Speakers
Cristian Avalos
Director of Partnerships, Hyer
Cristian Avalos is an experienced industry professional specializing in account management and strategic partnerships within the gig economy. In his current role as the Director of Partnerships at Hyer, he plays a pivotal role in driving company’s transformative growth by forging valuable alliances with new partners across the hospitality and food service industries. Prior to Hyer, Cristian worked at DoorDash, where he gained valuable insights into ongoing staffing challenges across these industries. His mission at Hyer is to address and resolve these labor challenges by enabling partners to tap into a growing pool of independent contractors who are vetted, motivated, and ready to work.
Director of Partnerships, Hyer
Cristian Avalos is an experienced industry professional specializing in account management and strategic partnerships within the gig economy. In his current role as the Director of Partnerships at Hyer, he plays a pivotal role in driving company’s transformative growth by forging valuable alliances with new partners across the hospitality and food service industries. Prior to Hyer, Cristian worked at DoorDash, where he gained valuable insights into ongoing staffing challenges across these industries. His mission at Hyer is to address and resolve these labor challenges by enabling partners to tap into a growing pool of independent contractors who are vetted, motivated, and ready to work.
Sarah Bauer
Heartland
Sarah Bauer is a Payment Technology Expert with Heartland. In her role as a Territory Manager, she partners with local businesses on payment solutions while also leading a team of 5 in the greater Milwaukee area. She has served the restaurant community for over 6 years, partnering with them on payment technology and point of sale solutions. She also serves as a Director on the State Board for the Wisconsin Restaurant Association (WRA).
Heartland
Sarah Bauer is a Payment Technology Expert with Heartland. In her role as a Territory Manager, she partners with local businesses on payment solutions while also leading a team of 5 in the greater Milwaukee area. She has served the restaurant community for over 6 years, partnering with them on payment technology and point of sale solutions. She also serves as a Director on the State Board for the Wisconsin Restaurant Association (WRA).
Ellissa Black
Account Executive, OpenTable
Originally from Ann Arbor, MI, Ellissa is an expert in table management and reservation management technology. She joined OpenTable in 2017 and helped restaurants transition gracefully from the legacy platform (ERB - Electronic Reservation Book) to OpenTable's cloud-based solution used today. Additionally, she worked on the new pricing initiative, allowing partnering restaurants more control over how marketing dollars are spent.
Currently, she works with restaurants in Wisconsin, Western Michigan, and West Virginia on table management, marketing, and reservation management solutions. Ellissa has a BA in Communications and English Literature from the University of Michigan. A lover of cheese, all things Midwestern, and Big Ten sports, when she's not working with restaurants, she's testing her own baking recipes, coaching gymnastics, or golfing.
Account Executive, OpenTable
Originally from Ann Arbor, MI, Ellissa is an expert in table management and reservation management technology. She joined OpenTable in 2017 and helped restaurants transition gracefully from the legacy platform (ERB - Electronic Reservation Book) to OpenTable's cloud-based solution used today. Additionally, she worked on the new pricing initiative, allowing partnering restaurants more control over how marketing dollars are spent.
Currently, she works with restaurants in Wisconsin, Western Michigan, and West Virginia on table management, marketing, and reservation management solutions. Ellissa has a BA in Communications and English Literature from the University of Michigan. A lover of cheese, all things Midwestern, and Big Ten sports, when she's not working with restaurants, she's testing her own baking recipes, coaching gymnastics, or golfing.
Steve Bench
Founder, Generational Consulting
Steve Bench is a nationally recognized keynote speaker who delivers presentations and training sessions that offer engagement strategies for attracting and retaining Millennial and Gen Z employees, empowering Gen X management, capturing Boomer wisdom and cultivating future leadership by leveraging the strengths of each generation.
Steve founded Generational Consulting in 2017 to help companies and organizations better understand generational differences and has since shared his message with audiences across the country, earning the nickname “The Millennial Guy." Steve has developed a reputation for delivering high energy, engaging presentations that provide actionable strategies and meaningful results.
Steve is also the Creator of "The Pitch!" a visionary 501c3 educational non-profit that is best described as a Shark Tank-style business contest for teens. By nurturing young minds and cultivating their entrepreneurial spirit, "The Pitch!" empowers the leaders of tomorrow to thrive in an ever-evolving business landscape.
Founder, Generational Consulting
Steve Bench is a nationally recognized keynote speaker who delivers presentations and training sessions that offer engagement strategies for attracting and retaining Millennial and Gen Z employees, empowering Gen X management, capturing Boomer wisdom and cultivating future leadership by leveraging the strengths of each generation.
Steve founded Generational Consulting in 2017 to help companies and organizations better understand generational differences and has since shared his message with audiences across the country, earning the nickname “The Millennial Guy." Steve has developed a reputation for delivering high energy, engaging presentations that provide actionable strategies and meaningful results.
Steve is also the Creator of "The Pitch!" a visionary 501c3 educational non-profit that is best described as a Shark Tank-style business contest for teens. By nurturing young minds and cultivating their entrepreneurial spirit, "The Pitch!" empowers the leaders of tomorrow to thrive in an ever-evolving business landscape.
Jeff Brandwein
Director of Sales, Paradox
Jeff is a sales leader with 14 years of HR and recruiting sales experience.
Today, Jeff is responsible for leading the global business development team at Paradox, a conversational recruiting and hiring platform that is transforming the way companies engage and attract candidates, and create an experience that becomes a competitive advantage.
Beyond his current role, Jeff has had the fortunate experience of working for some of the best and fastest growing HR tech companies in the world (Careerbuilder, Hireology, Paradox). This has led him to work with clients ranging from small to large enterprises helping them build their advertising strategies, consult on Human Capital Management processes and now help pioneer the revolution of conversational AI for candidate and employee experience management.
