaman Stewart, CFE, is an accomplished marketing and operations expert with over 20 years of experience in the restaurant and hospitality sectors, including ten years in franchising. Known for her leadership in driving brand growth and profitability, she has successfully developed and executed innovative marketing strategies for major brands, from private labeling to large-scale partnerships and pop-up events. Yasaman’s expertise spans brand strategy, product development, and design, having led projects for Friendly’s Restaurants, Radiance Holdings, and Nothing Bundt Cakes, among others. She holds a BFA from the University of North Texas and certifications in franchise management and retail design.

Jeff Todd is the Chief Development Officer at Launch Entertainment, where he spearheads the company's nationwide growth strategy, expanding its family entertainment centers across the U.S. Before joining Launch in 2022, Jeff served as Vice President of Development at Driven Brands, driving expansion for Meineke, Maaco, and Merlin. With a strong background in investment banking and a wealth of experience in franchise development, Jeff is committed to supporting franchise partners and advancing Launch’s mission to create premier family entertainment destinations.

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.

Jonathan Trapesonian leads franchising and real estate strategies for Habit Burger & Grill, driving the brand's growth through strategic equity development and franchise partnerships. As a member of the YUM! Brands family, he brings over 15 years of expertise in real estate development, market planning, and franchise management, previously serving in key roles at Taco Bell.

Clean Eatz co-founder Evonne Varady launched the business alongside her husband, Don, in 2013 with a mission to “Change Livez” through clean, balanced food, thought-provoking education and motivational support that inspires results. As a personal trainer who wondered why her clients in her kickboxing group were working so hard and not losing weight the idea of creating Clean Eatz was born. She began prepping and packaging healthy meals for them, and six weeks later, they had all lost weight. The prepared meals were wildly successful and before long, she was making hundreds of meals in her home kitchen. She soon realized she needed to rent space to keep up with the demand, and that was the beginning of Clean Eatz. Today, Clean Eatz is a health-focused cafe and meal prep service offering a range of options including dine-in, takeout and meal plans with customizable menus catering to various dietary needs. With 100+ restaurants open in 23 states, Clean Eatz is now one of the fastest-growing franchises on the East Coast.

Kendall Ware is a dynamic leader in the restaurant and franchising industries, bringing over two decades of experience scaling and strengthening some of the nation’s most recognized brands. As a founding board member of Knuckies Hoagies, Kendall plays a key role in shaping the strategic direction and growth of this emerging fast-casual concept. Most recently, Kendall served as Chief Operating Officer of Walk-On's Sports Bistreaux, a high-growth casual dining brand, where he helped refine operational systems and drive national expansion. His leadership journey also includes pivotal roles as President of Cinnabon and CEO of Orange Leaf, where he led brand turnarounds, innovative growth strategies, and operational excellence across thousands of locations. Having operated from both the franchisor and franchisee sides, Kendall brings a unique perspective on the intricacies of restaurant growth, unit-level profitability, and franchise relationships.

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.