Thursday, May 1, 2025
8:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
The Biltmore Los Angeles
Celebrating 25 Years! Out-serving the Competition: Mining for Margins WELCOME
Welcome to the 25th Annual Restaurant Industry Conference!
This year’s theme centers on the economic outlook and current trends impacting the restaurant industry. Hosting the conference at the historic Biltmore Los Angeles in the heart of DTLA offers a unique venue where participants can reflect on the rich history of the hospitality industry while networking, relaxing and being served themselves!
Over the past quarter-century, the conference has become renowned as a collaborative forum for a diverse audience of restaurant owners, operators, service industry professionals, executives, lawyers, real estate developers and leaders. They come together to learn and discuss topics that matter to the industry. This year, our speakers and panels feature visionary CEOs and founders of leading restaurant brands, along with other acclaimed experts. They will cover a range of topics including the industry’s economic outlook, the impact of recent tariffs, innovative ways to reach consumers, the current mergers and acquisitions environment, effective localized store marketing tactics and using data and technology to optimize margins. Additionally, we’ll explore how emerging artificial intelligence tools can drive growth. All sessions are designed to prepare participants to out-serve the competition.
Highlighting the program this year, we honor two outstanding individuals for their contributions to the hospitality industry.
Joth Ricci, former CEO of Dutch Bros Coffee, Adelsheim Vineyard and Stumptown Coffee Roasters will be presented with this year’s Innovation Award. Our Foodmanitarian™ recipient, Father Greg Boyle, is the founder of Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles, which is the largest gang-intervention, rehabilitation and re-entry program in the world. Their ongoing contributions to the hospitality industry and Los Angeles are profound and celebrated.
The advisory board and UCLA Extension staff have been working tirelessly on this conference over the years to build collaboration across the industry, foster a culture of innovation and continued learning to support the restaurant industry. Special thanks to the dedicated Board members, including Ms. Anna Graves, Board Chair, for developing another outstanding agenda of relevant topics and expert speakers who are leading the field.
A warm “Thank You” to our generous sponsors who include: Moss Adams, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP, Dine Brands, CohnReznick, Piper Sandler & Co., Marsh McLennan Agency, Nation’s Restaurant News.
Sheila King
Chief of Staff and Assistant Dean of Strategic Initiatives, UCLA Extension
Sheila King is Chief of Staff and Assistant Dean of Strategic Initiatives at UCLA Extension, a role she has held since March 2020. She has managed the development of a 10-year strategic plan and served as the project lead for the California Virtual Training Academy, which trained over 8,500 case investigators and contact tracers for the State of California during the COVID-19 pandemic. Sheila was the project lead for UCLAxCareerBridge, an initiative funded by a $2.9 million grant through the UC Office of the President, and she led the team that launched UCLAxOpen, a platform that includes no-cost open enrollment seminars and workshops for curious students seeking a UCLA Extension educational experience. Currently, Sheila is leading initiatives to develop apprenticeship programs at UCLA Extension in collaboration with the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards. She co-leads a program for UCLA athletes who are taking post-baccalaureate certificates through UCLA Extension to complete their athletic eligibility. Most recently, she supported a team that developed and launched the UC Excelerator @ UCLA Extension, which is funded by a $6.5M grant from UCLA and UC Berkeley alumnus Scott Galloway.