Director of Sales, Paradox
Jeff is a sales leader with 14 years of HR and recruiting sales experience.
Today, Jeff is responsible for leading the global business development team at Paradox, a conversational recruiting and hiring platform that is transforming the way companies engage and attract candidates, and create an experience that becomes a competitive advantage.
Beyond his current role, Jeff has had the fortunate experience of working for some of the best and fastest growing HR tech companies in the world (Careerbuilder, Hireology, Paradox). This has led him to work with clients ranging from small to large enterprises helping them build their advertising strategies, consult on Human Capital Management processes and now help pioneer the revolution of conversational AI for candidate and employee experience management.
Jaimi Brown
Strategy Director/Partner, Hiebing
Jaimi channels empathy to find meaningful connection with every target and brand she works with. Through longstanding partnerships and more-than-a-pinch of sarcasm, Jaimi has armed brands like Culver’s, Fiskars, JanSport, Famous Footwear and more with strategic vision, ideas and heartfelt stewardship that help them reach their audiences and achieve business goals.
A social catalyst, Jaimi builds her client connections with trust and respect. She inspires action by creating a project vision for a brand that is dressed to impress. And her oversight of marketing activations have run the gamut—she’s led teams through brand repositioning, product launches, TV and video production, full-scale e-commerce website design and development, franchise and dealer programs, and much more. Jaimi gets to know the ins and outs of everything she’s involved with and is skillful at communicating pretty much anything to anyone. A proud working mom, when Jaimi isn’t in the office or at home chasing her family from one sport to another, you can find her soaking up the sunshine on Madeline Island.
Strategy Director/Partner, Hiebing
Jaimi channels empathy to find meaningful connection with every target and brand she works with. Through longstanding partnerships and more-than-a-pinch of sarcasm, Jaimi has armed brands like Culver’s, Fiskars, JanSport, Famous Footwear and more with strategic vision, ideas and heartfelt stewardship that help them reach their audiences and achieve business goals.
A social catalyst, Jaimi builds her client connections with trust and respect. She inspires action by creating a project vision for a brand that is dressed to impress. And her oversight of marketing activations have run the gamut—she’s led teams through brand repositioning, product launches, TV and video production, full-scale e-commerce website design and development, franchise and dealer programs, and much more. Jaimi gets to know the ins and outs of everything she’s involved with and is skillful at communicating pretty much anything to anyone. A proud working mom, when Jaimi isn’t in the office or at home chasing her family from one sport to another, you can find her soaking up the sunshine on Madeline Island.
David Dittenber
Founder & CEO, Bring Your Own Data (BYOD)
David Dittenber is the President and CEO of Downtown Restaurant Investments in Midland, MI. For almost thirty years, Dave has owned restaurants in the Great Lakes Bay Region of Michigan. Dave is the co-founder and CEO of BYOD, a virtual restaurant management platform that combines restaurant operations with emerging technologies.
Dave graduated from Aquinas College with a Bachelor of Science degree with majors in Biology and Chemistry. Dave earned his Master of Management from Aquinas College and a Master of Business Administration from Phoenix University. He is a past Chairperson of the Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association and member of the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation Board of Trustees and the Chair of their Governance Committee.
He resides in Midland, MI with his wife Amy, and children Drew (13) and Kelsey (11).
Founder & CEO, Bring Your Own Data (BYOD)
David Dittenber is the President and CEO of Downtown Restaurant Investments in Midland, MI. For almost thirty years, Dave has owned restaurants in the Great Lakes Bay Region of Michigan. Dave is the co-founder and CEO of BYOD, a virtual restaurant management platform that combines restaurant operations with emerging technologies.
Dave graduated from Aquinas College with a Bachelor of Science degree with majors in Biology and Chemistry. Dave earned his Master of Management from Aquinas College and a Master of Business Administration from Phoenix University. He is a past Chairperson of the Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association and member of the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation Board of Trustees and the Chair of their Governance Committee.
He resides in Midland, MI with his wife Amy, and children Drew (13) and Kelsey (11).
Devin Eichler
Founder & CEO, Crafty Cow
Devin is the founder and one of the co-owners and operators of Crafty Cow. He is the brains behind the food and beverage operation. Born in Wisconsin, and living in Mukwonago, Devin was raised on burgers. Being one of his dad's favorite foods growing up, the appreciation for the food you could say was a family tradition.
During college, Devin lived in Minneapolis, where he discovered the craft beer world and immediately fell in love. Working at restaurants in Minneapolis he continued learning about beer while working in the kitchen, serving, behind the bar, really, any position in the restaurant. Minneapolis is also where Devin learned of the Jucy Lucy, and the rest is history.
Among other great accomplishments, Devin was also named in the 2023 Milwaukee Business Journal 40 Under 40!
Founder & CEO, Crafty Cow
Devin is the founder and one of the co-owners and operators of Crafty Cow. He is the brains behind the food and beverage operation. Born in Wisconsin, and living in Mukwonago, Devin was raised on burgers. Being one of his dad's favorite foods growing up, the appreciation for the food you could say was a family tradition.
During college, Devin lived in Minneapolis, where he discovered the craft beer world and immediately fell in love. Working at restaurants in Minneapolis he continued learning about beer while working in the kitchen, serving, behind the bar, really, any position in the restaurant. Minneapolis is also where Devin learned of the Jucy Lucy, and the rest is history.
Among other great accomplishments, Devin was also named in the 2023 Milwaukee Business Journal 40 Under 40!
