Feb. 27 - Mar. 1, 2022

Enercare Centre, Toronto

BOOK A BOOTH
REGISTER - COMING SOON

2021 SPEAKERS

Featured Speakers & Firesides

JIM TRELIVING<br><span>Chairman & Owner, Boston Pizza International & Dragon, Dragon’s Den</span>

Jim Treliving

Chairman & Owner,
Boston Pizza International
& Dragon, Dragon’s Den

Jim Treliving

Chairman & Owner, Boston Pizza International and Dragon, Dragon’s Den

Chat with a Dragon: A one-on-one Discussion with Jim Treliving
Wednesday, March 3, 12:30PM-1:15PM EST
Speaker Stage

Jim Treliving is Chairman and Owner of Boston Pizza International Inc. (BPI). Jim sets the corporate strategy for Boston Pizza, Boston’s The Gourmet Pizza Restaurant and Sports Bar – Boston Pizza’s U.S. division – as well as Boston’s Mexico and several other businesses in which he has invested. Starting from a single restaurant franchise in 1968, Boston Pizza and Boston’s now has over 400 locations throughout North America and Jim’s holding company has additional operations throughout North America in the retail, manufacturing, real estate and service sectors with annual system-wide sales exceeding $1 billion.

In addition to his professional responsibilities, Jim is active in giving back to the community. He has been a director of the Boston Pizza Foundation since its inception in 1990 and has helped raise and donate over $30 million to Canadian charities over that time. Jim has also served on a number of volunteer boards including Chairman of the Hockey Canada Foundation, the David Foster Foundation, the Jays Care Foundation, and he is actively involved as an Advisor for the Centre For Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH). Currently, Jim stars as one of the five Dragons on CBC’s reality TV show, Dragon’s Den, where aspiring entrepreneurs secure a financial investment from the Dragons to start their own business. In 2012, Jim published “Decisions - Making the right ones and righting the wrong ones” a best-selling business book for aspiring entrepreneurs published by Harper-Collins.

View Bio & Schedule
Ritch Allison<br><span>CEO, Domino's Pizza</span>

Ritch Allison

CEO, Domino's Pizza

Ritch Allison

CEO, Domino's Pizza

Delivering During the Pandemic: Fireside Chat With Domino's CEO
Monday, March 1, 3:00PM-3:30PM EST
Speaker Stage

Ritch Allison is the Chief Executive Officer of Domino's Pizza, the world's largest pizza company in terms of retail sales. Domino's operates more than 17,000 stores in more than 90 markets around the world, including several hundred in Canada.

View Bio & Schedule
MASSIMO BOTTURA<br><span>Chef & Owner, Osteria Francescana</span>

Massimo Bottura

Chef & Owner, Osteria Francescana

Massimo Bottura

Chef & Owner, Osteria Francescana

Made-in-Italy & Zero Waste: A Message of Authenticity & Sustainability
Tuesday, March 3, 10:00AM-10:45AM
Culinary Stage

Massimo Bottura is one of the most awarded chef in the world and among the global TOP 100 most influential leaders. He is the chef Patron of Four Michelin star Osteria Francescana. Chef Bottura work for the protection of the environment and biodiversity through sustainable cooking practices and ingredient sourcing has been rewarded by Michelin with the new 2020 Michelin Green Star. The UN Environment Programme appointed Massimo as Goodwill Ambassador for his work against the global problem of food waste.

View Bio & Schedule
michael-smith

Michael Smith

Restaurateur, Innkeeper, Author, Food Network Host, Sustainability Advocate & Nutritional Activist

Michael Smith

Restaurateur, Innkeeper, Author, Food Network Host, Sustainability Advocate & Nutritional Activist

Finding Food, Fame & Fireworks: Fireside Chat with Chef Michael Smith
Monday, March 1, 4:00PM-4:45PM EST
Speaker Stage

Chef Michael Smith, one of Canada’s best-known chefs, is a passionate advocate for simple, sustainable home cooking and an inspiration for families creating their own healthy food lifestyle. He’s the host of numerous cooking shows seen on Food Network Canada and in more than 100 other countries.

Chef Michael and his wife Chastity are the proprietors of The Inn at Bay Fortune on Prince Edward Island. They’ve re-launched the property where Michael gained international fame in the 1990s with a new spirit of five-star hospitality and an innovative dining experience, the FireWorks. In 2019 they debuted The Inn at Fortune Bridge.