Over the years Sheila has been an instructor at UCLA Extension and Santa Monica College, worked as a clinical exercise physiologist at Santa Monica Hospital, was Director of Health Promotion Programs at Centinela Hospital’s National Athletic Health Institute and has been a consultant for Microsoft Corporation, SHAPE Magazine, Southern California Edison and Johnson & Johnson Corporation, among others
A MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIR
Out-serving the Competition:
As stock markets, consumer sentiments and trade terms seem to rise and fall in increasingly short cycles, one thing stands out: opportunity. The restaurant industry is entering a transformative era. As our keynote and many of our other presenters will discuss, this is an age of great change. Economic uncertainty, rapid technological advances and evolving guest preferences mean restaurant operators must develop new strategies and implement new practices to stay ahead. There is tremendous potential for growth and many sound reasons for an optimistic outlook. We have designed our program to help operators seize that potential, increase guest traffic, energize their employees and accelerate growth momentum. Welcome to the 25th Annual Restaurant Industry Conference hosted by UCLA Extension. Today you will learn how leading restaurant companies are navigating the challenges of today’s environment by utilizing artificial intelligence, localized store marketing and pricing strategies to connect with their guests and build loyalty, and how to maximize value, raise capital and foster an employee-centric workplace. Laying the base for our day of learning, Professor Jerry Nickelsburg from the UCLA Anderson Forecast will provide an economic outlook for the restaurant industry, and our keynote, John Peyton, CEO of Dine Brands, will explain why brands need to innovate and reach their consumers in new ways. Fred LeFranc, founder of Results Thru Strategy, will further explore these ideas with John in a Q&A session. Father Gregory Boyle, founder of Homeboy Industries and powerful advocate for creating a place of belonging, second chances and renewed hope, is our Foodmanitarian™ Award recipient. Fr. Greg will be honored for his lifelong commitment to creating a community of kinship, healing and transformation through Homeboy Industries, the world’s largest gang rehabilitation and re-entry program. Joth Ricci, formerly of Dutch Bros and befittingly known as the “Founder Whisperer,” will receive our Innovation Award. Joth will discuss with Lauren Bailey, CEO of Upwards Projects, how he has significantly scaled founder-led businesses without sacrificing their original culture. Jon Ang of Brentwood Associates will lead a panel focusing on “Controlling What You Can Control” with insights from the visionary Founders & CEOs of three exceptional brands: Chris Simms of Lazy Dog Restaurants, Mike Simms of Simms Restaurant Group and Briana Valdez of HomeState. Michael Lukianoff will lead a thoughtful discussion with Shannon Hennessy, CEO of Habit Burger, Bill Schaffler, CEO of HiBar Hospitality, and Kirk Thompson of MiguelsJR.com about consumer price/value perception and how to use the right tools to measure it and “Price Right.” Michael Choreyk of Wendy’s, Leon Davoyan of Dave’s Hot Chicken, and Jason Suarez of Dine Brands will speak with Tammy Billings of SignalFlare.ai about how to drive growth using technology. We will also explore how localized store marketing can help to connect with consumers more authentically in a discussion with Alan Nathan of Sweetfin, Taylor Voelker of Round Table Pizza, Alexis Eldridge formerly of Pressed Juicery and Joshua Vecerra of Xperience, led
Mining for Margins
Anna M. Graves
Conference Chair; Partner & Co-Leader of the Restaurant, Food & Beverage Industry Group, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP
Anna Graves is Co-Leader of Pillsbury’s Restaurant, Food & Beverage Industry Group and a partner in the Firm’s Corporate & Securities Practice. Anna has broad experience in mergers and acquisitions, private equity transactions, joint ventures, brand licensing, start-up structuring and restaurant management and license agreements. Her clients include major national and international restaurant chains and retailers, early-stage restaurant ventures, food and beverage manufacturers and distributors and consumer product companies.
Ms. Graves regularly advises global operators as they bring their brands to the U.S. or invest in existing U.S. companies. She was designated an Acritas Star and selected by the Los Angeles Business Journal as one of Southern California’s Most Influential Women Lawyers.
by Alex Nocifera of LOMA. We will also be guided through the current restaurant M&A environment by a panel of PE and investment banking professionals, Ryan Greene, KarpReilly, Giles Kersten, Gala Capital Partners, and Robert Woolway at CriticalPoint, led by Mike Pihowich of Moss Adams. I am honored to serve as Chair of the conference. The conference’s continued success is the product of our speakers’ willingness to share their expertise, the time and efforts of the dedicated individuals on the Advisory Board and the financial commitment of our generous sponsors. I thank each of them. I know you will return to your office tomorrow full of energy and with a host of thought-provoking ideas and inspired plans to “Out-serve the Competition.” That was our goal.
AGENDA
7:30 A.M.–8:30 A.M.
Registration & Continental Breakfast
8:30 A.M.–8:45 A.M.
Welcome & Program Overview
Sheila King, Chief of Staff and Assistant Dean for Strategic Initiatives, UCLA Extension
Anna M. Graves, Partner and Co-Leader of the Restaurant, Food & Beverage Industry Group, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP
8:45 A.M.–9:35 A.M.
The Economic Outlook in a Very Uncertain World for the Restaurant Industry
Economic policy has changed radically since January 19 with a plethora of tariffs, the “DOGEification” of the government and deportations of a portion of the workforce. This session will cover the implications and risks associated with new economic policy with an emphasis on the potential for a nearterm recession and for a near-term spurt of economic growth
Jerry Nickelsburg, Adjunct Professor of Economics and Faculty Director of UCLA Anderson Forecast, UCLA Anderson School of Management
9:35 A.M.–10:20 A.M.