Kristine Hillmer
President & CEO, Wisconsin Restaurant Association
Kristine Hillmer is the President & CEO Wisconsin Restaurant Association and Wisconsin Restaurant Association Education Foundation, representing 1,500 restaurants with more than 7,000 locations across the state. Kristine has an MBA, has held the Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential for 26 years, and has more than 30 years of experience working with associations, including both trade and professional societies. Kristine currently serves as a Trustee on the National Restaurant Association Education Foundation’s Board of Trustees and the Council of State Restaurant Association Board of Directors. And was named a Milwaukee Business Journal Woman of Influence in 2022.
President & CEO, Wisconsin Restaurant Association
Kristine Hillmer is the President & CEO Wisconsin Restaurant Association and Wisconsin Restaurant Association Education Foundation, representing 1,500 restaurants with more than 7,000 locations across the state. Kristine has an MBA, has held the Certified Association Executive (CAE) credential for 26 years, and has more than 30 years of experience working with associations, including both trade and professional societies. Kristine currently serves as a Trustee on the National Restaurant Association Education Foundation’s Board of Trustees and the Council of State Restaurant Association Board of Directors. And was named a Milwaukee Business Journal Woman of Influence in 2022.
Sam Horvath
Senior Account Manager, Datassential
As a Senior Account Manager at Datassential, Sam Horvath leverages a data-driven approach to skillfully navigate the intricacies of the foodservice industry. She excels in providing valuable data-driven insights and crafting strategic solutions through her collaborations with numerous food/beverage manufacturers and restaurant operators.
Datassential is a foodservice focused Market Research firm based in Chicago, IL. Datassential is revolutionizing the way food and beverage companies plan for the future. Our market-leading solutions, from AI-powered innovation tools and predictive analytics to unmatched market intelligence and proprietary data, are trusted by the top food and beverage companies. We empower foodservice leaders to make simply smarter decisions.
Senior Account Manager, Datassential
As a Senior Account Manager at Datassential, Sam Horvath leverages a data-driven approach to skillfully navigate the intricacies of the foodservice industry. She excels in providing valuable data-driven insights and crafting strategic solutions through her collaborations with numerous food/beverage manufacturers and restaurant operators.
Datassential is a foodservice focused Market Research firm based in Chicago, IL. Datassential is revolutionizing the way food and beverage companies plan for the future. Our market-leading solutions, from AI-powered innovation tools and predictive analytics to unmatched market intelligence and proprietary data, are trusted by the top food and beverage companies. We empower foodservice leaders to make simply smarter decisions.
Nancy Kruse
President, The Kruse Company and Contributor, Restaurant Business
The best-known menu analyst in the foodservice industry, Nancy Kruse is a recognized authority and widely quoted spokesperson on food and menu trends.
In 1997, she founded The Kruse Company, which is based in Atlanta and dedicated to assessing trends and directions in food, menu and restaurant concepts. She authors State of the Plate, a column devoted to what’s happening on the menu that appears monthly in Restaurant Business, and she also co-authors Sweet & Sour, a monthly exchange of ideas on strategic issues impacting the foodservice industry.
In demand as a speaker, she has addressed national and state restaurant associations, as well as major restaurant and supermarket organizations, food manufacturers and distributors, and promotion boards across the US and around the world.
Prior to founding her own company, Nancy served as Executive Vice President for Technomic, Inc., where she conducted a wide range of consulting assignments for Fortune 500 food and restaurant companies. She has served on several boards, and she is an active member of the Women’s Foodservice Forum and Las Dames d’Escoffier International.
Nancy earned a Master of Arts degree from the Film School of Northwestern University and was a Woodrow Wilson Fellow in Russian Literature at the University of Wisconsin. She has also completed coursework at The Culinary Institute of America, where she has served as guest lecturer. In addition, Nancy has been named one of Linked In’s Top 100 INfluencers in the US, and she contributes regularly to the business-networking website.
President, The Kruse Company and Contributor, Restaurant Business
The best-known menu analyst in the foodservice industry, Nancy Kruse is a recognized authority and widely quoted spokesperson on food and menu trends.
In 1997, she founded The Kruse Company, which is based in Atlanta and dedicated to assessing trends and directions in food, menu and restaurant concepts. She authors State of the Plate, a column devoted to what’s happening on the menu that appears monthly in Restaurant Business, and she also co-authors Sweet & Sour, a monthly exchange of ideas on strategic issues impacting the foodservice industry.
In demand as a speaker, she has addressed national and state restaurant associations, as well as major restaurant and supermarket organizations, food manufacturers and distributors, and promotion boards across the US and around the world.
Prior to founding her own company, Nancy served as Executive Vice President for Technomic, Inc., where she conducted a wide range of consulting assignments for Fortune 500 food and restaurant companies. She has served on several boards, and she is an active member of the Women’s Foodservice Forum and Las Dames d’Escoffier International.
Nancy earned a Master of Arts degree from the Film School of Northwestern University and was a Woodrow Wilson Fellow in Russian Literature at the University of Wisconsin. She has also completed coursework at The Culinary Institute of America, where she has served as guest lecturer. In addition, Nancy has been named one of Linked In’s Top 100 INfluencers in the US, and she contributes regularly to the business-networking website.
Justin McCoy
Vice President of Marketing, Cousins Subs
Justin McCoy joined Cousins Subs in January 2006 as an entry-level marketing specialist and held several marketing positions before being named Vice President of Marketing in May 2013. In his role, he is responsible for managing advertising agency relationships, developing national promotional calendars and creating system-wide strategic initiatives related to advertising, marketing and public relations. McCoy brings more than 17 years of restaurant industry experience, more than four years of experience in public and media relations with the Milwaukee Bucks and several years of experience in the finance industry to Cousins Subs. McCoy serves as Vice President of the Make It Better Foundation Board and has been a board member since its 2013 inception. He has also served on the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation Board of Directors since 2016 and is on the Executive Team. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in communications from Cardinal Stritch University.
