Prosper Accelerate
October 22-24, 2025
Wednesday, October 22, 2025
10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
3:00 PM - 5:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM
Susan Adzick, President, McLane Foodservice, Inc.
James Fripp, Chief Culture, Opportunity, and Belonging Officer, YUM! Brands, Inc.
Hattie Hill, CEO, Hattie Hill Enterprises and Prosper Company Board Member
David Jobe, Co-Founder & CEO, Prosper Forum
Luke Kircher, Co-Founder & President, Prosper Company
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM
Join us for a powerful keynote session where we unveil key takeaways from the Accelerate Assessment—a proprietary tool designed to illuminate leadership strengths and growth areas. Whether you’ve taken the assessment or not, this session will guide you through the value of the data, share trends and stories from your peers, and offer clear next steps for leveraging your results to fuel personal and professional growth. Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your self-awareness and leadership impact.
Speakers:
Hattie Hill, CEO, Hattie Hill Enterprises & Prosper Company Board Member
Jennifer King Ph.D., Senior Vice President of Workforce and Education, Bisk
Presented By: Wray Executive Search
3:45 PM - 4:15 PM
Leadership isn’t about playing it safe—it’s about leading with conviction, courage, and humanity.
In this dynamic and deeply personal session, Sean Tresvant, CEO of Taco Bell, opens up about what it truly means to lead an iconic global brand in a world that’s constantly evolving. From navigating bold brand reinventions to championing authenticity at every level, Sean shares the defining moments, mentors, and mindset shifts that shaped his journey to the top.
This is a conversation about visionary leadership, inclusivity, and impact—about showing up real, empowering others, and making decisions that matter. Expect unfiltered insights, practical wisdom, and an inspiring reminder that the most powerful leaders are the ones who lead with both purpose and heart.
Moderated by: James Fripp, Chief Culture, Opportunity, and Belonging Officer, YUM! Brands, Inc.
Speaker: Sean Tresvant, Global Chief Executive Officer, Taco Bell, Chief Consumer Officer, Yum! Brands, Inc.
Presented By: Service Physics
4:15 PM - 4:45 PM
From rapid advances in technology, new economic realities to changing demographics, the pace and complexity of change in foodservice have never been greater. In this session, leaders from across the industry will unpack how those forces are redefining what agility really means and discuss how yesterday’s playbooks for evaluating, implementing and scaling innovation has evolved.
Panelists will share how their decision making and execution approaches have changed.
Expect a candid, pragmatic dialogue about what real agility looks like in practice à the lessons learned, the missteps avoided, and the frameworks that keep teams moving forward when the only constant is change.
Assessment Capabilities: Judgement, Decision Making, Problem Solving, Groth Mindset, Flexibility, Customer Orientation, Vision, Change Leadership
Moderator:
Adam Dumey, Global Vice President Retail, World Wide Technology
Speaker:
Josh Halpern, CEO, Big Chicken & Chief Business Officer, Craveworthy
Jay Spears, Chief Information Officer, CEC Entertainment
Presented By: World Wide Technology
4:45 PM - 5:30 PM
You’ve earned your seat at the table—now what? Leadership is more than just showing up; it’s about how you contribute, grow, and shape the future. In this powerful conversation, panelists will explore the responsibility that comes with being chosen, offering insights into how to direct your career, transform your thinking, and establish yourself as a key player in the future of the workforce. This discussion will challenge attendees to think beyond their current roles and consider how they educate themselves to be more effective leaders. From finance and marketing to operations and supply chain, understanding the bigger picture is critical to long-term success. Join us as we unpack the strategies that will help you become a staple in the evolving workforce, lead with confidence, and build a better, more inclusive table for all.
Moderator:
Hattie Hill, Hattie Hill, Member, Board of Directors, Hattie Hill Enterprises
Speaker:
Cynt Marshall, President & CEO, Marshalling Resources, Consultant and Former CEO of the Dallas Mavericks, Retired AT&T Executive, Author
Presented By: DIRECTV FOR BUSINESS®
5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Presented By: McLane Company, Inc.
Participating Sponsors: Beaver Street Fisheries, Datassential, , Kraft Heinz, Mountaire, Spiceology, Wow Bao, Ziosk
Thursday, October 23, 2025
6:30 AM - 6:00 PM
6:30 AM - 8:15 AM
Presented By: The Kraft Heinz Company
8:00 AM - 10:30 AM
8:00 AM - 8:45 AM
This high-impact conversation explores the discipline, courage, and culture it takes to lead through disruption and drive real growth.
Guided by an expert moderator, the discussion dives into the unfiltered truth about attracting and developing talent, fostering resilient cultures, and making bold leadership decisions that truly move the needle.
This is a call to lean in, challenge the status quo, and discover how today’s most successful leaders are not just adapting—they are rewriting the playbook.
Bring your toughest questions, because this Q&A will be as candid and transformative as the conversation itself.
Moderated by:
Bernard B. Banks, Ph.D., Director, The Doerr Institute for New Leaders, Rice University
Panelists:
Jim Bitticks, President & COO, Dave’s Hot Chicken
Paula Hubbard, Senior Vice President & Chief Human Resource Officer, McLane Company, Inc.
David McKillips, President & CEO, CEC EntertainmentPresident & CEO, CEC Entertainment
Presented By: McLane Company, Inc.
8:45 AM - 9:00 AM
At No Kid Hungry, the mission is simple but transformative: end childhood hunger in America. Beyond the impact on children and families, this work also demonstrates the powerful role purpose can play in shaping leadership and business strategy.
In this session, we will explore the business case for cause-related work through the lens of No Kid Hungry’s mission. You will discover how aligning with purpose-driven initiatives not only creates measurable change in communities but also strengthens brands, inspires teams, and enriches leadership journeys.
Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of how investing in causes like No Kid Hungry can fuel both organizational growth and personal fulfillment. This session will show that purpose is not just good for business, it is essential for building a legacy that lasts.
Moderated by:
David Jobe, Co-Founder & CEO, Prosper Forum
Speakers:
Sara Jamshidi, Sr. Director, Corporate Partnerships at Share Our Strength/No Kid Hungry
Presented by: Share Our Strength/No Kid Hungry
9:00 AM - 9:30 AM
The future belongs to those willing to invest in themselves today. This panel explores how mentorship, professional development, and intentional growth can unlock new opportunities and set you apart in a competitive industry.
Expect an honest conversation about what it really takes to create your own differentiated path—how to find the right mentors, build authentic relationships, and translate lessons learned into career-defining moves. Panelists will share real stories of navigating change, overcoming challenges, and aligning personal development with long-term leadership goals.
Attendees will leave with practical strategies for charting their own unique journey, renewed confidence to step into the next phase of their career, and the inspiration to start building tomorrow’s leadership legacy today.
Moderator:
Laurel R. Elliott, Director of Culinary Consulting Sales & Offer Development, SODEXO/ Entegra
Speakers:
Sheri Miksa, Advisor, GLEAM Network Board Director/Mentor Programs Leader, and 5X Fast Casual Restaurant Chain CEO/President
Dione Moore, District Manager K-12 Nutrition At Schools, Sodexo
Gloria Puentes, Senior Director, Culture & Belonging Marketplace and External Strategic Partnerships with Sodexo
Edie Weintraub, Owner/ Founder, Terra Alma & Founder, Women in Restaurants Circle
Presented by: Sodexo AALF; Sodexo EBRG
9:30 AM - 10:15 AM
The difference between good and great isn’t always a leap—it’s often just inches. When you’re surrounded by the best, do you stand out, blend in, or get overlooked? In this high-impact discussion, Ryan Leak will break down how the smallest refinements in your craft, skillset, and attention to detail can separate those who continue to rise from those who plateau. Whether in leadership, business, or personal growth, the extra effort—the extra inch—can be the defining factor in long-term success. This panel will challenge you to evaluate your habits, refine your approach, and take actionable steps to elevate your performance to the next level. Because in the game of inches, the smallest adjustments can make the biggest impact.
Speaker: Ryan Leak, Chief Executive Officer, The Ryan Leak Group
Presented by: PepsiCo
10:15 AM - 10:45 AM
Presented by: Mi-Benefits
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
Track 1 Personal DevelopmentLocation: Dallas G
Great leadership is not just about strategy, performance, or profit. It is about people. This session explores how emotional intelligence serves as a powerful differentiator in today’s fast-moving business landscape. Learn how balancing EQ with IQ leads to stronger decision-making, healthier partnerships, and more engaged teams.