Keynote: The Age of Great Change
In this session, the CEO of Dine Brands Global—parent company of Applebee’s, IHOP and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop—will give us a look at the headlines and trendlines impacting businesses today, what it means to lead in this age of change and why now, more than ever, brands need to innovate and reach their consumers in new ways.
INTERVIEWER
Fred LeFranc, CEO, Results Thru Strategy SPEAKER
John Peyton, CEO, Dine Brands Global
Agenda and speakers are subject to change.
John Peyton is Chief Executive Officer of Dine Brands. Dine passionately nurtures and grows the world’s favorite restaurant brands—Applebee’s, IHOP and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop. Prior to joining Dine Brands, John served as President and CEO of the Realogy Franchise Group. In addition, John held various operations and marketing roles during an 18-year career with Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc. He is a recognized global branding and operations leader who brings profound experience leading large, complex organizations while enabling innovation and agility. John holds an MBA in accounting and marketing from New York University’s Stern School of Business and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania. He is active in the community with several organizations supporting the health and welfare of children, including as a member of the board of directors for Child Advocates of Southern Connecticut.
10:20 A.M.–10:45 A.M. Networking Break
10:45 A.M.–11:30 A.M.
Fireside Chat with Private Equity and Investment Bankers on Navigating a Sale in an Uncertain Economy
In this insightful session, our panel of private equity and investment banking professionals will guide you through aspects of the current restaurant M&A environment as well as prepare your restaurant business for a profitable sale or merger. You’ll discover key economic insights and strategies, including the importance of early exit strategy planning. Learn how to maximize valuation by understanding the factors that influence its value, such as brand recognition and growth potential. By attending, you’ll gain valuable knowledge to navigate the complexities of the current economy, ensuring you’re well-prepared to maximize your returns and achieve a successful exit.
MODERATOR
Mike Pihowich, Partner, Moss Adams PANELISTS
Robert Woolway, Managing Director, Investment Banking, CriticalPoint
Ryan Greene, Partner, KarpReilly, LLC
Gilles Kersten, Vice President, Gala Capital Partners
11:30 A .M.–12:15 P.M.
Brands Bringing LSM Back into the Marketing Mix
In today’s noisy and competitive consumer landscape, brands need to break out every tactic in the book to acquire consumer attention. LSM is the oldest, most tried and true way to authentically connect with consumers in your restaurant’s trade area. Learn how marketers and brands leverage LSM to drive trial and growth in today’s marketing landscape.
MODERATOR
Alex Nocifera, CEO, LOMA PANELISTS
Joshua Becerra, Chief Marketing Officer, Xperience Restaurant Group
Alexis Eldridge, President, ae marketing
Alan Nathan, CEO, Sweetfin
Taylor Voelker, Head of Marketing, Round Table Pizza
12:15 P.M.–12:45 P.M.
Break & Luncheon
12:45 P.M.–1:45 P.M.
Foodmanitarian™ Award Presentation
AWARD RECIPIENT
Father Gregory Boyle, Founder, Homeboy Industries INTERVIEWER
Dr. Eric A. Bullard, Dean of Continuing Education, UCLA Extension SPEAKER
Edin Madrid, Homeboy Industries Alumni
1:45 P.M.–2:00 P.M.
Networking Break
2:00 P.M.–2:45 P.M. Price Right
What was once a simple question to answer has become more important and complex in a rapidly changing economic and competitive environment. Restaurants are threading the needle between maintaining profitable price points and managing declining guest counts. Learn how brands are managing these challenges through data and technology that provide better measurement of consumer price/value perception.
MODERATOR
Michael Lukianoff, CEO & Founder, SignalFlair.ai PANELISTS
Shannon Hennessy, CEO, Habit Burger
Bill Schaffler, CFO, Hopdoddy Burger Bar
Kirk Thompson , VP Marketing, Miguel’s Restaurants
2:45 P.M.–3:30 P.M.
Driving Growth with Artificial Intelligence
Learn how high-growth restaurant groups are leveraging AI, automation and robotics to enhance guest experiences, improve order accuracy and stay at the forefront of the industry. Hear inside stories of how these innovative technologies can shape a brand and support remarkable expansion.
MODERATOR
Tammy Billings, VP, Business Development, SignalFlare.ai PANELISTS
Michael Chorey, Leading Innovation and Ai at Wendy’s. Founder of FreshAi
Leon Davoyan, CTO, Dave’s Hot Chicken
Jason Suarez, Vice President of Digital, Business Intelligence and CRM Engineering, Dine Brands
3:30 P.M.–3:50 P.M.
Networking Break
3:50 P.M.–4:40 P.M.