Vice President of Marketing, Cousins Subs
Justin McCoy joined Cousins Subs in January 2006 as an entry-level marketing specialist and held several marketing positions before being named Vice President of Marketing in May 2013. In his role, he is responsible for managing advertising agency relationships, developing national promotional calendars and creating system-wide strategic initiatives related to advertising, marketing and public relations. McCoy brings more than 17 years of restaurant industry experience, more than four years of experience in public and media relations with the Milwaukee Bucks and several years of experience in the finance industry to Cousins Subs. McCoy serves as Vice President of the Make It Better Foundation Board and has been a board member since its 2013 inception. He has also served on the Vince Lombardi Cancer Foundation Board of Directors since 2016 and is on the Executive Team. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in communications from Cardinal Stritch University.
Susan Quam, CAE, IOM
Executive Vice President, Wisconsin Restaurant Association
Susan Quam, Executive Vice President, joined the Wisconsin Restaurant Association in January of 1997. She served as Executive Director of the WRA Education Foundation for her first 15 years. As Executive Director, she worked to promote career opportunities and scholarships within the foodservice industry and provide continuing education programs for restaurateurs. In 2012 she moved to the Executive Vice President position, where she works closely with the WRA’s President and CEO to enact the vision of the WRA board of directors. She is also one of WRA’s two registered lobbyists.
In addition to WRA general advocacy responsibilities, her areas of emphasis include employment law, alcohol law, food safety regulations, food defense, nutrition issues, and state/national relations.
Executive Vice President, Wisconsin Restaurant Association
Susan Quam, Executive Vice President, joined the Wisconsin Restaurant Association in January of 1997. She served as Executive Director of the WRA Education Foundation for her first 15 years. As Executive Director, she worked to promote career opportunities and scholarships within the foodservice industry and provide continuing education programs for restaurateurs. In 2012 she moved to the Executive Vice President position, where she works closely with the WRA’s President and CEO to enact the vision of the WRA board of directors. She is also one of WRA’s two registered lobbyists.
In addition to WRA general advocacy responsibilities, her areas of emphasis include employment law, alcohol law, food safety regulations, food defense, nutrition issues, and state/national relations.
Joe Reinstein
Executive Director, Digital Restaurant Association
Joe Reinstein is the Executive Director of the non-profit Digital Restaurant Association (DRA), an independent coalition of restaurants advocating for a fair and sustainable restaurant technology ecosystem. Joe helps restaurants move from digital disruption to digital transformation. He ensures the DRA provides public policy advocacy, educational resources and technology solutions for DRA restaurant members. Joe is dedicated to helping restaurant owners increase online revenue, improve restaurant performance and streamline operations.
Prior to joining the DRA, Joe was Global Growth Officer at Publicis Groupe’s Performics, one of the largest digital media agencies in the world managing over $5 billion in digital media globally. Joe was also the Deputy Social Secretary at the White House in the Obama Administration, where he managed all arts and cultural events at the White House. Joe spent his early career in advertising, working with brands like Taco Bell, PepsiCo, Aquafina, Quaker, Cap’n Crunch and Life cereals, Pepe’s Mexican Restaurants, as well as Wrigley gum and mint brands.
Executive Director, Digital Restaurant Association
Joe Reinstein is the Executive Director of the non-profit Digital Restaurant Association (DRA), an independent coalition of restaurants advocating for a fair and sustainable restaurant technology ecosystem. Joe helps restaurants move from digital disruption to digital transformation. He ensures the DRA provides public policy advocacy, educational resources and technology solutions for DRA restaurant members. Joe is dedicated to helping restaurant owners increase online revenue, improve restaurant performance and streamline operations.
Prior to joining the DRA, Joe was Global Growth Officer at Publicis Groupe’s Performics, one of the largest digital media agencies in the world managing over $5 billion in digital media globally. Joe was also the Deputy Social Secretary at the White House in the Obama Administration, where he managed all arts and cultural events at the White House. Joe spent his early career in advertising, working with brands like Taco Bell, PepsiCo, Aquafina, Quaker, Cap’n Crunch and Life cereals, Pepe’s Mexican Restaurants, as well as Wrigley gum and mint brands.
Jon Schwartz
Senior District Manager, OpenTable
Jon Schwartz grew up working in restaurants from pizza places to gastropubs. He is now the Senior District Manager for the Midwest region at OpenTable, overseeing operations across eight states. With more than seven years of experience at OpenTable, Jon’s leadership skills have been instrumental in both the launch and expansion of emerging markets in the US, spanning Northern Michigan, West Virginia and upstate New York. For two years, Jon applied that same vision to establish a new marketplace abroad for both restaurants and diners in Canada and Mexico.
Jon has led OpenTable's Midwest business, where he is committed to equipping restaurants with the tools they need to provide exceptional hospitality, even in the face of the unprecedented challenges the industry has confronted over the last several years.
Senior District Manager, OpenTable
Jon Schwartz grew up working in restaurants from pizza places to gastropubs. He is now the Senior District Manager for the Midwest region at OpenTable, overseeing operations across eight states. With more than seven years of experience at OpenTable, Jon’s leadership skills have been instrumental in both the launch and expansion of emerging markets in the US, spanning Northern Michigan, West Virginia and upstate New York. For two years, Jon applied that same vision to establish a new marketplace abroad for both restaurants and diners in Canada and Mexico.
Jon has led OpenTable's Midwest business, where he is committed to equipping restaurants with the tools they need to provide exceptional hospitality, even in the face of the unprecedented challenges the industry has confronted over the last several years.