Michael is a member of the Order of Canada, Prince Edward Island’s food ambassador, a bestselling cookbook author, innkeeper, educator, professional chef and home cook. His ten cookbooks have all been best sellers and he regularly travels the globe hosting special culinary events.

Michael is an avid map collector, long-time windsurfer, and novice kite sailor. While he is a true chef at large his favourite role is Dad, at home on Prince Edward Island with his wife Chastity and his children: Gabe, Ariella and Camille!

View Bio & Schedule
CHRIS SHULTZ<br><span>CEO, Voodoo Doughnut</span>

Chris Shultz

CEO, Voodoo Doughnut

Chris Shultz

CEO, Voodoo Doughnut

Voodoo Doughnut: How the Iconic Brand Built a Cult Following
Sunday, Feb 28, 10:00AM-10:45AM EST
Speaker Stage

Chris Schultz, CEO of Voodoo Doughnut, brings more than three decades of restaurant industry experience with beloved brands built on a strong culture. While known for driving operational excellence, growth and innovation, Chris is most passionate about the people, and providing opportunities for them to develop and grow professionally. Prior to Voodoo Doughnut, Chris held senior level executive roles with MOD Pizza and Starbucks Coffee Company.

View Bio & Schedule
CARL HEINRICH<br><span>Co-Owner, Richmond Station</span>

Carl Heinrich

Co-Owner, Richmond Station

Carl Heinrich

Co-Owner, Richmond Station

Ones to watch: Online Live with Richmond Station
Sunday, February 28, 4:00PM-4:55PM EST
Speaker Stage

Carl Heinrich is the co-owner of Richmond Station in downtown Toronto, a bustling neighbourhood restaurant dedicated to delicious food and excellent hospitality. Carl is the 2015 Pinnacle Award winner for Canadian Chef of the Year and the winner of Top Chef Canada Season 2. He is an advocate for local food and regenerative agriculture.

View Bio & Schedule
kate-boushel

Kate Boushel

Director of Beverage & Education, Barroco Group

Kate Boushel

Director of Beverage & Education, Barroco Group

Ones to watch: ONLINE LIVE with Barroco Group
Tuesday, March 2, 4:00PM-4:45PM

Local Bar Check-In
Wednesday, March 3, 3:00PM-3:45PM

Speaker Stage

Kate’s passion for local flavours, spirits and cocktails, as well as her natural inclination towards the art of hospitality have guided her way through the world of bars and restaurants. For over a decade, she has worked with and learned from many industry leaders, and received numerous global and national accolades. In her role as Director of Beverage & Education for the Barroco Group, she strives to lead by example, help build a stronger and healthier community, and give back along the way.

View Bio & Schedule
janet-zuccarini

Janet Zuccarini

CEO, Gusto 54 Restaurant Group

Janet Zuccarini

CEO, Gusto 54 Restaurant Group

Are Canadians Ready to Come Back?: Data Insights on Canadian Consumers
Sunday, February 28, 11:00AM-11:45AM EST
Speaker Stage

Janet Zuccarini is the sole owner and visionary behind Gusto 54 Restaurant Group. Janet stands out as a woman and powerhouse entrepreneur in the restaurant industry, curating innovative and delicious dining experiences on a global scale. In 1996, she opened Trattoria Nervosa in Toronto’s Yorkville, later expanding to Gusto 101, and PAI Northern Thai Kitchen, Gusto 54 Catering & Commissary, Kiin, Chubby’s Jamaican Kitchen, Los Angeles-based restaurant Felix, Gusto 501 and Azhar Kitchen + Bar.

View Bio & Schedule

Breakfast With Champions Speakers

DANNY MEYER<br><span>Founder & CEO, Union Square Hospitality Group</span>

Danny Meyer

Founder & CEO, Union Square Hospitality Group

Danny Meyer

Founder & CEO, Union Square Hospitality Group

Breakfast With Champions
Tuesday, March 2, 8:30AM-10:30AM EST
Events Stage
(Ticketed Event)

Born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, Danny Meyer grew up in a family that relished great food and hospitality. Thanks to his father’s travel business, which designed custom European trips, Danny spent much of his childhood eating, visiting near and far-off places, and sowing the seeds for his future passion. In 1985, at the age of 27, Danny opened his first restaurant, Union Square Cafe, launching what would become a lifelong career in hospitality.

