Agenda

Insights that matter. Connections that last.

The wait is finally over! We're pleased to share a sneak peek of the Spring Conference agenda.

With an agenda built by supply chain professionals in the restaurant industry, we're dedicated to delivering content that's both practical and actionable, adding real value to your experience.

Agenda

General Session – Zurich Ballroom
Meals – Vevey
Networking Breaks – Zurich Pre-Function
Reception & Dinner Thursday Evening – Offshore Rooftop (Transportation Provided)

Thursday, May 16

 

11:00 a.m.

Registration Desk Opens 
Zurich Registration
 

11:00 a.m.

Headshots Available
Zurich Pre-Function
 

2:15 p.m.

Operational Excellence with Charles Watson: Navigating Growth at Tropical Smoothie Cafe
Join us for an in-depth conversation with Charles Watson, CEO of Tropical Smoothie Cafe, as we delve into the operational strategies and logistics that have propelled the brand to over 1,400 cafes in 44 states. Gain insights into the leadership philosophies and decisions that have guided one of the fastest-growing restaurant franchises in the U.S and the critical role supply chain plays. This conversation will be a blend of professional wisdom and personal narrative, offering a unique perspective on achieving success in the foodservice sector during uncertain times.

Speaker: 

• Charles Watson, Chief Executive Officer, Tropical Smoothie Cafe

Moderator:

• Kristi Kingery, Senior Vice President of Supply Chain, Tropical Smoothie Cafe
   

3:15 p.m.

Networking Break
Headshots Available During Break
 

3:45 p.m.

Traceability – How prepared are you for FSMA Implementation? 
This session offers a unique lens on traceability from the viewpoints of operators, distributors, and suppliers. Learn from the experiences of industry peers as we navigate the complexities of implementing robust traceability systems to meet FSMA (Food Safety Modernization Act) requirements. Discussion will include insights that may even transform your view, highlighting the benefits awaiting on the other side of compliance.

Moderator:

• Rick Buttner, Principal, Buttner & Associates Consulting

Panelists:

• Meggan Hodgson, Vice President of Food Safety and Quality Assurance, High Liner Foods
• David Kraus, Chief Strategy Officer, Produce Alliance
• Stacie Sanders, Senior Compliance Manager, ARCOP, Inc.

4:25 p.m.

Day One Wrap-Up

Speaker:

• Dessi Zaneva, Vice President of Strategic Sourcing, Jersey Mike's Franchise Systems, Inc.
   

6:00 p.m.

Buses Begin Loading for Reception & Dinner at Offshore Rooftop
 

6:30 p.m.

Reception & Dinner
Offshore Rooftop, 1000 E Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611

Friday, May 17

 

7:30 a.m.

Breakfast
 

8:30 a.m.

Opening Remarks

Speaker:

• Kristi Kingery, Senior Vice President of Supply Chain, Tropical Smoothie Cafe

8:40 a.m.

Navigating Commodities: Economic Forces, Trends and Your Questions Answered
Experience Dhamu's distinctive, data-driven, and engaging take on the ever-evolving commodities market. You’ll get practical knowledge geared for the unique needs of foodservice, deepening your understanding of market dynamics for strategic decision-making. This year, the format adds a fresh twist: after a 30-minute overview, the floor will open for a Q&A session. So come prepared with your questions to make the most of this opportunity!

Speaker:

• Dhamu Thamodaran, Advisor, National Restaurant Association Supply Chain Expert Exchange
   

9:30 a.m.

Regulatory Roadmap: What’s Ahead for the Foodservice Supply Chain
Are you ready for the next Prop 12? This session covers the latest rules and upcoming regulations shaping the foodservice industry. Learn how these changes could influence operators and their supply chain partners, equipping you with the knowledge to prepare for future challenges and adapt pathways for success.

Speaker:

• Laura Abshire, Director of Food and Sustainability Policy, National Restaurant Association
   

10:00 a.m.

Networking Break
 

10:40 a.m.

Unlocking Distribution Strategies
This session tackles key areas of modern foodservice distribution. We will hear firsthand driver insights for overall efficiency; discuss strategies to become a more attractive customer to distributors and how and when to utilize re-distribution strategies for maximized inventory control, minimized waste, and cost savings.

Moderator:    

• David Cox, Founder/Chief Executive Officer, Cox Supply Chain Management Advisors

Panelists:    

• Donna Eskew, Chief Commercial Officer, Supply Management Service, Inc. (Popeye’s Supply Chain)
• Stephen Higgs, Senior Vice President, Global Operations, Sysco Corporation
• Loraine Yalch, President, National Accounts Division, ARMADA Supply Chain Solutions
   

11:20 a.m.

What is Keeping Supply Chain Executives Up at Night?
This session addresses the pressing concerns and challenges facing today's foodservice supply chain leaders. We’ll cover a range of hot topics, from emerging issues and government regulations to the next significant challenges on the horizon. Hear from leading supply chain executives as they share insights and predictions on what lies ahead.