Erin Stoesz
North and South Seafood & Smokehouse
North & South Seafood and Smokehouse is a twist of a surf’n turf, with the mission of bringing great seafood and wood-fired barbecue to 3 locations in the Madison area. The locally owned family company founded by Keith (the North) & Erin (the South) has been in the community for 15+ years. Erin is always on the lookout for new ways through technology to help the people on her team free up their time to focus on service and food quality. She has had great success implementing innovative platforms into her staffing model.
North and South Seafood & Smokehouse
North & South Seafood and Smokehouse is a twist of a surf’n turf, with the mission of bringing great seafood and wood-fired barbecue to 3 locations in the Madison area. The locally owned family company founded by Keith (the North) & Erin (the South) has been in the community for 15+ years. Erin is always on the lookout for new ways through technology to help the people on her team free up their time to focus on service and food quality. She has had great success implementing innovative platforms into her staffing model.
Patrick Tully
Account Manager - Indiana and Wisconsin, OpenTable
Joining OpenTable in 2018, Patrick started as a Digital Marketing Consultant, helping restaurant owners discover the secret to increasing their online visibility, attracting new patrons, and fostering customer loyalty. Patrick transitioned to an Account Manager specializing in top and elite restaurant partnerships across Indiana and Wisconsin. With a passion for the hospitality industry, Patrick has established himself as a trusted advisor and partner for some of the most prestigious dining establishments in the region.
Born and raised in Denver, CO, he holds a B.S. in Natural Resource Recreation and Tourism and a minor in Business Administration from Colorado State University, Fort Collins. Outside of work, you can find him fly-fishing, skiing, and camping with his wife and yellow labrador retriever.
Account Manager - Indiana and Wisconsin, OpenTable
Joining OpenTable in 2018, Patrick started as a Digital Marketing Consultant, helping restaurant owners discover the secret to increasing their online visibility, attracting new patrons, and fostering customer loyalty. Patrick transitioned to an Account Manager specializing in top and elite restaurant partnerships across Indiana and Wisconsin. With a passion for the hospitality industry, Patrick has established himself as a trusted advisor and partner for some of the most prestigious dining establishments in the region.
Born and raised in Denver, CO, he holds a B.S. in Natural Resource Recreation and Tourism and a minor in Business Administration from Colorado State University, Fort Collins. Outside of work, you can find him fly-fishing, skiing, and camping with his wife and yellow labrador retriever.
Sawyer Utah
Emerging 22-year-old writer, producer and pop artist Sawyer Utah began his musical journey writing songs in his bedroom at the age of 6. He was raised in the college town of La Crosse, Wisconsin, where he performed his first open mic at the age of 8. As he continued into middle school and high school, he began mastering the art of engineering and production while honing in on his songwriting skills. After a conversation among family friends that connected him to music business veteran, Norbert Nix, Utah signed with Nix’s artist development and entertainment enterprise, VISCYRL. Utah’s songs quickly caught the attention of multi-platinum producer and songwriter Frank Rogers, CCO of Spirit Music Group, as well as Grammy-nominated songwriter and producer Gregg Wattenberg of Arcade Songs in New York. Together, VISCYRL, Spirit, and Arcade formed a JV publishing entity to launch Utah’s creative vision on a global scale. Utah was fast-tracked into the songwriting circuits in Los Angeles, New York, and Nashville. His most recent writing/production cut was “Neon Skies” by Zach Hood, released on Arista. He’s also been collaborating with Camylio, Prateek Kuhad, Benzi Edelson, Jesse Fink, David Arkwright, Sophie Simmons, and many others. The debut single from his artist project, “Nights Like This”, was released on June 8th.
Emerging 22-year-old writer, producer and pop artist Sawyer Utah began his musical journey writing songs in his bedroom at the age of 6. He was raised in the college town of La Crosse, Wisconsin, where he performed his first open mic at the age of 8. As he continued into middle school and high school, he began mastering the art of engineering and production while honing in on his songwriting skills. After a conversation among family friends that connected him to music business veteran, Norbert Nix, Utah signed with Nix’s artist development and entertainment enterprise, VISCYRL. Utah’s songs quickly caught the attention of multi-platinum producer and songwriter Frank Rogers, CCO of Spirit Music Group, as well as Grammy-nominated songwriter and producer Gregg Wattenberg of Arcade Songs in New York. Together, VISCYRL, Spirit, and Arcade formed a JV publishing entity to launch Utah’s creative vision on a global scale. Utah was fast-tracked into the songwriting circuits in Los Angeles, New York, and Nashville. His most recent writing/production cut was “Neon Skies” by Zach Hood, released on Arista. He’s also been collaborating with Camylio, Prateek Kuhad, Benzi Edelson, Jesse Fink, David Arkwright, Sophie Simmons, and many others. The debut single from his artist project, “Nights Like This”, was released on June 8th.
See Some of Last Year's Speakers
Dylan Altman
Originally from the great state of New Jersey, Dylan has been writing songs and performing in Nashville for more than 20 years. He has had three #1 songs: Tim McGraw’s “Watch the Wind Blow By,” Jake Owen’s “Barefoot Blue Jean Night” and Jason Aldean’s “Take A Little Ride.” Other artists who have recorded Dylan’s songs include Trace Adkins, Joe Nichols, Eli Young Band, Chase Bryant, Will Hoge and Trace Adkins. He is an avid supporter and volunteer for Musicians on Call, an organization that provides live music for patients in area hospitals, and he co-hosts an annual benefit for JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) with good friend and frequent collaborator Nashville recording artist Eric Paslay. His proudest accomplishment is his beautiful daughter Isabella, who serves as his greatest inspiration.