Through an interactive discussion, participants will tackle real-world “hard calls” leaders face such as layoffs, client disputes, and team conflicts, and uncover how emotional intelligence can shift outcomes for the better.
Walk away with practical tools to strengthen your EQ, integrate diverse perspectives, and understand why empathy is not a soft skill but a long-term driver of business success.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: LEADING | Leadership, Influence, Cultural Agility
Speaker: Tina Davie Donahue, President, Buyers Edge Platform
Presented by: Buyers Edge Platform
Track 2 Marketing Location: Trinity 1
In today’s margin conscious environment, understanding and optimizing unit level economics is more than a financial exercise. It is a competitive advantage. In this tactical, insight driven session, you will learn how top operators and finance leaders are turning traditional cost centers into high performing engines that drive profitability and growth. Discover the metrics that matter most, how to connect financial levers to frontline execution, and how to turn insights into scalable wins across your portfolio. If you want to elevate unit performance, maximize ROI, and drive smarter decisions at every level, this session will give you the tools to make it happen.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: ACHIEVING | Judgement & Decision Making, Diligence, Growth Mindset
Speaker: Laurie Lawhorne, CFO, Better Buzz Coffee Company®
Presented by: Better Buzz Coffee Company®
Track 3 FinanceLocation: Trinity 3
With shifting consumer demand, rising operating costs, and an evolving capital landscape, financial resilience has never been more critical for foodservice operators. In this timely financial update, Shideh Ovaysikia, Managing Director at CohnReznick, will deliver a data-backed view of the sector’s financial health—highlighting trends in capital markets, investment activity, valuation shifts, and profitability drivers across the industry. Attendees will gain valuable insights into where risk and opportunity lie in today’s environment, how leading companies are protecting margins, and what CFOs and operators should prioritize to stay agile and competitive. Whether you’re preparing for growth, navigating headwinds, or building long-term financial strength, this session will equip you with the strategic perspective to move forward with confidence.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: ACHIEVING | Resilience, Diligence, Flexibility
Speaker: Shideh Ovaysikia, Managing Director, CohnReznick
Presented By: CohnReznick
Track 4 Operations/HRLocation: Dallas E
In the fast-moving world of foodservice and hospitality, real leadership shows up in the hard moments—when accountability is needed, tensions are high, and clarity matters most. In this high-impact session, Lois Alexis-Collins of Chipotle shares real-world strategies for navigating tough conversations with courage, empathy, and precision. From coaching underperformers to addressing team conflict, attendees will gain tools they can apply immediately on the floor or in the field. Expect actionable takeaways, relatable stories, and a renewed sense of confidence in leading when it matters most.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: LEADING | Leadership, Change Leadership, Communication
Speaker: Lois Alexis-Collins, Chief People Officer, Field Operations, Chipotle Mexican Grill
Presented By: Chipotle Mexican Grill
Track 5 Supply Chain/Culinary/PurchasingLocation: Dallas F
Leading a supply chain in today’s global market requires more than operational expertise—it demands strategic alignment across teams, regions, and suppliers. This session kicks off with actionable insights on how to manage international vendors, maintain consistency across markets, and adapt to disruptions with agility.
Participants will then break into groups to tackle real-world challenges—like balancing global standards with local flexibility, improving cross-border collaboration, and strengthening team performance. Walk away with practical strategies you can apply immediately to lead more effectively in a global supply chain environment.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: INTERACTING | Teamwork, Communication, Cultural Agility
Speaker: Josh Cobb, Executive Vice President, QSCC
Presented by: Quality Supply Chain Co-op, Inc.
Track 6 Tech/InnovationLocation: Trinity 2
Innovative tech means nothing if it doesn’t work in the real world. This session breaks through the hype to reveal how leading brands are translating digital tools into frontline execution. From AI to automation, we’ll explore how to identify the right innovations, integrate them seamlessly into operations, and drive adoption across teams. Join us for a fast-paced, insight-packed discussion on building scalable, tech-enabled systems that boost performance, cut complexity, and unlock the full potential of your workforce.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Innovation, Problem Solving, Judgement & Decision Making
Speaker: Adam Dumey, Global Vice President Retail, World Wide Technology
Presented by: World Wide Technology
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
Track 1 Personal DevelopmentLocation: Dallas G
This session will challenge you to move beyond passive career management and take full ownership of your professional growth. Learn practical strategies to identify new opportunities, build the skills that matter, navigate setbacks with resilience, and take bold, consistent action to accelerate your leadership journey.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: ACHIEVING | Motivation, Growth Mindset, Resilience
Speaker: Candace Barnes, VP, Global Head of Diversity, Talent & Culture, Papa Johns
Presented by: Papa John’s International, Inc.
Track 2 MarketingLocation: Trinity 1
Marketing drives sales, and with that comes pressure. Learn how marketing leaders build credibility, overcome challenges, and drive meaningful business results. Gain insights into how top CMOs build trust, deliver impact, and meet the high expectations of modern marketing leadership.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: LEADING | Leadership, Influence, Vision
Speaker: Erin Levzow, Strategic Growth Advisor, Batch & Box
Presented by: Byte-Sized & Bossy
Track 3 FinanceLocation: Trinity 3
An acquisition can be a powerful catalyst for growth — but it also brings new complexities, expectations, and financial realities. In this candid and tactical session, James McGehee, CFO of Dave’s Hot Chicken, will share his firsthand experience navigating the post acquisition transition after the brand’s recent investment by Roark Capital. Learn how to build a financial playbook that balances innovation with discipline, aligns new stakeholder priorities with operational realities, and supports both cultural integration and future scaling. Whether you are preparing for acquisition, in the midst of one, or navigating the next chapter of growth, this session will provide actionable insights to help you lead through the transition and position your business for long term success.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Judgement & Decision Making, Problem Solving, Flexibility
Speaker: James McGehee, CFO and Founding Partner, Dave’s Hot Chicken
Presented by: Dave’s Hot Chicken
Track 4 Operations/HRLocation: Dallas E
Hospitality is a people business. Learn proven strategies to identify, develop, and retain top talent while helping them grow across different areas of the organization. Walk away with practical tools to create clear growth paths, foster cross functional learning, and build leadership readiness throughout your teams.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: INTERACTING | Teamwork, Communication, Enablement
Speaker: Robert Clunie, Director, DLR Risk Management & Compliance, Disney
Presented by: Prosper Forum
Track 5 Supply Chain/Culinary/PurchasingLocation: Dallas F
In this hands-on think tank, you will learn how to translate market data into real-world strategies that drive smarter decisions across purchasing, pricing, and operations.
First, the session will break down the exact indicators every operator should be tracking right now and demonstrate how to apply them to forecast food costs, build vendor leverage, and improve margin performance.
Then, in small working groups, you will apply those insights to real scenarios, comparing approaches, building smarter models, and walking away with two to three tangible strategies you can take back to your organization and implement immediately.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Judgement & Decision Making, Problem Solving, Innovation
Speaker: Hans Schatz, Executive Vice President, Cut + Dry
Presented by: Cut + Dry
Track 6 Tech/InnovationLocation: Trinity 2
How do you know which tools, platforms, and partners will work for your stage of growth? Walk away with a practical framework for evaluating, testing, and deploying technology investments that drive ROI and enhance guest experiences. Learn a proven framework for building a tech stack that matches your company’s size, growth stage, and evolving operational needs.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Innovation, Judgement & Decision Making, Growth Mindset
Speaker: Suresh Iyer, Chief Technology Officer, Henny Penny
Presented by: Henny Penny
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Presented by: Mountaire Farms
1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
Track 1 Personal DevelopmentLocation: Dallas G
Great leaders ask great questions. Learn how to develop the skill of asking questions that drive clarity, action, and innovation across your teams. Explore techniques for framing questions that unlock understanding, foster better decision-making, and elevate team performance.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Problem Solving, Communication, Growth Mindset
Speaker: Bernard B. Banks, Ph.D., Director, The Doerr Institute for New Leaders, Rice University
Assessment Characteristics: Problem Solving, Growth Mindset, Communications, Influence
Presented by: Prosper Accelerate
Track 2 MarketingLocation: Trinity 1
How can data fuel creativity, not stifle it? Explore how leading marketers and culinary teams collaborate to design menu offerings that resonate with evolving consumer tastes.