Moderator:    

• Joel Neikirk, Chief Executive Officer, Restaurant Services, Inc

Panelists:    

• James Butler, Senior Vice President & Chief Supply Chain Officer, Brinker International
• Anissa Mandell-Chance, President, ARCOP, Inc.
• Kirsten Michulka, President and Chief Executive Officer, Independent Purchasing Cooperative
   

12:00 p.m.

Lunch
 

1:00 p.m.

Roundtable Discussions
Our most popular session! Learn from industry peers, share your own experiences, and grow your network while discussing what’s most important to you. You’ll have the opportunity to interact with peers in a small group format and participate in two roundtable discussions each lasting 35 minutes. Table guides will ensure lively and interactive conversations, making sure everyone has a chance to share and take away actionable solutions.

Moderator:      

• Sara Burnett, Senior Director of Supply Chain, Tropical Smoothie Cafe

Table Topics:

• TABLE 1 - Optimizing Last-Mile Delivery: Strategies for Efficient Distribution in Foodservice
• TABLE 2 - Collaborative Distribution Models: Leveraging Partnerships for Improved Efficiency
• TABLE 3 - Foodservice Distribution Challenges in Urban Environments: Solutions and Strategies
• TABLE 4 - Temperature Monitoring and Management: Preventing Spoilage and Ensuring Freshness
• TABLE 5 - Leveraging Predictive Analytics for Demand Forecasting and Inventory Management
• TABLE 6 - The Role of Robotics and Automation in Foodservice Distribution Centers
• TABLE 7 - Integrating Foodservice Supply Chains with E-commerce Platforms Leveraging Amazon and Others for Distribution Support 
• TABLE 8 - Brainstorm: Trends Defining the Future of Foodservice Supply Chain
• TABLE 9 - Data Transparency Ideas and Successful Implementation 
• TABLE 10 - Scaling Up Local Sourcing Initiatives in Foodservice Supply Chains
• TABLE 11 - Strategies for Reducing Food Loss and Waste Throughout the Supply Chain
• TABLE 12 - Navigating Commodity Dynamics in the Supply Chain
• TABLE 13 - Successes and Challenges in Supplier Relationship Management
• TABLE 14 - Supply Chain Optimization -Cost Models and Pricing Transparency
• TABLE 15 - Procurement Innovation: Leveraging Technology to Streamline Processes
• TABLE 16 - Risk Mitigation in Procurement: Thought Starters to Insuring Supply Chain Resilience
• TABLE 17 - Empowering Quiet Voices: Effective Communication Strategies for Introverts in the Supply Chain
• TABLE 18 - Building Your Personal Brand: Networking Strategies for Supply Chain Professionals
• TABLE 19 - From Entry Level to Executive: Success Stories and Strategies in Foodservice Supply Chain Careers
• TABLE 20 - Supply Chain Expert Exchange Scholarship 
• TABLE 21 - Mentorship Matters: Cultivating Relationships for Career Growth in Foodservice Supply Chain
• TABLE 22 - Effective Recall Management: Strategies for Swift and Comprehensive Response
• TABLE 23 - Regulatory Compliance: Navigating the Complex Landscape of Food Safety Standards
• TABLE 24 - Crisis Preparedness and Response: Strategies for Handling Quality Incidents Effectively
• TABLE 25 - FSMA Beyond the Stage: Recordkeeping and Documentation Requirements Under FSMA
• TABLE 26 - Food Safety Culture: Fostering a Commitment to Excellence Across Your Organization 
   

2:30 p.m.

Networking Break
 

3:00 p.m.

Lessons from the Board Room: A Conversation with Don Fox
Partnership, influence, and relationships are a key success factor in the Supply Chain industry. Reflecting on a decades-long career in the QSR and Fast Casual Segments, this conversation with a seasoned Supply Chain leader will dive into experiences and lessons gathered throughout the years. You will hear Don share real life examples of how to be a preferred partner to your distributors, suppliers, franchisees, and your employees.

Moderator: Heidi York, Director of Foodservice Sales, Cargill

Speaker: Don Fox, former Chief Executive Officer, Firehouse Subs
 

4:00 p.m.

Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence
In this discussion our speakers will explore how emerging technologies and digital advancements are reshaping security and privacy landscapes. With a focus on practical implications for the foodservice supply chain, you’ll get insights on the complexities of data protection, mitigating cybersecurity threats, and leveraging AI for enhanced operational efficiency.

Speaker:

• James Baird, Vice President & Chief Information Security Officer, Go To Foods
• Josh Tackett, Chief Technology Officer, Buyer’s Edge Platform

4:40 p.m.

Closing Remarks

Speaker:

• Dessi Zaneva, Vice President of Strategic Sourcing, Jersey Mike's Franchise Systems, Inc.