Originally from the great state of New Jersey, Dylan has been writing songs and performing in Nashville for more than 20 years. He has had three #1 songs: Tim McGraw’s “Watch the Wind Blow By,” Jake Owen’s “Barefoot Blue Jean Night” and Jason Aldean’s “Take A Little Ride.” Other artists who have recorded Dylan’s songs include Trace Adkins, Joe Nichols, Eli Young Band, Chase Bryant, Will Hoge and Trace Adkins. He is an avid supporter and volunteer for Musicians on Call, an organization that provides live music for patients in area hospitals, and he co-hosts an annual benefit for JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) with good friend and frequent collaborator Nashville recording artist Eric Paslay. His proudest accomplishment is his beautiful daughter Isabella, who serves as his greatest inspiration.
Carlo Cesario
Field Training Manager, Buffalo Wild Wings
I have worked for Buffalo Wild Wings for the past 14 years. Throughout that time, I worked various positions including General Manager, District Manager, and Field Training Manager. My experience includes company and franchise ops. Most recently, I have been involved with a core team working to incorporate technology into our service model that includes allowing our guests to order and pay on their device.
Field Training Manager, Buffalo Wild Wings
I have worked for Buffalo Wild Wings for the past 14 years. Throughout that time, I worked various positions including General Manager, District Manager, and Field Training Manager. My experience includes company and franchise ops. Most recently, I have been involved with a core team working to incorporate technology into our service model that includes allowing our guests to order and pay on their device.
Craig Culver
Co-Founder, Board Chairman, Brand Ambassador of Culver Franchising System, LLC
Craig Culver retired as CEO in 2015 but is still involved in the business as board chairman and continues to be the face and champion of the brand. With now over 800 Culver’s franchises across 25 states and over 30,000 team members, Craig has become a leader in the food industry.
Co-Founder, Board Chairman, Brand Ambassador of Culver Franchising System, LLC
Craig Culver retired as CEO in 2015 but is still involved in the business as board chairman and continues to be the face and champion of the brand. With now over 800 Culver’s franchises across 25 states and over 30,000 team members, Craig has become a leader in the food industry.
Kelly Dykhuizen
Senior Director | Customer Experience | Datassential
Kelly joined Datassential in 2017, where she specializes in analyzing food trends and providing actionable insights to clients. Her background includes over 10 years of experience in both custom and syndicated research, primarily for CPG, foodservice, and retail clients. Kelly has a BS in Marketing and Entrepreneurship from Indiana University.
Senior Director | Customer Experience | Datassential
Kelly joined Datassential in 2017, where she specializes in analyzing food trends and providing actionable insights to clients. Her background includes over 10 years of experience in both custom and syndicated research, primarily for CPG, foodservice, and retail clients. Kelly has a BS in Marketing and Entrepreneurship from Indiana University.
J.J. Grube
Vice President of Operations and Finance, Cousins Submarines, Inc.
J.J. Grube began his career at Cousins Subs in January 2017 as the Director of Finance. However, he’s no novice to the restaurant industry. He came to the organization with more than 15 years of restaurant experience, serving in finance- and analytics-driven roles including with the largest restaurant franchisee in the state of Wisconsin. In January 2019, Grube was named Vice President of Finance and joined the Leadership Team at Cousins Subs and in July 2020 was named Vice President of Operations & Finance. In this role, he oversees the corporate operations and finance teams. Grube holds a Bachelor of Arts in accounting from the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point.
Vice President of Operations and Finance, Cousins Submarines, Inc.
J.J. Grube began his career at Cousins Subs in January 2017 as the Director of Finance. However, he’s no novice to the restaurant industry. He came to the organization with more than 15 years of restaurant experience, serving in finance- and analytics-driven roles including with the largest restaurant franchisee in the state of Wisconsin. In January 2019, Grube was named Vice President of Finance and joined the Leadership Team at Cousins Subs and in July 2020 was named Vice President of Operations & Finance. In this role, he oversees the corporate operations and finance teams. Grube holds a Bachelor of Arts in accounting from the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point.
Liz Haferkorn
Senior Marketing Manager – Digital and Social Guest Communication and Engagement, Culver Franchising System, LLC
Liz Haferkorn joined Culver’s in 2015 and oversees digital and social guest communication and engagement, including the inception and growth of the ButterBurger brand’s TikTok channel. Her passion for social started during her time at an agency in her role prior to Culver’s, working on client social strategies for Procter and Gamble brands.
Senior Marketing Manager – Digital and Social Guest Communication and Engagement, Culver Franchising System, LLC
Liz Haferkorn joined Culver’s in 2015 and oversees digital and social guest communication and engagement, including the inception and growth of the ButterBurger brand’s TikTok channel. Her passion for social started during her time at an agency in her role prior to Culver’s, working on client social strategies for Procter and Gamble brands.
Damian Hanft
Vice President, Brand & Culture Ambassador, Inspire Brands
As a teacher and a learner in it for the purpose, Damian believes that successful teams are developed through authenticity, radical candor and a lot of laughter. Damian currently serves on the board of CHART (the hospitality association for trainers) and as an advisory board member for the Multicultural Foodservice and Hospitality Alliance (MFHA). He holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin.
Vice President, Brand & Culture Ambassador, Inspire Brands
As a teacher and a learner in it for the purpose, Damian believes that successful teams are developed through authenticity, radical candor and a lot of laughter. Damian currently serves on the board of CHART (the hospitality association for trainers) and as an advisory board member for the Multicultural Foodservice and Hospitality Alliance (MFHA). He holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin.
John Isbell SHRM-SCP,CHT
V.P. of Learning & Development, Portillo's Hot Dogs Inc.
John develops leaders. He is known for his keynote presentations or interactive workshops that create intentional leaders who hire, train, develop and retain talented individuals. John provides leadership development instruction by using case studies for real life situational storytelling and audience engagement. He also develops custom training programs to help teams understand their business and processes to drive excellence in employee performance. John has been part of the Portillo’s leadership team since 2018.