Discover how to leverage data as a creative tool to design menus that align with guest expectations and market trends.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Innovation, Imagination, Customer Orientation
Speaker:
Stacey Floberg, Associate Director, Customer Experience at Datassential
Assessment Characteristic: Influence, Innovation, Growth Mindset and Communication
Presented by: Datassential
Track 4 Operations/HRLocation: Dallas E
In too many brands, marketing, ops, and HR operate in isolation. Discover how to foster cross-functional leadership, tear down organizational silos, and create teams that win together. Gain ideas to build stronger collaboration across departments and foster an environment where shared success becomes the norm.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: INTERACTING | Teamwork, Communication, Cultural Agility
Speaker: James Fripp, Chief Culture, Opportunity, and Belonging Officer, YUM! Brands, Inc.
Presented by: YUM! Brands, Inc.
Track 5 Supply Chain/Culinary/Purchasing
This practical breakout tackles the critical balancing act of leading modern supply chains: integrating genuine empathy with robust accountability. Explore how fostering understanding and strong relationships with suppliers, partners, and internal teams—while simultaneously upholding clear standards and driving performance builds resilience, improves crisis response, and boosts cross-functional collaboration. Join us for an honest discussion on navigating this essential leadership challenge.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: LEADING | Leadership, Ethics, Communication
Speaker: Jeff Burrus, Vice President of Supply Chain, El Pollo Loco, Inc.
Track 6 Tech/InnovationLocation: Trinity 2
From labor shortages to food waste to safety, AI is driving operational efficiency like never before. Learn how leading brands are solving complex problems and implementing AI in ways that drive tangible outcomes. See how AI is being used today to tackle practical challenges, with real-world case studies and ideas you can take back to your business.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Innovation, Problem Solving, Flexibility
Speaker: Maria Zhang, CEO & Co-Founder, Palona AI
Presented by: Palona AI
Presented by: El Pollo Loco, Inc.
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
Presented by: Mi-Benefits
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
John Barone Explores What’s Ahead: Key Macro-Economic, Geopolitical, and Commodity Trends Join industry expert John Barone as he unpacks the critical macro-economic forces, geopolitical dynamics, and big-commodity shifts shaping the road ahead. Gain a strategic vantage point on what to watch, when to act, and how to stay prepared for the mile markers that matter most.
Presenter: John Barone, President, Market Vision
Presented by: Cut + Dry
3:45 PM - 4:20 PM
What leadership qualities truly matter at the highest levels? In this dynamic session, discover the six most critical traits that drive high-impact leadership. Through real-world examples and practical insights, you will explore why these qualities are essential for guiding teams, navigating challenges, and sustaining long-term success. Walk away with actionable strategies to elevate your own leadership approach and strengthen your executive toolkit.
Moderator:
James Fripp, Chief Culture, Opportunity, and Belonging Officer, YUM! Brands, Inc.
Panelists:
Susan Adzick, President, McLane Foodservice, Inc.
Greg Creed, Global Marketer, Author, and Retired CEO
Presented by: McLane Foodservice, Inc.
4:20 PM - 5:05 PM
In this exhilarating 45-minute session, Andrew Davis (and his Digital Doppelgänger) will show you how to build your very own AI-powered strategic collaborators. He’ll show you the four-step iterative process one savvy marketer uses to augment their unique writing style, saving 39 valuable working hours. You’ll even witness AI’s power to destroy trust and learn the only way to avoid it. Most importantly, Andrew will demonstrate why AI can make YOU more valuable than ever in an era where visionary leadership must bridge geopolitics, sustainability, and technological transformation. So, are you ready to create your first Digital Doppelgänger and help shape the future of global food systems?
Assessment Capabilities: Imagination, Resilience, Ethics, Change Leadership
Presenter: Andrew Davis, Keynote Speaker & Author, Monumental Shift
Presented by: DataDelivers, LLC
5:05 PM - 5:50 PM
In a world that celebrates perfection and constant achievement, true leadership requires the courage to show up fully, even when life, career, or circumstances leave us feeling broken. In this raw and inspiring conversation, moderator Dan Simons will sit down with Kim Twiggs, who will share her personal journey and lessons learned on embracing vulnerability, resilience, and authenticity. Together, they’ll explore how reframing failure, finding strength in our scars, and leading with honesty and wholeness can unlock deeper connection, greater impact, and more sustainable success. Because sometimes, it’s the moments when we feel most broken that prepare us to lead with the greatest power.
Moderator:
David Jobe, Co-Founder & CEO, Prosper Company
Speaker:
Speaker: Kimberly Twiggs, Vice President of Market Development at DIRECTV, Hospitality & Institutions and Transportation, DIRECTV FOR BUSINESS®
Presented By: DIRECTV FOR BUSINESS®
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Presented by: Point B & Venatrust
Friday, October 24, 2025
6:45 AM - 12:30 PM
6:45 AM - 8:00 AM
Presented by: C.H. Guenther & Son
8:00 AM - 8:20 AM
8:00 AM - 8:20 AM
As we begin today’s General Session, we’ll take time to reflect on the insights, breakthroughs, and connections that have defined the first two days of the Accelerate Conference and yesterday’s Think Tank Breakouts. This is a moment to come together as a community—sharing what inspired you, what challenged you, and what you’ll take back to strengthen your teams and organizations. Together, we’ll turn key takeaways into lasting transformation.
James Fripp, Chief Culture, Opportunity, and Belonging Officer, YUM! Brands, Inc.
Hattie Hill, CEO, Hattie Hill Enterprises and Prosper Company Board Member
David Jobe, Co-Founder & CEO, Prosper Forum
Luke Kircher, Co-Founder & President, Prosper Company
8:30 AM - 9:15 AM
Track 1 Personal DevelopmentLocation: Dallas G
Being great is not fair, and it is not easy. This session explores the hard truths of leadership and the sacrifices required to excel at the highest levels of your organization. Walk away with a clear understanding of the mindset shifts and personal commitments needed to lead with impact and sustain long term success.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: LEADING | Leadership, Resilience, Motivation
Speaker: James Pogue, Ph.D, President/CEO, JP Enterprises
Presented by: JP Enterprises
Track 2 MarketingLocation: Trinity 1
Now you’ve seen how powerful your own Digital Doppelgänger can be, it’s time to build one uniquely yours. Yes, bring your laptop, open your ChatGPT account, and watch LIVE as Andrew builds a sophisticated, strategic, and powerful Digital Doppelgänger alongside you in less than 35 minutes. Have mission-critical tasks that demand your strategic attention? Let’s transform them through AI! Experience firsthand how to evolve generative AI into your most trusted advisor – one capable of amplifying your unique leadership style, strategic thinking, and decision-making capabilities. Are you ready to elevate your executive impact? Drewdini is.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Innovation, Problem Solving, Enablement
Speaker: Andrew Davis, Keynote Speaker & Author, Monumental Shift
Assessment Characteristics: Problem Solving, Growth Mindset, Teamwork, Enablement
Presented by: DataDelivers, LLC
Track 3 MarketingLocation: Trinity 3
Supplier relationships aren’t just about procurement. Learn how to collaborate with suppliers to unlock co-marketing opportunities, drive innovation, and elevate your brand. Discover proven tactics for building supplier partnerships that support innovation, enhance marketing campaigns, and create business value.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: INTERACTING | Customer Orientation, Communication, Teamwork
Speaker: Derek Gaskins, Head of Guest Experience, bp
Presented by: BP
Track 4 Operations/HRLocation: Dallas E
In this Think Tank, the conversation will pull back the curtain on the realities of scaling. What does it really take to grow without burning out your team? How do you protect the culture that got you here while still creating systems that can handle what’s next? And why is betting on your people the smartest strategy you can make?
This will not be a lecture—it’s a working session. You’ll trade ideas, challenge assumptions, and leave with practical takeaways you can put to work right away, no matter the size of your organization. If you’re ready to think bigger about growth, this is your chance to gain insights from someone who has built it from the ground up.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: LEADING | Leadership, Enablement, Change Leadership
Speaker: Jim Bitticks, President & COO, Dave’s Hot Chicken
Presented by: Dave’s Hot Chicken
Track 5 Supply Chain/Culinary/PurchasingLocation: Trinity 2
What is coming next in the foodservice supply chain? Explore emerging trends, evolving customer demands, and new technologies that will transform how brands source, distribute, and serve. Gain a clear view of the supply chain strategies and innovations that will shape the future of foodservice.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Judgement & Decision Making, Innovation, Vision
Speaker: Nelson Griffin, Chief Supply Chain Officer, Wawa
Presented by: Wawa
Track 6 Tech/InnovationLocation: Trinity 2
How can brands embrace technology without losing the human essence that defines hospitality? This session will explore strategies for maintaining warmth, connection, and authentic service while adopting digital tools. Walk away with practical approaches to integrating technology that enhances the guest experience while preserving brand personality and human connection.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: INTERACTING | Cultural Agility, Communication, Ethics
Speaker: Kirk Grogan, COO, TipHaus Inc.