Innovation Award Presentation
AWARD RECIPIENT
Joth Ricci, Former CEO Dutch Bros Coffee, Adelsheim Vineyard, and Stumptown Coffee Roasters
INTERVIEWER
Lauren Bailey, CEO & Co-Founder, Upward Projects Restaurant Group
4:40 P.M.–5:30 P.M.
Control
What You Can Control: Founder and CEO Perspectives
In this engaging discussion, three visionary CEOs and founders of leading restaurant brands will share the strategies that have enabled them to navigate the opportunities and challenges of today’s fast-evolving restaurant industry. Whether it is branding and marketing, new unit expansion, pricing strategies, fostering an employee-centric culture or raising capital, these executives will provide valuable insights drawn from their personal growth journeys. Expect actionable takeaways and fresh perspectives that you can apply directly to your own operations as you look to thrive in this increasingly competitive market.
MODERATOR
John Ang, Managing Director, Brentwood Associates PANELISTS
Chris Simms, Founder & CEO, Lazy Dog Restaurants
Mike Simms, CEO, Founder & Owner, Simms Restaurants
Briana Valdez, Founder & CEO, HomeState
5:30 P.M.–7:00 P.M.
Closing Remarks and Evening Reception
INNOVATION AWARD AND ARMCHAIR CONVERSATION
INNOVATION AWARD RECIPIENT
Joth Ricci
Former CEO of Dutch Bros Coffee, Adelsheim Vineyard & Stumptown Coffee Roasters
Joth Ricci served Dutch Bros as President, Chief Executive Officer and Board Member from January 2019to January 2024, where he led the company through a 5-year strategic growth plan and IPO in September, 2021. Throughout his career, Mr. Ricci has led several founder-built companies, including Adelsheim Vineyard, Stumptown Coffee and Jones Soda.
In addition to his leadership in the beverage industry, Mr. Ricci is the past Chairman of the Oregon Business Council, has served on the state of Oregon’s Racial Justice Council and co-founded TASTE for Equity. He also currently serves on the Oregon State University Food Science Advisory Council and is Vice Chairman of the Children’s Institute. Through his work with The System, Mr. Ricci is dedicated to mentoring and advising boards, organizations, leadership teams and individuals on culture, personal and organizational development, strategic planning and training.
INTERVIEWER
Lauren
Bailey
CEO & Co-Founder, Upward Projects Restaurant Group
Lauren Bailey is the co-founder and CEO of Postino WineCafé and its parent company, Upward Projects, an Arizona-based restaurant development and hospitality company known for one thing: making people feel good. Spanning 32 restaurants across six states, Upward Projects is comprised of a primary growth brand, Postino, as well as “indies” Joyride Taco House, Windsor, Churn Ice Cream and Federal Pizza. Ms. Bailey sits on numerous boards, including Brand USA.
AWARD
PRESENTED TO FATHER GREGORY BOYLE
FOODMANITARIAN™
Father Gregory Boyle
Founder of Homeboy Industries
Fr. Greg Boyle, a Jesuit priest, is the founder of Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles, the largest gang-intervention, rehabilitation and re-entry program in the world. Homeboy Industries employs and trains former gang members in a range of social enterprises, as well as provides critical services to the thousands of individuals who walk through its doors every year. He is the author of the 2010 New York Times bestseller Tattoos on the Heart: The Power of Boundless Compassion, and was the recipient of 2024 Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Dr. Eric A. Bullard
Dean, Division of Continuing Education and UCLA Extension
Dr. Eric A. Bullard currently serves as the Dean of the Division of Continuing Education and Extension at the University of California, Los Angeles. UCLA Extension is one of the largest continuing and professional education providers in the United States, serving more than 38,000 students annually across 102 academic certificate and specialization programs. In addition to serving as Dean, Dr. Bullard also oversees the University of California (U.C.) system-wide Continuing Education of the Bar (CEB), California’s preeminent continuing legal education and research provider, based out of Oakland, California
Dr. Bullard has more than 24 years of experience in higher education, previously serving in academic and administrative roles at California State University (CSU) campuses at Bakersfield, San Marcos, Long Beach and Los Angeles. Before arriving at UCLA, Dr. Bullard most recently served as Associate Vice President of International Programs and Global Engagement and Dean of the College of Professional and Global Education at Cal State L.A .
Throughout his career, Dr. Bullard has been a change agent, thought leader and growth advisor, assisting multiple academic institutions in developing and launching new programs, satellite campuses and strategic partnerships to reach their highest potential. As a first-generation college graduate and a member of the Cherokee Nation, Bullard is passionate about extending access to higher education to underserved communities. He completed his Ph.D. in Education at Colorado State University, Fort Collins, and his Master of Public Administration (MPA) and Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science, Pre-Law, at California State University, Bakersfield.
