2024 Speakers

Since 2014, Jonathan has served as the CEO of Shuckin Shack Oyster Bar, a fresh seafood and cold beer concept out of Wilmington, NC. He’s been featured on the cover of FSR Magazine, appeared on Good Morning America, quoted and […]

Cheryl Whiting-Kish accepted a job as a Hooters Girl in the late 80s after serving as an assistant manager with another chain with the intention of joining HOA’s leadership team—and she did just that. At HOA, Whiting-Kish progressed through various […]

With over two years of experience as the president of bartaco, Valletta is passionate about creating an unforgettable experience for our guests, inspired by the beach culture of Brazil, Uruguay, and Southern California. Valletta oversees the strategic operations planning, revenue […]

James Walker, recognized as one of the restaurant industry’s most accomplished and sought-after executives, features deep expertise across QSR, Fast Casual and Casual theme segments. Walker is an authority in restaurant technology and delivery channels, with a focus on building […]

Susan Walmesley oversees marketing, operations and new venue openings at Puttshack as CMO. A tenured leader in the social entertainment and hospitality industry, Walmesley spent more than a decade heading up Topgolf’s marketing, advertising, internal communications and PR during its […]

Since 2005, Edie Weintraub, a seasoned restaurant real estate professional, has been at the forefront of identifying emerging restaurant brands nationally and internationally to recruit them to the Southeast. Edie’s extensive working experience in restaurant operations has made her an […]

Ian Welby is the Vice President of Beverage and Execution for Bar Louie. Ian brings a wealth of experience to his role, steering the company’s overarching beverage strategy honed through years of hands-on experience and oversight at every level of […]

Ryan Zink has served as Good Times Restaurants Inc.’s President and Chief Executive Officer since April 2020. Zink was previously Good Times’ chief financial officer and treasurer since 2017 and was later appointed acting chief executive of the company in […]