Presented by: TipHaus Inc.
9:30 AM - 10:15 AM
Track 1 Personal DevelopmentLocation: Dallas G
Most leaders don’t fail because they can’t solve problems — they fail because they’re solving the wrong ones. In this fast-paced, practical session, Service Physics gives restaurant and foodservice executives a powerful lens to quickly diagnose challenges across five domains: Clear, Complicated, Complex, Chaotic, and Disordered — inspired by the Cynefin model.
You’ll learn how to:
– Identify what kind of problem you’re actually facing
– Avoid spending time on low-leverage solutions
– Match the right leadership approach to each type of challenge
– Use waste as an entry point to uncover deeper issues
– Focus your energy where it drives real impact
Through real-world examples and hands-on tools, you’ll leave with a repeatable method for cutting through noise, aligning your team, and showing up as the leader the moment demands.
This is your cheat code for solving smarter — not just faster.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Problem Solving, Flexibility, Leadership
Speaker: Steve Crowley, Co-Founder & Principal Consultant, Service Physics
Presented by: Service Physics
Track 2 Marketing
Supplier relationships aren’t just about procurement. Learn how to collaborate with suppliers to unlock co-marketing opportunities, drive innovation, and elevate your brand. Discover proven tactics for building supplier partnerships that support innovation, enhance marketing campaigns, and create business value.
Speaker: Derek Gaskins, Head of Guest Experience, bp
Presented by: BP
Track 3 Finance
The marketing landscape is evolving at a rapid pace. In this session, uncover the emerging trends, from AI driven personalization to new loyalty strategies, that will shape how brands connect with consumers in the years ahead. Learn how to adapt, innovate, and position your brand for lasting impact.
Track 4 Operations/HRLocation: Dallas E
This session dives into how operational leaders and frontline managers can work in lockstep to drive performance. Discover practical frameworks for aligning leadership across all levels, empowering teams with clarity, and improving communication to ensure consistent execution. When leaders are unified, the results speak for themselves.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: LEADING | Leadership, Communication, Enablement
Speaker: Samuel Stanovich, Senior Vice President, Franchise Leadership, Big Chicken
Presented by: Big Chicken
Track 5 Supply Chain/Culinary/Purchasing
Build supplier relationships that go beyond transactions. This session will cover key do’s and don’ts when engaging with vendors and how to create partnerships that drive mutual success.
Discover actionable tips to foster trust, collaboration, and innovation in your supplier partnerships.
Track 6 Tech/InnovationLocation: Trinity 2
In the age of AI and data, successful leaders and teams aren’t the ones with the most information, they’re the ones asking the best questions. In this interactive session, discover how to cut through complexity with Decision Science. You’ll learn classic decision-making frameworks as well as Seaker’s 5-Steps to Smart Decision-Making. Discover why harnessing human insight to drive AI inputs, framing the right questions, aligning decisions with values, stress-testing risks and providing clear communication gives you the ultimate advantage. Leave with a repeatable playbook that helps your team align, move faster, with greater confidence to make smart, strategic decisions.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Judgement & Decision Making, Problem Solving, Imagination
Speaker: Ashley Robinson, CEO & Head of Strategy, The Seaker Group
Presented by: The Seaker Group
10:30 AM - 11:15 AM
Track 1 Personal Development
Shortcuts do not build great leaders or great relationships. This session will challenge emerging leaders to do the work consistently and deliberately over the long term, knowing that trust and reputation are earned through action, not intention. Learn why sustained hard work, authentic relationship building, and intentional personal brand development are critical to leadership success. Walk away with strategies to stay focused, engaged, and resilient through every phase of your growth journey.
Track 2 MarketingLocation: Trinity 1
Over the past few years, the definition of value in the restaurant industry has shifted dramatically. No longer viewed solely through the lens of low prices, value now encompasses quality, experience, convenience, and consumer trust. Kelley Fechner will explore which brands are emerging as leaders and winning with consumers. In addition, Kelley will lead an interactive session sharing best practices for working with data partners to gain quick and efficient actionable insights. Attendees will walk away with a deeper understanding of how value is influencing today’s competitive landscape and how to leverage data partnerships for smarter, faster decision-making.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Innovation, Customer Orientation, Problem Solving
Speaker: Kelley Fechner, VP Customer Experience, Datassential
Presented by: Datassential
Track 3 FinanceLocation: Trinity 3
Today’s most resilient companies understand that driving financial performance and advancing purpose are not opposing goals. They are powerful partners. In this dynamic session, leading CFOs and strategists will share how they are embedding purpose into financial frameworks to unlock long term value, attract top talent, and build lasting customer loyalty. Explore practical ways to align capital allocation, resource planning, and performance metrics with mission driven priorities without sacrificing profitability. If you are ready to elevate both purpose and profit in your finance strategy, this session will show you how to lead the way.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: LEADING | Vision, Ethics, Change Leadership
Speaker: Scott Drake, CFO, CEC Entertainment
Presented by: CEC Entertainment
Track 4 Operations/HRLocation: Dallas E
No two brands should feel the same, and neither should the way they operate or engage their people. This session will explore how intentional leadership can shape distinctive and authentic cultures across restaurant brands. Learn how to align hiring, development, daily operations, and guest interactions with the unique DNA of your brand, ensuring that every touchpoint reflects your vision and values. Walk away with practical strategies for building operational systems and leadership habits that preserve and amplify the essence of your brand at every level.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: LEADING | Vision, Leadership, Cultural Agility
Speaker: Scott Taylor, Chief Executive Officer, R&R Brands
Presented by: R&R Brands
Track 5 Supply Chain/Culinary/Purchasing
In this interactive Think Tank, participants will explore the technologies and digital solutions reshaping the future of supply chain management in foodservice—from advanced procurement platforms to real-time data analytics and predictive insights.
The session will open with a deep dive into how forward-thinking brands are leveraging data to drive efficiency, strengthen supplier partnerships, and build supply chains that are smarter, faster, and more resilient.
Participants will then move into small-group discussions to apply these concepts to real-world challenges. You’ll walk away with a clear framework for evaluating your current systems, identifying high-impact areas for innovation, and implementing two to three actionable strategies to elevate your supply chain performance.
Track 6 Tech/InnovationLocation: Trinity 2
There is no finish line in innovation. Learn how top companies create cultures of relentless iteration by deploying, measuring, refining, and scaling new technologies without waiting for perfection. Explore practical techniques to build a culture of continuous improvement, refine solutions over time, and drive consistent innovation across your organization.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: ACHIEVING | Growth Mindset, Diligence, Flexibility
Speaker: Shokouh Shafiei, President & CEO, DSA Signage
Presented by: DSA Signage
11:30 AM - 12:15 PM
11:30 AM - 12:15 PM
“Top-performing restaurant brands are not succeeding by chance. They are leveraging operational intelligence, labor optimization, marketing and experience design in ways that consistently outperform the market.
In this session, Victor Fernandez of Black Box Intelligence will present a rigorous analysis of five macro-level trends shaping performance across workforce, guest experience, and financial outcomes. Backed by proprietary data direct from restaurant brands, this session will expose the structural and behavioral differences between the top and bottom quartiles of the industry.
The discussion will explore how seemingly incremental improvements, such as targeted onboarding adjustments or slight shifts in operational focus—can generate meaningful financial returns. More importantly, it will unpack how high-performing brands build systems that link employee engagement, guest loyalty, and unit economics into a sustainable performance model.
This session is designed for executives seeking to pressure test their current assumptions, benchmark against best-in-class operators, and identify performance levers that are often overlooked but critical to long-term growth.”
Speaker: Victor Fernandez, Chief Insights Officer, Black Box Intelligence
Presented By: Black Box Intelligence
12:15 PM - 1:00 PM
10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
3:00 PM - 5:30 PM
3:00 PM - 3:15 PM
Susan Adzick, President, McLane Foodservice, Inc.