SPEAKERS
Jon Ang, Managing Director, Brentwood Associates
Jon is a Managing Director at Brentwood Associates and focuses on opportunities in the foodservice and consumer sector. Partner companies at Brentwood that Jon works with include Lazy Dog Restaurants, Upward Projects, Hissho Sushi and Far West. Prior to joining Brentwood, Jon spent eight years at Investcorp International Inc., was a Luce Scholar in Thailand and was an analyst at DLJ. He graduated from the University of Pennsylvania and lives in Los Angeles.
Joshua Becerra, CMO, Xperience
As the Chief Marketing Officer of Xperience Restaurant Group, Joshua Becerra brings 20 years of expertise in strategic marketing, branding and hospitality operations, offering well-rounded insight to create a seamless and dynamic guest experience. Prior to joining XRG, Becerra served as the Vice President of Marketing and PR for The ONE Group, where he played a pivotal role in expanding STK Steakhouse and Kona Grill globally.
Tammy Billings, VP, Business Development, SignalFlare.ai
Tammy, a former marketing leader turned restaurant technology advisor, is currently working with SignalFlare.ai, Devour.io, Ovation and GoZone WiFi Marketing. She is the founder of Industry Bias, a forthcoming job site that serves restaurant industry executives. In March, she received an Innovator Award as a Top Woman in Restaurant Tech. Find her weekly on Rock My Restaurant, a podcast with Paul Barron or via WORTH, the women’s group she co-founded.
Michael Chorey, Founder, FreshAi
As the leader of Wendy’s innovation department and founder of FreshAi, Michael is redefining industry standards in Generative AI by transforming Wendy’s into a global technology pioneer. FreshAi, the world’s first automated order-taking agent co-developed with Google Cloud, disrupts traditional drive-thru operations with consistent, on-brand customer experiences and optimized performance. By balancing speed, sales and crew experience, FreshAi surpasses human counterparts, boosting throughput and revenue through strategic upsells.
Leon Davoyan, CTO, Dave’s Hot Chicken
Leon is an innovative technology leader with a proven record in driving digital transformation and global expansion across industries like hospitality, entertainment and gaming. Starting in theme parks, his career has spanned leadership roles in quick service, fine dining, gaming, nightlife and hotels, helping three companies grow from startup to global brands. As CTO of Dave’s Hot Chicken, he leads technology strategies to scale the business and maintain its position as the fastest growing chain in America, leveraging innovation to stay relevant with its core demographic in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Alexis Eldridge, Co-Founder and President, ae marketing
A dynamic and results-driven marketing executive, Alexis Eldridge is renowned for her ability to lead organizations beyond their expectations and redefine success. With a proven track record across fast-paced global brands in the food and beverage, CPG, DTC and health and wellness sectors. Throughout her career, Alexis has led brands such as Pressed Juicery, Yogurtland, WTRMLN WTR, Nekter Juice Bar, Wahoo’s Fish Tacos, Starbucks and ConAgra, providing strategic oversight and executing highimpact initiatives that boost performance, culture and market engagement. As President of ae marketing group, Alexis offers fractional CMO and brand consulting services across diverse industries, helping brands craft compelling narratives that resonate with consumers and elevate business performance. An alumna of Chapman University, Alexis is based in Southern California, where she continues to drive change and inspire innovation in the world of marketing.
Ryan Greene, Partner, KarpReilly, LLC
Ryan Greene is a partner at KarpReilly
Growth Investors, a private equity firm focused on growing consumer brands, including restaurants, omnichannel brands and traditional CPG. In his role at KarpReilly, Ryan works closely with brand founders and executives to drive growth, improve operational efficiency and facilitate strategic expansion. His experience includes successful investments and exits with brands such as Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurants and Eureka! Restaurants. Ryan currently serves on the boards of Starbird Chicken and American Gonzo Restaurants. He holds dual degrees in Economics and Computer Science from the University of Pennsylvania.
Shannon Hennessy, CEO, Habit Burger
Shannon Hennessy is the Chief Executive Officer of The Habit Burger Grill Division, reporting directly to the Yum! Brands CEO. Hennessy previously served as President of The Habit Burger Grill Division. She first joined Yum! in 2020 as the Chief Financial Officer of KFC Global Division and oversaw the brand’s Financial Planning, Supply Chain Management and Strategy functions. Prior to joining Yum!, she worked for McKinsey & Company, where she served as Managing Partner of the Dallas office and served clients in retail, packaged goods, travel and logistics industries.