Thirty years later, Danny’s Union Square Hospitality Group (USHG) comprises some of New York’s most beloved and acclaimed restaurants, including Gramercy Tavern, The Modern, Maialino, and more. Danny and USHG founded Shake Shack, the modern-day “roadside” burger restaurant, which became a public company in 2015. USHG also offers large-scale event services, foodservice solutions for public and private institutions, industry consulting, and educational programming.

Danny has been generously recognized for his leadership, business achievements, and humanitarianism, including the 2017 Julia Child Award, the 2015 TIME 100 “Most Influential People” list, the 2012 Aspen Institute Preston Robert Tisch Award in Civic Leadership, the 2011 NYU Lewis Rudin Award for Exemplary Service to New York City, and the 2000 IFMA Gold Plate Award. Together, Danny and USHG’s restaurants and individuals have won an unprecedented 28 James Beard Awards, including Outstanding Restaurateur (2005) and Who’s Who of Food and Beverage in America (1996).

View Bio & Schedule
MAEVE WEBSTER<br><span>President, Menu Matters</span>

Maeve Webster

President, Menu Matters

Maeve Webster

President, Menu Matters

Breakfast With Champions
Tuesday, March 2, 8:30AM-10:30AM EST
Events Stage
(Ticketed Event)

Maeve Webster, President of Menu Matters, has been a leading consultant and thought leader in the foodservice industry for the past 21 years. Maeve understands that manufacturers and operators must innovate to defend their niche, but it can be hard to know what "trends" are distractions and which offer true ownable opportunities. Maeve created Menu Matters to do the research to help clients focus on the right way forward.

View Bio & Schedule
david-henkes

David Henkes

Senior Principal, Technomic

David Henkes

Senior Principal, Technomic

Breakfast With Champions
Tuesday, March 2, 8:30AM-10:30AM EST
Event Stage
(Ticketed Event)

David Henkes is a Senior Principal within Technomic’s Advisory Group and is responsible for directing strategic consulting and research assignments for clients active in the food, beverage, equipment and related industries. Dave has headed up the majority of Technomic’s global proprietary engagements and has conducted work throughout Europe, the Middle East, Asia and South America for clients in food, beverage and equipment/non-foods categories.

View Bio & Schedule
ryan-freeman

Ryan Freeman

Director of Enterprise Partnerships, DoorDash

Ryan Freeman

Director of Enterprise Partnerships, DoorDash

Breakfast With Champions
Tuesday, March 2, 8:30AM-10:30AM EST
Event Stage
(Ticketed Event)

Ryan Freeman is the Head of Enterprise Partnerships at DoorDash, focusing on the company's key restaurant and retail relationships in markets outside of the United States. Previously, Ryan held a range of roles at Yelp, Turnstyle, Accenture, and others. Based in Toronto, Ryan is passionate about all things food, travel and nature.

View Bio & Schedule
john-bunner

John Bunner

Operations Director, Alo Food Group

John Bunner

Operations Director, Alo Food Group

Breakfast With Champions
Tuesday, March 2, 8:30AM-10:30AM EST
Events Stage
(Ticketed Event)

John Bunner is Director of Operations for the Alo Food Group, which is based in Toronto. John got his start in the cocktail world and joined the Alo team as its opening Bar Manager. As a member of the Group's executive team, John has contributed to the development of several new concepts, while ensuring there's no trade-off between the Group's steady growth and its commitment to the highest standard of food and service.

View Bio & Schedule
david-bloom

David Bloom

President & Co-Owner, Sumac Restaurant

David Bloom

President & Co-Owner, Sumac Restaurant

Breakfast With Champions
Tuesday, March 2, 8:30AM-10:30AM EST
Events Stage
(Ticketed Event)

David Bloom is President and Co-owner of Sumac Restaurant Inc. David brings an extensive background in food service, coupled with an accomplished career as a college basketball coach. David is passionate about developing fast casual concepts with unique and honest offerings.

View Bio & Schedule
susan

Susan Krashinsky Robertson

Retail Industry Reporter, The Globe and Mail

Susan Krashinsky Robertson

Retail Industry Reporter, The Globe and Mail

Breakfast With Champions
Tuesday, March 2, 8:30AM-10:30AM EST
Events Stage
(Ticketed Event)

Susan Krashinsky Robertson is a business reporter with The Globe and Mail, covering the retail industry. Before joining The Globe in 2009, Susan worked as a freelance reporter contributing to the Ottawa Citizen, the Montreal Gazette and other publications, as well as CBC Radio. She has a Masters degree in journalism from Carleton University.