James Fripp, Chief Culture, Opportunity, and Belonging Officer, YUM! Brands, Inc.
Hattie Hill, CEO, Hattie Hill Enterprises and Prosper Company Board Member
David Jobe, Co-Founder & CEO, Prosper Forum
Luke Kircher, Co-Founder & President, Prosper Company
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM
Join us for a powerful keynote session where we unveil key takeaways from the Accelerate Assessment—a proprietary tool designed to illuminate leadership strengths and growth areas. Whether you’ve taken the assessment or not, this session will guide you through the value of the data, share trends and stories from your peers, and offer clear next steps for leveraging your results to fuel personal and professional growth. Don’t miss this opportunity to deepen your self-awareness and leadership impact.
Speakers:
Hattie Hill, CEO, Hattie Hill Enterprises & Prosper Company Board Member
Jennifer King Ph.D., Senior Vice President of Workforce and Education, Bisk
Presented By: Wray Executive Search
3:45 PM - 4:15 PM
Leadership isn’t about playing it safe—it’s about leading with conviction, courage, and humanity.
In this dynamic and deeply personal session, Sean Tresvant, CEO of Taco Bell, opens up about what it truly means to lead an iconic global brand in a world that’s constantly evolving. From navigating bold brand reinventions to championing authenticity at every level, Sean shares the defining moments, mentors, and mindset shifts that shaped his journey to the top.
This is a conversation about visionary leadership, inclusivity, and impact—about showing up real, empowering others, and making decisions that matter. Expect unfiltered insights, practical wisdom, and an inspiring reminder that the most powerful leaders are the ones who lead with both purpose and heart.
Moderated by: James Fripp, Chief Culture, Opportunity, and Belonging Officer, YUM! Brands, Inc.
Speaker: Sean Tresvant, Global Chief Executive Officer, Taco Bell, Chief Consumer Officer, Yum! Brands, Inc.
Presented By: Service Physics
4:15 PM - 4:45 PM
From rapid advances in technology, new economic realities to changing demographics, the pace and complexity of change in foodservice have never been greater. In this session, leaders from across the industry will unpack how those forces are redefining what agility really means and discuss how yesterday’s playbooks for evaluating, implementing and scaling innovation has evolved.
Panelists will share how their decision making and execution approaches have changed.
Expect a candid, pragmatic dialogue about what real agility looks like in practice à the lessons learned, the missteps avoided, and the frameworks that keep teams moving forward when the only constant is change.
Assessment Capabilities: Judgement, Decision Making, Problem Solving, Groth Mindset, Flexibility, Customer Orientation, Vision, Change Leadership
Moderator:
Adam Dumey, Global Vice President Retail, World Wide Technology
Speaker:
Josh Halpern, CEO, Big Chicken & Chief Business Officer, Craveworthy
Jay Spears, Chief Information Officer, CEC Entertainment
Presented By: World Wide Technology
4:45 PM - 5:30 PM
You’ve earned your seat at the table—now what? Leadership is more than just showing up; it’s about how you contribute, grow, and shape the future. In this powerful conversation, panelists will explore the responsibility that comes with being chosen, offering insights into how to direct your career, transform your thinking, and establish yourself as a key player in the future of the workforce. This discussion will challenge attendees to think beyond their current roles and consider how they educate themselves to be more effective leaders. From finance and marketing to operations and supply chain, understanding the bigger picture is critical to long-term success. Join us as we unpack the strategies that will help you become a staple in the evolving workforce, lead with confidence, and build a better, more inclusive table for all.
Moderator:
Hattie Hill, Hattie Hill, Member, Board of Directors, Hattie Hill Enterprises
Speaker:
Cynt Marshall, President & CEO, Marshalling Resources, Consultant and Former CEO of the Dallas Mavericks, Retired AT&T Executive, Author
Presented By: DIRECTV FOR BUSINESS®
5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Presented By: McLane Company, Inc.
Participating Sponsors: Beaver Street Fisheries, Datassential, , Kraft Heinz, Mountaire, Spiceology, Wow Bao, Ziosk
6:30 AM - 6:00 PM
6:30 AM - 8:15 AM
Presented By: The Kraft Heinz Company
8:00 AM - 10:30 AM
8:00 AM - 8:45 AM
This high-impact conversation explores the discipline, courage, and culture it takes to lead through disruption and drive real growth.
Guided by an expert moderator, the discussion dives into the unfiltered truth about attracting and developing talent, fostering resilient cultures, and making bold leadership decisions that truly move the needle.
This is a call to lean in, challenge the status quo, and discover how today’s most successful leaders are not just adapting—they are rewriting the playbook.
Bring your toughest questions, because this Q&A will be as candid and transformative as the conversation itself.
Moderated by:
Bernard B. Banks, Ph.D., Director, The Doerr Institute for New Leaders, Rice University
Panelists:
Jim Bitticks, President & COO, Dave’s Hot Chicken
Paula Hubbard, Senior Vice President & Chief Human Resource Officer, McLane Company, Inc.
David McKillips, President & CEO, CEC EntertainmentPresident & CEO, CEC Entertainment
Presented By: McLane Company, Inc.
8:45 AM - 9:00 AM
At No Kid Hungry, the mission is simple but transformative: end childhood hunger in America. Beyond the impact on children and families, this work also demonstrates the powerful role purpose can play in shaping leadership and business strategy.
In this session, we will explore the business case for cause-related work through the lens of No Kid Hungry’s mission. You will discover how aligning with purpose-driven initiatives not only creates measurable change in communities but also strengthens brands, inspires teams, and enriches leadership journeys.
Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of how investing in causes like No Kid Hungry can fuel both organizational growth and personal fulfillment. This session will show that purpose is not just good for business, it is essential for building a legacy that lasts.
Moderated by:
David Jobe, Co-Founder & CEO, Prosper Forum
Speakers:
Sara Jamshidi, Sr. Director, Corporate Partnerships at Share Our Strength/No Kid Hungry
Presented by: Share Our Strength/No Kid Hungry
9:00 AM - 9:30 AM
The future belongs to those willing to invest in themselves today. This panel explores how mentorship, professional development, and intentional growth can unlock new opportunities and set you apart in a competitive industry.
Expect an honest conversation about what it really takes to create your own differentiated path—how to find the right mentors, build authentic relationships, and translate lessons learned into career-defining moves. Panelists will share real stories of navigating change, overcoming challenges, and aligning personal development with long-term leadership goals.
Attendees will leave with practical strategies for charting their own unique journey, renewed confidence to step into the next phase of their career, and the inspiration to start building tomorrow’s leadership legacy today.
Moderator:
Laurel R. Elliott, Director of Culinary Consulting Sales & Offer Development, SODEXO/ Entegra
Speakers:
Sheri Miksa, Advisor, GLEAM Network Board Director/Mentor Programs Leader, and 5X Fast Casual Restaurant Chain CEO/President
Dione Moore, District Manager K-12 Nutrition At Schools, Sodexo
Gloria Puentes, Senior Director, Culture & Belonging Marketplace and External Strategic Partnerships with Sodexo
Edie Weintraub, Owner/ Founder, Terra Alma & Founder, Women in Restaurants Circle
Presented by: Sodexo AALF; Sodexo EBRG
9:30 AM - 10:15 AM
The difference between good and great isn’t always a leap—it’s often just inches. When you’re surrounded by the best, do you stand out, blend in, or get overlooked? In this high-impact discussion, Ryan Leak will break down how the smallest refinements in your craft, skillset, and attention to detail can separate those who continue to rise from those who plateau. Whether in leadership, business, or personal growth, the extra effort—the extra inch—can be the defining factor in long-term success. This panel will challenge you to evaluate your habits, refine your approach, and take actionable steps to elevate your performance to the next level. Because in the game of inches, the smallest adjustments can make the biggest impact.
Speaker: Ryan Leak, Chief Executive Officer, The Ryan Leak Group
Presented by: PepsiCo
10:15 AM - 10:45 AM
Presented by: Mi-Benefits
10:45 AM - 11:30 AM
Track 1 Personal DevelopmentLocation: Dallas G
Great leadership is not just about strategy, performance, or profit. It is about people. This session explores how emotional intelligence serves as a powerful differentiator in today’s fast-moving business landscape. Learn how balancing EQ with IQ leads to stronger decision-making, healthier partnerships, and more engaged teams.