Gilles Kersten, Vice President, Gala Capital Partners
Gilles has over 15 years of experience in corporate finance and mergers & acquisitions (M&A). He spent the first five years of his career as an investment banker in M&A advisory, working on a variety of M&A projects across various industries, both as a sell-side and buy-side adviser. Afterwards, Gilles spent three years working in the Corporate M&A department of a global chemical company, where he took part in developing and executing the company’s nonorganic growth strategy. In 2017, Gilles joined Gala Capital Partners, a family office focused on investments in restaurant chains and restaurant tech. As VP of M&A, Gilles plays a key role in originating, executing, integrating and monitoring all of Gala Capital Partners’ acquisitions and investments. Gilles obtained his bachelor’s degree in Economics & Business from the University of Amsterdam in 2007. Furthermore, he holds a master’s degree in Finance from the University of Amsterdam and an MBA from the University of California, Irvine.
Fred Le Franc, CEO, Results Thru Strategy
Currently, Fred holds the position of President, CEO, Chaos Strategist and Consultant with Results Thru Strategy, a restaurant consulting company he founded in 2006. Fred’s mission is to support company owners and executives while driving change and implementing long-term sustainable growth strategies. On a day-today basis, Fred leads project teams and is responsible for business development initiatives. His confidentiality and discretion are sought after and he serves as a trusted advisor to executive leadership teams and CEOs, offering guidance throughout the often challenging and complex path to business stability and profitability.
Michael Lukianoff, CEO, SignalFlare.ai
Mike Lukianoff is an entrepreneur and data science pioneer, specializing in analytics for retail and restaurants. As founder of SignalFlare.ai, he leads innovation in decision intelligence, helping restaurants optimize pricing, promotions and targeted marketing. His solutions have been leveraged by over 60% of the top 200 U.S. restaurant chains. A recognized thought leader, Mike’s insights have been featured in QSR Magazine, Nation’s Restaurant News and Fast Casual Magazine.
Jerry Nickelsburg, PhD, Adjunct Full Professor of Economics and Director
UCLA Anderson Forecast, UCLA Anderson School of Management
Jerry Nickelsburg joined the UCLA Anderson School of Management and the UCLA Anderson Forecast in 2006. Since 2017, he has served as faculty director of the Forecast. Nickelsburg plays a key role in the economic modeling and forecasting of the national, California and regional economic forecasts. He has conducted special studies for the UCLA Anderson Forecast on manufacturing, trade and labor markets.
Alan Nathan, CEO, Sweetfin
Alan Nathan’s extensive restaurant and hospitality expertise, combined with his knowledge of fast casual restaurant dining, led him to open Sweetfin where he serve as the CEO and Co Founder. Sweetfin is a healthy, chef-driven, California inspired poke concept designed with the mission of providing nutritious and flavorful bowls in an approachable way, by using local produce, highest-quality sustainable fish and innovative ingredients all at a reasonable price point. Since opening their first location in Santa Monica, Sweetfin has become a favorite premium brand in the sector and continues to strive in an ever-competitive casual fine dining market.
Alex Nocifera, CEO, LOMA
Alex is an experienced entrepreneur who’s launched four venture-backed companies, all focused on helping multi-location enterprise brands drive local success. Over the last 20 years, his companies have worked with hundreds of national brands and over 35,000 of their local storefronts as customers in driving growth and scale. Alex graduated from University of Arizona and resides in Venice Beach, California.
John Peyton, CEO, Dine Brands Global See Agenda page for full bio.
Mike Pihowich, Partner, Moss Adams
Michael has nearly 30 years of business experience and has focused on transaction advisory services since 2007. Michael advises private equity and corporate clients on buy- and sell-side transactions in multiple industries. He specializes in consumer products sold through channels including e-commerce, multi-unit retail, wholesale and specialty, including restaurants that are corporateowned or franchised. Prior to transaction advisory services, Michael held positions in business finance, global product management, corporate strategy and business development at large multinational companies.
Bill Schaffler, CFO, Hopdoddy Burger Bar
Bill Schaffler joined Hopdoddy Burger Bar, LLC, as CFO in September 2024. Bill entered the industry with Carlson Restaurants Worldwide as a Director of Financial Analysis and Planning. From 2002 to 2007, he served as Chief Financial Officer for La Madeleine French Bakery and Cafe. In 2007, he recognized a need for stronger insights into operating performance for the industry and was a founding partner and original President of Black Box Intelligence. Bill has also served as President of Ascension Coffee and CFO for Nothing Bundt Cakes as they grew from 150 to over 300 units.