View Bio & Schedule

Speaker Stage

PATRICK KRISS<br><span>Chef & Owner, Alo Food Group</span>

Patrick Kriss

Chef & Owner, Alo Food Group

Patrick Kriss

Chef & Owner, Alo Food Group

Canada’s independent leaders talk the fate of the independent restaurant
Sunday, Feb 28, 12:00PM-1:15PM EST
Speaker Stage

Patrick is Chef/Owner of fine-dining restaurant Alo in Toronto. Since its opening in 2015, Alo has been counted among Canada's best restaurants. In subsequent years, his restaurant group added Aloette (2017), an internationally-flavoured bistro, Alobar Yorkville (2018), a new American concept, Salon (2019), a small space in Yorkville dedicated to private dining, and Alo Midsummer (2020), a patio pop-up to offer Alo's cuisine in a unique, outdoor setting.

View Bio & Schedule
SCOTT BOATWRIGHT<br><span>Chief Restaurant Officer, Chipotle</span>

Scott Boatwright

Chief Restaurant Officer, Chipotle

Scott Boatwright

Chief Restaurant Officer, Chipotle

CEO Panel: Fast Casual Restaurants
Tuesday, March 2, 11:00AM-12:00PM EST
Speaker Stage

Scott Boatwright is the Chief Restaurant Officer at Chipotle, responsible for overseeing operations for 2,700 company-owned restaurants with more than 94,000 employees. Joining the organization in May 2017, Mr. Boatwright drove the integration of new technology into restaurants, yielding impressive results and improvements across throughput and the overall guest experience. Prior to Chipotle, Mr. Boatwright spent 18 years with Arby’s Restaurant Group in various leadership positions.

View Bio & Schedule
MELISSA WILSON<br><span>Principal, Technomic Inc.</span>

Melissa Wilson

Principal, Technomic Inc.

Melissa Wilson

Principal, Technomic

Where do we go from here: COVID-19’s impact on foodservice & hospitality
Monday, March 1, 8:30AM-9:15AM EST
Speaker Stage

Melissa, a principal with Technomic’s advisory services, specializes in the operator practice arena and directs the firm’s off-premise practice. Leveraging her more than 25 years of consulting experience, Melissa primarily works with the senior leadership teams of chains, multi-unit operators and private equity firms on relevant consulting and research engagements.

View Bio & Schedule
DONNA DOOHER<br><span>Owner, Mildred's Temple Kitchen</span>

Donna Dooher

Owner, Mildred's Temple Kitchen

Donna Dooher

Owner, Mildred's Temple Kitchen

Canada’s independent leaders talk the fate of the independent restaurant
Sunday, February 28, 12:00PM-1:00PM EST
Speaker Stage

Donna Dooher, chef and partner of the Mildred Pierce Group, including Mildred's Temple Kitchen, The Cookworks and Mildred Pierce Restaurant, has served as the National Chair of Taste Canada, the Chair of The Board of Directors and CEO of Restaurants Canada, Co-chair of the YES CHEF! Fundraising Campaign at George Brown College and worked extensively with Brand Canada to promote Canadian hospitality around the globe. Donna approaches cooking, and life in general, with reckless abandon.

View Bio & Schedule
patrick-saurette

Patrick Saurette

Co-Owner, The Marc Restaurant Group Ltd.

Patrick Saurette

Co-Owner, The Marc Restaurant Group Ltd.

Canada’s independent leaders talk the fate of the independent restaurant
Sunday, February 28, 12:00PM-1:00PM EST
Speaker Stage

Running several 'go to' restaurants and founder of the Marc Restaurant Group Ltd.in Edmonton, Patrick Saurette brings several decades of experience developing and growing independent restaurants. As an advocate for the industry, he feels “restaurants feed the soul of our country.” This experience, passion and his leadership style have made him a sought-after industry expert nationally by industry and supplier partners.

View Bio & Schedule
OREN BOROVITCH<br><span>COO & Co-Founder, Kitchen Hub</span>

Oren Borovitch

COO & Co-Founder, Kitchen Hub

Oren Borovitch

COO & Co-Founder, Kitchen Hub

Maturing of the Ghost Kitchen Concept
Monday, March 2, 11:00AM-11:45AM EST
Speaker Stage

Oren Borovitch is Co-Founder and COO of Kitchen Hub, Canada's first Virtual Food Hall which provides turn-key kitchen space optimized for delivery and takeout. Prior to Kitchen Hub, Oren was an early employee at DoorDash Canada where he managed restaurant strategy and operations. Oren grew up in foodservice working for and managing his family's foodservice businesses. Oren is passionate about helping restaurant operators succeed in the digital economy.