V.P. of Learning & Development, Portillo's Hot Dogs Inc.
John develops leaders. He is known for his keynote presentations or interactive workshops that create intentional leaders who hire, train, develop and retain talented individuals. John provides leadership development instruction by using case studies for real life situational storytelling and audience engagement. He also develops custom training programs to help teams understand their business and processes to drive excellence in employee performance. John has been part of the Portillo’s leadership team since 2018.
Leslie Niemeyer
Business Resource Consultant, Sysco
Over the last twenty years, Leslie Niemeyer's passion for the restaurant industry has continued to grow as she adapts to an ever-changing industry. The opportunity to share her knowledge as a Business Resource Consultant with Sysco has allowed her to partner with customers to bring growth and success.
The BRC team is made up of ten subject matter experts that use industry research, tools, and trends to conduct personalized, one-on-one virtual visits with their customers to meet goals or overcome challenges. Consultation topics vary from social media and marketing to operations, but ultimately revolve around profitability and how to help restaurants successfully grow their bottom line.
Her prior experience as a Sales Consultant with Sysco St Louis allowed her to be in the field with the customer where she quickly learned there is more to the industry than food. This drive for success and dedication to her customers earned her several awards, including repeat Chairman’s Club and Torchbearer recognition, both elite groups in the Sysco Family.
Business Resource Consultant, Sysco
Over the last twenty years, Leslie Niemeyer's passion for the restaurant industry has continued to grow as she adapts to an ever-changing industry. The opportunity to share her knowledge as a Business Resource Consultant with Sysco has allowed her to partner with customers to bring growth and success.
The BRC team is made up of ten subject matter experts that use industry research, tools, and trends to conduct personalized, one-on-one virtual visits with their customers to meet goals or overcome challenges. Consultation topics vary from social media and marketing to operations, but ultimately revolve around profitability and how to help restaurants successfully grow their bottom line.
Her prior experience as a Sales Consultant with Sysco St Louis allowed her to be in the field with the customer where she quickly learned there is more to the industry than food. This drive for success and dedication to her customers earned her several awards, including repeat Chairman’s Club and Torchbearer recognition, both elite groups in the Sysco Family.
Lori Rakoczy
Associate Principal at Technomic
She concentrates on custom consumer operator research, including both qualitative and quantitative methods for domestic and global clients. Her previous experience includes serving as senior economic advisor for the U.S. Agency for International Development, and senior project manager for Morningstar, Inc. Lori holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Chicago and a master’s degree in international relations from Johns Hopkins University.
Associate Principal at Technomic
She concentrates on custom consumer operator research, including both qualitative and quantitative methods for domestic and global clients. Her previous experience includes serving as senior economic advisor for the U.S. Agency for International Development, and senior project manager for Morningstar, Inc. Lori holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Chicago and a master’s degree in international relations from Johns Hopkins University.
Peter Romeo
Restaurant Business Editor-at-large
Peter Romeo is Editor At Large and Vice President of Content Innovation for the foodservice group of Winsight Media, which includes RestaurantBusinessOnline.com and FoodServiceDirector.com.
He also helps to plan content for Winsight’s foodservice-related conferences and expositions, including the National Restaurant Association’s annual convention, the Restaurant Leadership Conference, MenuDirections and FSTEC.
As VP of content innovation, Romeo is also involved in brainstorming new ways of delivering content and generating revenue for the foodservice group.
The multi-media positions cap a 40-year career as a business journalist, including 30 years as a chain-restaurant specialist for such information channels as Nation’s Restaurant News, QSR magazine, and the website of the National Restaurant Association. Romeo’s columns for Restaurant Business earned him two Jesse H. Neal Awards, business publishing’s equivalent of the Pulitzers.
He has been a frequent speaker at industry events, and delivered the commencement address to the graduating class of the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY, in 2007.
Romeo graduated from New York University in 1979 with honors in history and journalism, and was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa. He resides in the upstate New York town of Olivebridge with his wife, Holly Klokis; three rescued greyhounds; and four slightly nervous cats.
Restaurant Business Editor-at-large
Peter Romeo is Editor At Large and Vice President of Content Innovation for the foodservice group of Winsight Media, which includes RestaurantBusinessOnline.com and FoodServiceDirector.com.
He also helps to plan content for Winsight’s foodservice-related conferences and expositions, including the National Restaurant Association’s annual convention, the Restaurant Leadership Conference, MenuDirections and FSTEC.
As VP of content innovation, Romeo is also involved in brainstorming new ways of delivering content and generating revenue for the foodservice group.
The multi-media positions cap a 40-year career as a business journalist, including 30 years as a chain-restaurant specialist for such information channels as Nation’s Restaurant News, QSR magazine, and the website of the National Restaurant Association. Romeo’s columns for Restaurant Business earned him two Jesse H. Neal Awards, business publishing’s equivalent of the Pulitzers.
He has been a frequent speaker at industry events, and delivered the commencement address to the graduating class of the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY, in 2007.
Romeo graduated from New York University in 1979 with honors in history and journalism, and was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa. He resides in the upstate New York town of Olivebridge with his wife, Holly Klokis; three rescued greyhounds; and four slightly nervous cats.
Omar Shaikh
Co-Owner of Carnevor and 3rd Street Market
Milwaukee business owner and community leader Omar Shaikh is well-known for his award-winning restaurant Carnevor, one of the top-rated steakhouses in Wisconsin known for its amazing customer service and mouth-watering cuisine. He is also a partner in Wisconsin Ticket Concierge, O & B Consulting, and 3rd Street Market Hall at The Avenue and Tuk Tuk Chicago, a short-distance electric cab service.