Chris Simms, CEO/Founder, Lazy Dog Restaurants
Born and raised in Southern California, Chris Simms has been in the restaurant business all his life. While at Cornell University, he worked at various restaurants in the kitchen and dining room. In 2003, he opened the first Lazy Dog Restaurant, which is known for handcrafted American food and drinks with seasonally inspired ingredients. As CEO, he continues to lead its expansion, with the 53rd location opening in March 2025.
Mike Simms, CEO, Founder & Owner, Simms Restaurants
Mike Simms, a Southern California native, grew up in the restaurant industry and honed his craft at Cornell’s Hotel School. As founder of Simms Restaurant Group—10 restaurants under 7 brands with a 28-room boutique hotel opening next year—he prioritizes craft food, beer and wine while fostering education and mentorship. When not in restaurants, Mike enjoys surfing, flying and family time in Manhattan Beach.
Jason Suarez, Vice President of Digital, Business Intelligence and CRM Engineering at Dine Brands Global
Jason Suarez currently serves as the Vice President of Digital, Business Intelligence and CRM Engineering at Dine Brands Global. With a proven track record in the technology industry, Jason excels in building and deploying innovative products and solutions that enhance guest and team member satisfaction, drive business growth and optimize a company’s data strategy. Within his role, Jason has contributed to several key initiatives, including the launch of IHOP’s loyalty program and incubation of its various A.I. efforts, while continuing to oversee the build out and implementation of transformative technologies across Dine and all three of the company’s brands – Applebee’s, IHOP and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop. Jason received his Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and History from the University of California Berkeley and his M.B.A from the UCLA Anderson School of Management.
Kirk Thompson, VP Marketing, Miguel’s Restaurants
Kirk Thompson is a CEO-Whisperer, partnering with executive teams to enhance strategy, revenue growth, market expansion and customer experience. His extensive leadership success includes corporate roles with IHOP, URW-Westfield, Hilton Hotels and Coca-Cola. Among his diverse fractional CMO/CXO roles are Miguel’s Restaurants, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf and Slice Factory Pizza in Chicago. Kirk specializes in clarifying business strategies, value propositions and technology solutions that accelerate revenue and digital performance.
Briana Valdez, Founder & CEO of HomeState
Briana Valdez is the daughter of Mexican American parents, was born in Houston, and raised around different parts of Texas. After graduating from college in Austin, she moved to L.A., where she longed for the familiar food of home: breakfast tacos, queso and flour tortillas. It simply did not exist in L.A. In 2013, after hosting pop-ups in her backyard, she raised just enough funds to open the doors of HomeState. She has since opened eight locations across Los Angeles and San Diego County.
Taylor Voelker, Head of Marketing, Round Table Pizza
Taylor Voelker is the Head of Marketing for Round Table Pizza, overseeing strategy, partnerships and a $17M media budget for nearly 400 franchised locations. With 13+ years in franchise restaurant marketing, Taylor has led efforts at Blaze Pizza, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Cinnabon International and more. Now based in California, Taylor enjoys the outdoors with her rescue pup, Lovie, who inspired a side business, Joya— Diamonds for Dogs.
Robert Woolway, Managing Director, Investment Banking, CriticalPoint
Bob is responsible for sourcing and executing strategic transactions in the food, agriculture and restaurant sectors and brings over 30 years of investment banking experience. He has advised on a significant number of transactions for restaurant clients, including stand-alone concepts, franchisors and franchisees. His clients include Snowfox, Connor Concepts and Norm’s Restaurants. Bob earned his degree in Economics with honors from Harvard University, and earned his MBA from Stanford University.
ADVISORY BOARD
Daryl Ansel, Director of Hospitality, Presidio of San Francisco
Daryl Ansel is Director of Hospitality for the Presidio of San Francisco, overseeing hotels, restaurants, special events and golf on this iconic National Park site, a part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Previously, Mr. Ansel was the Associate Dean of Students and Executive Director of the ASUC Student Union on the UC Berkeley campus, leading a wide array of services, programs and activities that promote community, individual growth, responsible citizenship and global leadership to enhance the co-curricular experience for UC Berkeley students. Mr. Ansel’s 20-plus years of experience include executive-level positions in both operations and finance at a diverse and prestigious group of organizations, including L.A. Kitchen, UCLA Dining Services, the Starr Restaurant Organization, Grill Concepts and Universal Studios Hollywood. Mr. Ansel holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from the University of California at Berkeley and a master’s in Hospitality Management from Cornell University’s prestigious School of Hotel Administration.