Through an interactive discussion, participants will tackle real-world “hard calls” leaders face such as layoffs, client disputes, and team conflicts, and uncover how emotional intelligence can shift outcomes for the better.
Walk away with practical tools to strengthen your EQ, integrate diverse perspectives, and understand why empathy is not a soft skill but a long-term driver of business success.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: LEADING | Leadership, Influence, Cultural Agility
Speaker: Tina Davie Donahue, President, Buyers Edge Platform
Presented by: Buyers Edge Platform
Track 2 Marketing Location: Trinity 1
In today’s margin conscious environment, understanding and optimizing unit level economics is more than a financial exercise. It is a competitive advantage. In this tactical, insight driven session, you will learn how top operators and finance leaders are turning traditional cost centers into high performing engines that drive profitability and growth. Discover the metrics that matter most, how to connect financial levers to frontline execution, and how to turn insights into scalable wins across your portfolio. If you want to elevate unit performance, maximize ROI, and drive smarter decisions at every level, this session will give you the tools to make it happen.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: ACHIEVING | Judgement & Decision Making, Diligence, Growth Mindset
Speaker: Laurie Lawhorne, CFO, Better Buzz Coffee Company®
Presented by: Better Buzz Coffee Company®
Track 3 FinanceLocation: Trinity 3
With shifting consumer demand, rising operating costs, and an evolving capital landscape, financial resilience has never been more critical for foodservice operators. In this timely financial update, Shideh Ovaysikia, Managing Director at CohnReznick, will deliver a data-backed view of the sector’s financial health—highlighting trends in capital markets, investment activity, valuation shifts, and profitability drivers across the industry. Attendees will gain valuable insights into where risk and opportunity lie in today’s environment, how leading companies are protecting margins, and what CFOs and operators should prioritize to stay agile and competitive. Whether you’re preparing for growth, navigating headwinds, or building long-term financial strength, this session will equip you with the strategic perspective to move forward with confidence.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: ACHIEVING | Resilience, Diligence, Flexibility
Speaker: Shideh Ovaysikia, Managing Director, CohnReznick
Presented By: CohnReznick
Track 4 Operations/HRLocation: Dallas E
In the fast-moving world of foodservice and hospitality, real leadership shows up in the hard moments—when accountability is needed, tensions are high, and clarity matters most. In this high-impact session, Lois Alexis-Collins of Chipotle shares real-world strategies for navigating tough conversations with courage, empathy, and precision. From coaching underperformers to addressing team conflict, attendees will gain tools they can apply immediately on the floor or in the field. Expect actionable takeaways, relatable stories, and a renewed sense of confidence in leading when it matters most.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: LEADING | Leadership, Change Leadership, Communication
Speaker: Lois Alexis-Collins, Chief People Officer, Field Operations, Chipotle Mexican Grill
Presented By: Chipotle Mexican Grill
Track 5 Supply Chain/Culinary/PurchasingLocation: Dallas F
Leading a supply chain in today’s global market requires more than operational expertise—it demands strategic alignment across teams, regions, and suppliers. This session kicks off with actionable insights on how to manage international vendors, maintain consistency across markets, and adapt to disruptions with agility.
Participants will then break into groups to tackle real-world challenges—like balancing global standards with local flexibility, improving cross-border collaboration, and strengthening team performance. Walk away with practical strategies you can apply immediately to lead more effectively in a global supply chain environment.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: INTERACTING | Teamwork, Communication, Cultural Agility
Speaker: Josh Cobb, Executive Vice President, QSCC
Presented by: Quality Supply Chain Co-op, Inc.
Track 6 Tech/InnovationLocation: Trinity 2
Innovative tech means nothing if it doesn’t work in the real world. This session breaks through the hype to reveal how leading brands are translating digital tools into frontline execution. From AI to automation, we’ll explore how to identify the right innovations, integrate them seamlessly into operations, and drive adoption across teams. Join us for a fast-paced, insight-packed discussion on building scalable, tech-enabled systems that boost performance, cut complexity, and unlock the full potential of your workforce.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Innovation, Problem Solving, Judgement & Decision Making
Speaker: Adam Dumey, Global Vice President Retail, World Wide Technology
Presented by: World Wide Technology
11:45 AM - 12:30 PM
Track 1 Personal DevelopmentLocation: Dallas G
This session will challenge you to move beyond passive career management and take full ownership of your professional growth. Learn practical strategies to identify new opportunities, build the skills that matter, navigate setbacks with resilience, and take bold, consistent action to accelerate your leadership journey.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: ACHIEVING | Motivation, Growth Mindset, Resilience
Speaker: Candace Barnes, VP, Global Head of Diversity, Talent & Culture, Papa Johns
Presented by: Papa John’s International, Inc.
Track 2 MarketingLocation: Trinity 1
Marketing drives sales, and with that comes pressure. Learn how marketing leaders build credibility, overcome challenges, and drive meaningful business results. Gain insights into how top CMOs build trust, deliver impact, and meet the high expectations of modern marketing leadership.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: LEADING | Leadership, Influence, Vision
Speaker: Erin Levzow, Strategic Growth Advisor, Batch & Box
Presented by: Byte-Sized & Bossy
Track 3 FinanceLocation: Trinity 3
An acquisition can be a powerful catalyst for growth — but it also brings new complexities, expectations, and financial realities. In this candid and tactical session, James McGehee, CFO of Dave’s Hot Chicken, will share his firsthand experience navigating the post acquisition transition after the brand’s recent investment by Roark Capital. Learn how to build a financial playbook that balances innovation with discipline, aligns new stakeholder priorities with operational realities, and supports both cultural integration and future scaling. Whether you are preparing for acquisition, in the midst of one, or navigating the next chapter of growth, this session will provide actionable insights to help you lead through the transition and position your business for long term success.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Judgement & Decision Making, Problem Solving, Flexibility
Speaker: James McGehee, CFO and Founding Partner, Dave’s Hot Chicken
Presented by: Dave’s Hot Chicken
Track 4 Operations/HRLocation: Dallas E
Hospitality is a people business. Learn proven strategies to identify, develop, and retain top talent while helping them grow across different areas of the organization. Walk away with practical tools to create clear growth paths, foster cross functional learning, and build leadership readiness throughout your teams.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: INTERACTING | Teamwork, Communication, Enablement
Speaker: Robert Clunie, Director, DLR Risk Management & Compliance, Disney
Presented by: Prosper Forum
Track 5 Supply Chain/Culinary/PurchasingLocation: Dallas F
In this hands-on think tank, you will learn how to translate market data into real-world strategies that drive smarter decisions across purchasing, pricing, and operations.
First, the session will break down the exact indicators every operator should be tracking right now and demonstrate how to apply them to forecast food costs, build vendor leverage, and improve margin performance.
Then, in small working groups, you will apply those insights to real scenarios, comparing approaches, building smarter models, and walking away with two to three tangible strategies you can take back to your organization and implement immediately.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Judgement & Decision Making, Problem Solving, Innovation
Speaker: Hans Schatz, Executive Vice President, Cut + Dry
Presented by: Cut + Dry
Track 6 Tech/InnovationLocation: Trinity 2
How do you know which tools, platforms, and partners will work for your stage of growth? Walk away with a practical framework for evaluating, testing, and deploying technology investments that drive ROI and enhance guest experiences. Learn a proven framework for building a tech stack that matches your company’s size, growth stage, and evolving operational needs.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Innovation, Judgement & Decision Making, Growth Mindset
Speaker: Suresh Iyer, Chief Technology Officer, Henny Penny
Presented by: Henny Penny
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
Presented by: Mountaire Farms
1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
Track 1 Personal DevelopmentLocation: Dallas G
Great leaders ask great questions. Learn how to develop the skill of asking questions that drive clarity, action, and innovation across your teams. Explore techniques for framing questions that unlock understanding, foster better decision-making, and elevate team performance.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Problem Solving, Communication, Growth Mindset
Speaker: Bernard B. Banks, Ph.D., Director, The Doerr Institute for New Leaders, Rice University
Assessment Characteristics: Problem Solving, Growth Mindset, Communications, Influence
Presented by: Prosper Accelerate
Track 2 MarketingLocation: Trinity 1
How can data fuel creativity, not stifle it? Explore how leading marketers and culinary teams collaborate to design menu offerings that resonate with evolving consumer tastes.
