2025 Speakers

Kristen Hohl joined Logan’s Roadhouse in 2018 as a Marketing Manager, marking the beginning of her journey with SPB Hospitality. In 2020, she became SPB’s Marketing Director, followed by a promotion to Senior Director of Marketing in 2022. Demonstrating exceptional […]

Amy Hom brings over 30 years of impactful leadership in the restaurant industry and technology innovation space, Amy is currently the Chief Operating Officer at Barcelona Wine Bar. Previously, Amy served as the Chief Operating Officer and Chief People Officer […]

Tricia Houston, Vice President of Discovery & Design at KS&R, brings visionary leadership and a deep understanding of consumer behavior to the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry. Known for her expertise in mixed-method research and cross-functional collaboration, Tricia excels in helping […]

Vicki Hormann is Executive Director, Off-Premise of Applebee’s Grill + Bar. A seasoned leader, Vicki manages and develops an industry-leading team of off-premise experts driving a $1 billion line of business through innovation and technology. Her team is laser-focused on […]

Ahsan Jiva serves as EVP of Strategy and Transformation for Mellow Mushroom, the stone-baked pizza titan with 160+ locations nationwide. His expertise spans new prototype development, operational efficiency, data strategy, and innovative digital products for both franchisees and customers. He […]

With a creative mind and a knack for chemistry, Atlanta native Peter Kiley’s journey to  becoming Monday Night Brewing Brewmaster is one-of-a-kind. Originally planning to pursue  medical school, Kiley studied chemistry in college at the University of Georgia, but his […]

Scott Lawton is the co-founder and Chairman of the Board of bartaco, a coastal-inspired restaurant renowned for its fresh, upscale street food and relaxed dining atmosphere. With over 25 years of leadership experience in the restaurant industry, Lawton’s expertise brings […]

Jennifer Loper is the President of C3 Brand Marketing, an industry-leading design and brand marketing agency that creates connections with customers, from families with children to Gen Zers. With over two decades of industry expertise, Jennifer’s leadership is marked by […]

Christine Lorusso is the Vice President of Digital Marketing at Firebirds Wood Fired Grill. With more than 15 years of experience in the digital industry, Christine began her career on the agency side, working with clients to reach their digital […]

Roman Maliszewski is the founder and CEO of Tapster, the innovative self-pour tasting room franchise reshaping the way communities connect over craft beverages. A Chicagoland native and Princeton University graduate, Roman began his career in San Francisco’s competitive advertising industry, […]