View Bio & Schedule
andy-wiederhorn

Andy Wiederhorn

CEO & President, FAT Brands

Andy Wiederhorn

CEO & President, FAT Brands

Maturing of the ghost kitchen concept
Monday, March 2, 11:00AM-11:45AM EST
Speaker Stage

Andy Wiederhorn is President and Chief Executive Officer of FAT Brands. FAT Brands is a leading global franchising company that strategically acquires, markets and develops fast casual and casual dining restaurant concepts around the world. The Company currently owns nine restaurant brands: Fatburger, Johnny Rockets, Buffalo’s Cafe, Buffalo’s Express, Hurricane Grill & Wings, Elevation Burger, Yalla Mediterranean and Ponderosa and Bonanza Steakhouses, and has more than 700 units worldwide.

View Bio & Schedule
Chris Elliott (2)

Chris Elliott

Senior Economist, Restaurants Canada

Chris Elliott

Senior Economist, Restaurants Canada

Restaurants Canada's Industry Outlook
Sunday, February 28, 9:00AM-9:55AM EST
Speaker Stage

As the Senior Economist for Restaurants Canada, Chris Elliott manages and produces a comprehensive research program that has made Restaurants Canada a leading source of information for and about Canada’s $93-billion foodservice industry. Chris produces a number of member reports that analyze key industry trends and economic forecasts. Chris has worked with Restaurants Canada for 20 years, has a Bachelor of Arts and Master Degree in Economics and specializes in economic modeling and forecasting.

View Bio & Schedule
BRENDA O'REILLY<br><span>Co-Owner & President, YYT Foodservices</span>

Brenda O'Reilly

Co-Owner & President, YYT Foodservices

Brenda O'Reilly

Co-Owner & President, YYT Foodservices: YellowBelly Brewery & Public House, O'Reilly's Irish NL Pub, YellowBelly at YYT

Canada’s independent leaders talk the fate of the independent restaurant
Sunday, February 28, 12:00PM-1:00PM EST
Speaker Stage

Born and raised in Newfoundland, I boast over 30 years of experience in the restaurant industry. I am the CEO of my group of companies composed of O’Reilly’s Irish Newfoundland Pub, YellowBelly Brewery, YellowBelly at YYT, plus a massive tourism development project in the works. Currently, I am the Chair of Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador’s board of directors and have served on many other boards and committees including Chair of RC board 2009/2010.

View Bio & Schedule
BRENDA O'REILLY<br><span>Co-Owner & President, YYT Foodservices</span>

Jonathan Auger

President, Juiceworks Exhibits

Jonathan Auger

President, Juiceworks Exhibits

Designing & Renovating for the New Restaurant Footprint
Wednesday, March 3, 1:30PM-2:25PM EST
Speaker Stage

An industry veteran, Jon founded Juiceworks 25 years ago. His passion and entrepreneurial spirit quickly took root as he developed a reputation for excellent service, reliability and quality workmanship. Jon credits those same values as the key to his success today. Under his leadership, Juiceworks continues to thrive, growing at an exponential rate throughout North America. His dedication has resulted in award-winning solutions and long-lasting client relationships.

View Bio & Schedule
BRENDA O'REILLY<br><span>Co-Owner & President, YYT Foodservices</span>

Carl Segal

COO, REEF Technology

Carl Segal

COO, REEF Technology

Maturing of the ghost kitchen concept
Monday, March 1, 11:00AM-11:45AM
Speaker Stage

Carl Segal is the Chief Operating Officer of REEF Technology. He brings his passion for the industry to REEF as they create unprecedented opportunities for restaurants to launch and scale including REEF Neighborhood Kitchens. A veteran of the restaurant industry, Carl has worked with brands noted for their meteoric growth, like Roti Modern Mediterranean and Potbelly Sandwich Works. He is experienced with brand transformation, having developed new concepts for Lettuce Entertain You Enterprises.