Discover how to leverage data as a creative tool to design menus that align with guest expectations and market trends.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Innovation, Imagination, Customer Orientation
Speaker:
Stacey Floberg, Associate Director, Customer Experience at Datassential
Assessment Characteristic: Influence, Innovation, Growth Mindset and Communication
Presented by: Datassential
Track 4 Operations/HRLocation: Dallas E
In too many brands, marketing, ops, and HR operate in isolation. Discover how to foster cross-functional leadership, tear down organizational silos, and create teams that win together. Gain ideas to build stronger collaboration across departments and foster an environment where shared success becomes the norm.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: INTERACTING | Teamwork, Communication, Cultural Agility
Speaker: James Fripp, Chief Culture, Opportunity, and Belonging Officer, YUM! Brands, Inc.
Presented by: YUM! Brands, Inc.
Track 5 Supply Chain/Culinary/Purchasing
This practical breakout tackles the critical balancing act of leading modern supply chains: integrating genuine empathy with robust accountability. Explore how fostering understanding and strong relationships with suppliers, partners, and internal teams—while simultaneously upholding clear standards and driving performance builds resilience, improves crisis response, and boosts cross-functional collaboration. Join us for an honest discussion on navigating this essential leadership challenge.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: LEADING | Leadership, Ethics, Communication
Speaker: Jeff Burrus, Vice President of Supply Chain, El Pollo Loco, Inc.
Track 6 Tech/InnovationLocation: Trinity 2
From labor shortages to food waste to safety, AI is driving operational efficiency like never before. Learn how leading brands are solving complex problems and implementing AI in ways that drive tangible outcomes. See how AI is being used today to tackle practical challenges, with real-world case studies and ideas you can take back to your business.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Innovation, Problem Solving, Flexibility
Speaker: Maria Zhang, CEO & Co-Founder, Palona AI
Presented by: Palona AI
Presented by: El Pollo Loco, Inc.
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM
Presented by: Mi-Benefits
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
3:00 PM - 3:45 PM
John Barone Explores What’s Ahead: Key Macro-Economic, Geopolitical, and Commodity Trends Join industry expert John Barone as he unpacks the critical macro-economic forces, geopolitical dynamics, and big-commodity shifts shaping the road ahead. Gain a strategic vantage point on what to watch, when to act, and how to stay prepared for the mile markers that matter most.
Presenter: John Barone, President, Market Vision
Presented by: Cut + Dry
3:45 PM - 4:20 PM
What leadership qualities truly matter at the highest levels? In this dynamic session, discover the six most critical traits that drive high-impact leadership. Through real-world examples and practical insights, you will explore why these qualities are essential for guiding teams, navigating challenges, and sustaining long-term success. Walk away with actionable strategies to elevate your own leadership approach and strengthen your executive toolkit.
Moderator:
James Fripp, Chief Culture, Opportunity, and Belonging Officer, YUM! Brands, Inc.
Panelists:
Susan Adzick, President, McLane Foodservice, Inc.
Greg Creed, Global Marketer, Author, and Retired CEO
Presented by: McLane Foodservice, Inc.
4:20 PM - 5:05 PM
In this exhilarating 45-minute session, Andrew Davis (and his Digital Doppelgänger) will show you how to build your very own AI-powered strategic collaborators. He’ll show you the four-step iterative process one savvy marketer uses to augment their unique writing style, saving 39 valuable working hours. You’ll even witness AI’s power to destroy trust and learn the only way to avoid it. Most importantly, Andrew will demonstrate why AI can make YOU more valuable than ever in an era where visionary leadership must bridge geopolitics, sustainability, and technological transformation. So, are you ready to create your first Digital Doppelgänger and help shape the future of global food systems?
Assessment Capabilities: Imagination, Resilience, Ethics, Change Leadership
Presenter: Andrew Davis, Keynote Speaker & Author, Monumental Shift
Presented by: DataDelivers, LLC
5:05 PM - 5:50 PM
In a world that celebrates perfection and constant achievement, true leadership requires the courage to show up fully, even when life, career, or circumstances leave us feeling broken. In this raw and inspiring conversation, moderator Dan Simons will sit down with Kim Twiggs, who will share her personal journey and lessons learned on embracing vulnerability, resilience, and authenticity. Together, they’ll explore how reframing failure, finding strength in our scars, and leading with honesty and wholeness can unlock deeper connection, greater impact, and more sustainable success. Because sometimes, it’s the moments when we feel most broken that prepare us to lead with the greatest power.
Moderator:
David Jobe, Co-Founder & CEO, Prosper Company
Speaker:
Speaker: Kimberly Twiggs, Vice President of Market Development at DIRECTV, Hospitality & Institutions and Transportation, DIRECTV FOR BUSINESS®
Presented By: DIRECTV FOR BUSINESS®
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Presented by: Point B & Venatrust
6:45 AM - 12:30 PM
6:45 AM - 8:00 AM
Presented by: C.H. Guenther & Son
8:00 AM - 8:20 AM
8:00 AM - 8:20 AM
As we begin today’s General Session, we’ll take time to reflect on the insights, breakthroughs, and connections that have defined the first two days of the Accelerate Conference and yesterday’s Think Tank Breakouts. This is a moment to come together as a community—sharing what inspired you, what challenged you, and what you’ll take back to strengthen your teams and organizations. Together, we’ll turn key takeaways into lasting transformation.
James Fripp, Chief Culture, Opportunity, and Belonging Officer, YUM! Brands, Inc.
Hattie Hill, CEO, Hattie Hill Enterprises and Prosper Company Board Member
David Jobe, Co-Founder & CEO, Prosper Forum
Luke Kircher, Co-Founder & President, Prosper Company
8:30 AM - 9:15 AM
Track 1 Personal DevelopmentLocation: Dallas G
Being great is not fair, and it is not easy. This session explores the hard truths of leadership and the sacrifices required to excel at the highest levels of your organization. Walk away with a clear understanding of the mindset shifts and personal commitments needed to lead with impact and sustain long term success.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: LEADING | Leadership, Resilience, Motivation
Speaker: James Pogue, Ph.D, President/CEO, JP Enterprises
Presented by: JP Enterprises
Track 2 MarketingLocation: Trinity 1
Now you’ve seen how powerful your own Digital Doppelgänger can be, it’s time to build one uniquely yours. Yes, bring your laptop, open your ChatGPT account, and watch LIVE as Andrew builds a sophisticated, strategic, and powerful Digital Doppelgänger alongside you in less than 35 minutes. Have mission-critical tasks that demand your strategic attention? Let’s transform them through AI! Experience firsthand how to evolve generative AI into your most trusted advisor – one capable of amplifying your unique leadership style, strategic thinking, and decision-making capabilities. Are you ready to elevate your executive impact? Drewdini is.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Innovation, Problem Solving, Enablement
Speaker: Andrew Davis, Keynote Speaker & Author, Monumental Shift
Assessment Characteristics: Problem Solving, Growth Mindset, Teamwork, Enablement
Presented by: DataDelivers, LLC
Track 3 MarketingLocation: Trinity 3
Supplier relationships aren’t just about procurement. Learn how to collaborate with suppliers to unlock co-marketing opportunities, drive innovation, and elevate your brand. Discover proven tactics for building supplier partnerships that support innovation, enhance marketing campaigns, and create business value.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: INTERACTING | Customer Orientation, Communication, Teamwork
Speaker: Derek Gaskins, Head of Guest Experience, bp
Presented by: BP
Track 4 Operations/HRLocation: Dallas E
In this Think Tank, the conversation will pull back the curtain on the realities of scaling. What does it really take to grow without burning out your team? How do you protect the culture that got you here while still creating systems that can handle what’s next? And why is betting on your people the smartest strategy you can make?
This will not be a lecture—it’s a working session. You’ll trade ideas, challenge assumptions, and leave with practical takeaways you can put to work right away, no matter the size of your organization. If you’re ready to think bigger about growth, this is your chance to gain insights from someone who has built it from the ground up.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: LEADING | Leadership, Enablement, Change Leadership
Speaker: Jim Bitticks, President & COO, Dave’s Hot Chicken
Presented by: Dave’s Hot Chicken
Track 5 Supply Chain/Culinary/PurchasingLocation: Trinity 2
What is coming next in the foodservice supply chain? Explore emerging trends, evolving customer demands, and new technologies that will transform how brands source, distribute, and serve. Gain a clear view of the supply chain strategies and innovations that will shape the future of foodservice.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Judgement & Decision Making, Innovation, Vision
Speaker: Nelson Griffin, Chief Supply Chain Officer, Wawa
Presented by: Wawa
Track 6 Tech/InnovationLocation: Trinity 2
How can brands embrace technology without losing the human essence that defines hospitality? This session will explore strategies for maintaining warmth, connection, and authentic service while adopting digital tools. Walk away with practical approaches to integrating technology that enhances the guest experience while preserving brand personality and human connection.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: INTERACTING | Cultural Agility, Communication, Ethics
Speaker: Kirk Grogan, COO, TipHaus Inc.