David Birzon, CEO, Snooze, an AM Eatery In 2011, David and his family moved to Carbondale, Colorado. He set out to find a restaurant business that “could change the world.” David heard about an innovative breakfast concept named Snooze and was immediately blown away by how differentiated the concept was. David became the CEO of Snooze in 2012 and was nicknamed “Old Major,” after the pig who leads all the other animals to revolution in George Orwell’s Animal Farm. Under David’s leadership, Snooze has grown to more than 71 restaurants across nine states, with over 3,000 employees.
Damon Chandik, Co-Head of Consumer Investment Banking, Piper Sandler & Co.
Damon Chandik is the global co-head of the Consumer Group and leads restaurant investment banking at Piper Sandler. He is focused on providing investment banking, mergers and acquisitions and debt advisory services to consumer companies. He has more than 20 years of investment banking experience, including public equity and debt offerings, private capital raising, mergers, acquisitions, leveraged buyouts and recapitalizations.
David E. Goldstein, Chief Operating Officer, Sharky’s Woodfired Mexican Grill
As chief operating officer of Sharky’s Woodfired Mexican Grill, David has been an integral part of the company’s strategic planning and growth since 2007. He has a background in the fast casual sector and is an industry veteran with more than 35 years of progressive management, operations and R&D experience. During his career, David has been involved at the executive level in the expansion of three national restaurant concepts, including TGI Friday’s, Kenny Rogers Roasters and Baja Fresh. His experience in organizing and directing successful teams to establish new enterprises, enhance businesses and build profitable operations is an asset to Sharky’s. David is an experienced cook and brings that innate knowledge to menu development at Sharky’s.
Anna M. Graves, Conference Chair, Partner, and Co-Leader of the Restaurant, Food & Beverage Industry Group Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman, LLP
(See “A Message from the Chair” page for full bio.)
Andew Hunter, Culinary Research and Development Chef
Chef Andrew is one of the country’s leading research and development chefs. He is head of culinary R&D for Wolfgang Puck Worldwide, Executive Chef for Niman Ranch and Global Development Chef for Kikkoman. He is Co-Founder of both KOGI L.A. Street Sauces and Hi Note, a plant-based, chefdriven seasoning company. He has appeared as the R&D expert on Lifetime’s Supermarket Superstar, a season regular on CNBC’s Restaurant Startup and Food Network’s Selena + Restaurant
Justine Hunter, Partner, National Practice Leader, Restaurants, Moss Adams, LLP
Justine is a coordinating audit partner and has served the retail and consumer product industries for over 39 years. She’s served the restaurant industry since 2003. Justine’s role as the National Practice Leader for Restaurants has given her a unique experience of the variations between the types of concepts and issues that they face. Justine is a recipient of the Moss Adams Technical Excellence Award. Additionally, she works closely with several private equity firms that specialize in the restaurant industry and has gained their trust. Previously a partner with a Big Four firm, her experience includes acquisition-related services, financial structuring, complex equity structuring and other acquisitions and due diligence opportunities. She’s participated in more than 20 public fundings for her clients, including IPOs, SPACs, public debt transactions and restructurings and public merger transactions.
Michael Patrick, Client Executive & Private Equity Practice, Marsh McLennan Agency (MMA)
Michael Patrick serves as a client executive and member of the Private Equity Practice for Marsh & McLennan Agency (MMA). He brings with him more than 15 years of experience within insurance, focusing on transactional diligence, human capital, risk analysis and employment benefits strategies.
Michael is responsible for analyzing clients’ risk exposures and providing tailored risk management and human capital solutions. In addition to overseeing his clients’ programs, Michael deploys in-house risk and loss, claims management resources and ensures exceptional day-to-day service for the clients he manages.
Before coming to MMA, Michael was an executive director at Crystal & Company and the managing director for Gallagher Equity Advisors at Arthur J. Gallagher. He has advised on more than $10 billion in transactions.
Lauralynn Rogers, Executive Director, Internal Audit, Dine Brands Global
Lauralynn Rogers leads the internal audit function that delivers financial, operational, SOX and IT audit services. In addition, she oversees the franchisee sales verification audit program. To enhance the internal audit process, her team identifies and executes audit innovation opportunities, including automation and audit analytics. Ms. Rogers makes regular presentations to the Audit Committee of the Dine Brands Board of Directors. Ms. Rogers has over 20 years of auditing and consulting experience and began her career in the audit practice at EY.