Omar has a passion for moving the city of Milwaukee forward through his active involvement in the community. He currently services as board chairman of VISIT Milwaukee and is a member of the Wisconsin Center District board of directors. Omar was one of the leading advocates to get approval for the long-awaited expansion of the convention center, which will greatly benefit hotels, restaurants and retailers throughout southeastern Wisconsin.
He strongly believes in giving back to the community and is chairman of the Milwaukee Kitchen Cabinet, which has put together the ‘Three Days of Christmas’ initiative for the past several years to provide holiday meals and gifts for non-profit groups. Omar and his wife, Connie, have been leaders in raising money for the area’s nonprofits and community groups, serving as co-chairs for several record-breaking fundraisers, including the Harry & Rose Sampson Jewish Community Center’s KidShare and Sharp Literacy’s ‘A Novel Event.’
Co-Owner of Carnevor and 3rd Street Market
Milwaukee business owner and community leader Omar Shaikh is well-known for his award-winning restaurant Carnevor, one of the top-rated steakhouses in Wisconsin known for its amazing customer service and mouth-watering cuisine. He is also a partner in Wisconsin Ticket Concierge, O & B Consulting, and 3rd Street Market Hall at The Avenue and Tuk Tuk Chicago, a short-distance electric cab service.
Omar has a passion for moving the city of Milwaukee forward through his active involvement in the community. He currently services as board chairman of VISIT Milwaukee and is a member of the Wisconsin Center District board of directors. Omar was one of the leading advocates to get approval for the long-awaited expansion of the convention center, which will greatly benefit hotels, restaurants and retailers throughout southeastern Wisconsin.
He strongly believes in giving back to the community and is chairman of the Milwaukee Kitchen Cabinet, which has put together the ‘Three Days of Christmas’ initiative for the past several years to provide holiday meals and gifts for non-profit groups. Omar and his wife, Connie, have been leaders in raising money for the area’s nonprofits and community groups, serving as co-chairs for several record-breaking fundraisers, including the Harry & Rose Sampson Jewish Community Center’s KidShare and Sharp Literacy’s ‘A Novel Event.’
Spencer X Smith
Founder, AmpliPhi
Spencer X Smith is the founder of social media marketing company AmpliPhi, and an instructor at the University of Wisconsin and Rutgers University. He's formerly a VP of Sales for two Fortune 100 companies.
Spencer is deemed a "Social Media Expert" by Forbes, and AmpliPhi is the winner of five consecutive (2016-2020) InBusiness Magazine Executive Choice Awards for Social Media Consulting Company. Spencer has spoken at over 250 events since 2015, including a presentation at the New York Stock Exchange in 2017.
His book "ROTOMA: The ROI of Social Media Top of Mind" was featured in Forbes, and is an Amazon Bestseller.
Founder, AmpliPhi
Spencer X Smith is the founder of social media marketing company AmpliPhi, and an instructor at the University of Wisconsin and Rutgers University. He's formerly a VP of Sales for two Fortune 100 companies.
Spencer is deemed a "Social Media Expert" by Forbes, and AmpliPhi is the winner of five consecutive (2016-2020) InBusiness Magazine Executive Choice Awards for Social Media Consulting Company. Spencer has spoken at over 250 events since 2015, including a presentation at the New York Stock Exchange in 2017.
His book "ROTOMA: The ROI of Social Media Top of Mind" was featured in Forbes, and is an Amazon Bestseller.
Keith Strew
VP of Learning & OD, Puttshack
Industry veteran with over 20 years in the L&D space currently heading up L&D for Puttshack, a tech infused Mini-golf concept. Previous concepts include Uncle Julio’s Restaurant Group, and Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group heading up talent management and training.
VP of Learning & OD, Puttshack
Industry veteran with over 20 years in the L&D space currently heading up L&D for Puttshack, a tech infused Mini-golf concept. Previous concepts include Uncle Julio’s Restaurant Group, and Del Frisco’s Restaurant Group heading up talent management and training.
Jack Woznick
Director of Training & Development, Toro, Toro, Toro
I started my hospitality career the Wisconsin way, breading cheese curds, onion rings, and perch at a local establishment in Manitowoc, WI. Restaurants intrigued me so much that I pursued a career in the industry continuing with a trip to Culinary School and double-majoring in Hotel & Restaurant Management. The education continued with attending UW-Stout for my bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management. Darden Restaurants provided incredible experiences for me to open a handful of new restaurants as a Team Member and also as a Manager. My passion for developing, training, and collaborating grew the longer I was in a restaurant and inspired me to return to UW-Stout for a Master's degree in Training and Human Resource Development. An opportunity arrived for me to leave operations and join a Milwaukee-based restaurant group as their Director of Training & Development and I've never looked back. I now oversee the implementation, training, and evaluation of New Hire Training, Management Training, Manager Development, company development, technology integrations, softwares, and partners.
Director of Training & Development, Toro, Toro, Toro
I started my hospitality career the Wisconsin way, breading cheese curds, onion rings, and perch at a local establishment in Manitowoc, WI. Restaurants intrigued me so much that I pursued a career in the industry continuing with a trip to Culinary School and double-majoring in Hotel & Restaurant Management. The education continued with attending UW-Stout for my bachelor's degree in Hospitality Management. Darden Restaurants provided incredible experiences for me to open a handful of new restaurants as a Team Member and also as a Manager. My passion for developing, training, and collaborating grew the longer I was in a restaurant and inspired me to return to UW-Stout for a Master's degree in Training and Human Resource Development. An opportunity arrived for me to leave operations and join a Milwaukee-based restaurant group as their Director of Training & Development and I've never looked back. I now oversee the implementation, training, and evaluation of New Hire Training, Management Training, Manager Development, company development, technology integrations, softwares, and partners.