Presented by: TipHaus Inc.
9:30 AM - 10:15 AM
Track 1 Personal DevelopmentLocation: Dallas G
Most leaders don’t fail because they can’t solve problems — they fail because they’re solving the wrong ones. In this fast-paced, practical session, Service Physics gives restaurant and foodservice executives a powerful lens to quickly diagnose challenges across five domains: Clear, Complicated, Complex, Chaotic, and Disordered — inspired by the Cynefin model.
You’ll learn how to:
– Identify what kind of problem you’re actually facing
– Avoid spending time on low-leverage solutions
– Match the right leadership approach to each type of challenge
– Use waste as an entry point to uncover deeper issues
– Focus your energy where it drives real impact
Through real-world examples and hands-on tools, you’ll leave with a repeatable method for cutting through noise, aligning your team, and showing up as the leader the moment demands.
This is your cheat code for solving smarter — not just faster.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Problem Solving, Flexibility, Leadership
Speaker: Steve Crowley, Co-Founder & Principal Consultant, Service Physics
Presented by: Service Physics
Track 2 Marketing
Supplier relationships aren’t just about procurement. Learn how to collaborate with suppliers to unlock co-marketing opportunities, drive innovation, and elevate your brand. Discover proven tactics for building supplier partnerships that support innovation, enhance marketing campaigns, and create business value.
Speaker: Derek Gaskins, Head of Guest Experience, bp
Presented by: BP
Track 3 Finance
The marketing landscape is evolving at a rapid pace. In this session, uncover the emerging trends, from AI driven personalization to new loyalty strategies, that will shape how brands connect with consumers in the years ahead. Learn how to adapt, innovate, and position your brand for lasting impact.
Track 4 Operations/HRLocation: Dallas E
This session dives into how operational leaders and frontline managers can work in lockstep to drive performance. Discover practical frameworks for aligning leadership across all levels, empowering teams with clarity, and improving communication to ensure consistent execution. When leaders are unified, the results speak for themselves.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: LEADING | Leadership, Communication, Enablement
Speaker: Samuel Stanovich, Senior Vice President, Franchise Leadership, Big Chicken
Presented by: Big Chicken
Track 5 Supply Chain/Culinary/Purchasing
Build supplier relationships that go beyond transactions. This session will cover key do’s and don’ts when engaging with vendors and how to create partnerships that drive mutual success.
Discover actionable tips to foster trust, collaboration, and innovation in your supplier partnerships.
Track 6 Tech/InnovationLocation: Trinity 2
In the age of AI and data, successful leaders and teams aren’t the ones with the most information, they’re the ones asking the best questions. In this interactive session, discover how to cut through complexity with Decision Science. You’ll learn classic decision-making frameworks as well as Seaker’s 5-Steps to Smart Decision-Making. Discover why harnessing human insight to drive AI inputs, framing the right questions, aligning decisions with values, stress-testing risks and providing clear communication gives you the ultimate advantage. Leave with a repeatable playbook that helps your team align, move faster, with greater confidence to make smart, strategic decisions.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Judgement & Decision Making, Problem Solving, Imagination
Speaker: Ashley Robinson, CEO & Head of Strategy, The Seaker Group
Presented by: The Seaker Group
10:30 AM - 11:15 AM
Track 1 Personal Development
Shortcuts do not build great leaders or great relationships. This session will challenge emerging leaders to do the work consistently and deliberately over the long term, knowing that trust and reputation are earned through action, not intention. Learn why sustained hard work, authentic relationship building, and intentional personal brand development are critical to leadership success. Walk away with strategies to stay focused, engaged, and resilient through every phase of your growth journey.
Track 2 MarketingLocation: Trinity 1
Over the past few years, the definition of value in the restaurant industry has shifted dramatically. No longer viewed solely through the lens of low prices, value now encompasses quality, experience, convenience, and consumer trust. Kelley Fechner will explore which brands are emerging as leaders and winning with consumers. In addition, Kelley will lead an interactive session sharing best practices for working with data partners to gain quick and efficient actionable insights. Attendees will walk away with a deeper understanding of how value is influencing today’s competitive landscape and how to leverage data partnerships for smarter, faster decision-making.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: THINKING | Innovation, Customer Orientation, Problem Solving
Speaker: Kelley Fechner, VP Customer Experience, Datassential
Presented by: Datassential
Track 3 FinanceLocation: Trinity 3
Today’s most resilient companies understand that driving financial performance and advancing purpose are not opposing goals. They are powerful partners. In this dynamic session, leading CFOs and strategists will share how they are embedding purpose into financial frameworks to unlock long term value, attract top talent, and build lasting customer loyalty. Explore practical ways to align capital allocation, resource planning, and performance metrics with mission driven priorities without sacrificing profitability. If you are ready to elevate both purpose and profit in your finance strategy, this session will show you how to lead the way.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: LEADING | Vision, Ethics, Change Leadership
Speaker: Scott Drake, CFO, CEC Entertainment
Presented by: CEC Entertainment
Track 4 Operations/HRLocation: Dallas E
No two brands should feel the same, and neither should the way they operate or engage their people. This session will explore how intentional leadership can shape distinctive and authentic cultures across restaurant brands. Learn how to align hiring, development, daily operations, and guest interactions with the unique DNA of your brand, ensuring that every touchpoint reflects your vision and values. Walk away with practical strategies for building operational systems and leadership habits that preserve and amplify the essence of your brand at every level.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: LEADING | Vision, Leadership, Cultural Agility
Speaker: Scott Taylor, Chief Executive Officer, R&R Brands
Presented by: R&R Brands
Track 5 Supply Chain/Culinary/Purchasing
In this interactive Think Tank, participants will explore the technologies and digital solutions reshaping the future of supply chain management in foodservice—from advanced procurement platforms to real-time data analytics and predictive insights.
The session will open with a deep dive into how forward-thinking brands are leveraging data to drive efficiency, strengthen supplier partnerships, and build supply chains that are smarter, faster, and more resilient.
Participants will then move into small-group discussions to apply these concepts to real-world challenges. You’ll walk away with a clear framework for evaluating your current systems, identifying high-impact areas for innovation, and implementing two to three actionable strategies to elevate your supply chain performance.
Track 6 Tech/InnovationLocation: Trinity 2
There is no finish line in innovation. Learn how top companies create cultures of relentless iteration by deploying, measuring, refining, and scaling new technologies without waiting for perfection. Explore practical techniques to build a culture of continuous improvement, refine solutions over time, and drive consistent innovation across your organization.
Assessment Domain and Capabilities: ACHIEVING | Growth Mindset, Diligence, Flexibility
Speaker: Shokouh Shafiei, President & CEO, DSA Signage
Presented by: DSA Signage
11:30 AM - 12:15 PM
11:30 AM - 12:15 PM
“Top-performing restaurant brands are not succeeding by chance. They are leveraging operational intelligence, labor optimization, marketing and experience design in ways that consistently outperform the market.
In this session, Victor Fernandez of Black Box Intelligence will present a rigorous analysis of five macro-level trends shaping performance across workforce, guest experience, and financial outcomes. Backed by proprietary data direct from restaurant brands, this session will expose the structural and behavioral differences between the top and bottom quartiles of the industry.
The discussion will explore how seemingly incremental improvements, such as targeted onboarding adjustments or slight shifts in operational focus—can generate meaningful financial returns. More importantly, it will unpack how high-performing brands build systems that link employee engagement, guest loyalty, and unit economics into a sustainable performance model.
This session is designed for executives seeking to pressure test their current assumptions, benchmark against best-in-class operators, and identify performance levers that are often overlooked but critical to long-term growth.”
Speaker: Victor Fernandez, Chief Insights Officer, Black Box Intelligence
Presented By: Black Box Intelligence
12:15 PM - 1:00 PM