View Bio & Schedule
roger-mooking-1

Roger Mooking

Chef & Host, Food Network & Cooking Channel

Roger Mooking

Chef & Host, Food Network & Cooking Channel

Inclusive Kitchen: Tackling Systemic Racism
Tuesday, March 2, 3:00PM-3:45PM EST
Speaker Stage

elebrated chef, restaurateur, television host, author and award-winning recording artist, Roger Mooking has earned an international reputation as a chef and lifestyle expert showcasing his globally inspired vision. Roger is a host on Food Network and Cooking Channel globally, and is currently in the 9th season of his live fire and barbecue show “Man Fire Food”. He is a 3rd generation restaurateur and currently the executive chef of "Twist by Roger Mooking" at Toronto Pearson Airport.

View Bio & Schedule
ASAD AMIN<br><span>Vice President, Ipsos</span>

Asad Amin

Vice President, Ipsos

Asad Amin

Vice President, Ipsos

Where do we go from here: COVID-19’s impact on foodservice & hospitality
Monday, March 1, 8:30AM-9:15AM EST
Speaker Stage

How to Bring Transparency & Consistency to Your Delivery Partnership
Monday, March 1, 2:00PM-2:45PM EST
Speaker Stage

Asad Amin is a Vice President with Ipsos and the resident Canadian consumption expert. He leads the syndicated Food and Beverage Group. Asad is a market research consultant with 20 years of supplier side research experience. His skillset ranges from set up, launch and management of large syndicated studies, brand health trackers and advertising copy tests.

View Bio & Schedule
nick-goddard

Nick Goddard

President, Portage Design Group Inc.

Nick Goddard

President, Portage Design Group Inc.

Designing & Renovating for the New Restaurant Footprint
Wednesday, March 3, 1:30PM-2:25PM EST
Speaker Stage

Nick is the founder and quarterback of Portage Design Group Inc a full service Interior Design firm he founded in 2010 after working in the design industry for over 10 years. Based in Toronto PDG has a diverse client base that includes restaurant chains, independents, retail store and commercial workplace design. Having taught Interior Design at Ryerson University and the Art Institute he is currently a guest speaker and critic at Ryerson.

View Bio & Schedule
vince-sgabellone

Vince Sgabellone

Foodservice Industry Analyst, The NPD Group

Vince Sgabellone

Foodservice Industry Analyst, The NPD Group

Where do we go from here: COVID-19’s impact on foodservice & hospitality
Monday, March 1, 8:30AM-9:15AM EST

Feeding the Recovery: Understanding Post-Pandemic Industry Shifts
Monday, March 1, 12:00PM-12:45PM EST

Reigniting your business: Big ideas, big data, big influence
Wednesday, March 2, 2:30PM-3:15PM EST

Speaker Stage

Vince has worked in many different roles across the food and foodservice industry. From sales to marketing, distribution to product development, from manufacturers to operators. All of this has served him well since entering the research industry with The NPD Group more than a decade ago. In his role Vince combines his analytic abilities and natural curiosity with his expertise in the industry. He helps his clients to understand the market, the competition, and the consumer.

View Bio & Schedule
joseph-shawana

Joseph Shawana

Chair of Indigenous Culinary of Associated Nations & Professor at Centennial College

Joseph Shawana

Chair of Indigenous Culinary of Associated Nations & Professor at Centennial College

Inclusive Kitchen: Tackling Systemic Racism
Tuesday, March 2, 3:00PM-3:45PM EST
Speaker Stage

Working in the Culinary field for over 20 years, Chef Joseph has been working hard at preserving his heritage through food. Working alongside great chefs and foragers, Chef Joseph has be revitalized to introduce Indigenous Food Systems to a wider audience.

View Bio & Schedule
david-hopkins

David Hopkins

President, The Fifteen Group

David Hopkins

President, The Fifteen Group

Menu Profit Models: Menu engineering for Maximum Return
February 28, 1:30PM-2:15PM EST
Speaker Stage

David is a 30+ year veteran of the hospitality industry. After working in both various operations and in a multi-unit financial analysis role, David started The Fifteen Group in 2001. Over 20 years, The Fifteen Group has grown to be one of the largest restaurant consulting firms in North America.

View Bio & Schedule
NIVERA WALLANI<br><span>President & General Manager, KFC Canada (Yum! Brands)</span>

Nivera Wallani

President & General Manager, KFC Canada (Yum! Brands)

Nivera Wallani

President & General Manager, KFC Canada (Yum! Brands)

CEO Panel: Quick Service Restaurants
Monday, March 1, 9:30AM-10:45AM EST
Speaker Stage

Nivera Wallani is the President and General Manager for KFC Canada at Yum! Brands. She is responsible for the strategy, performance and management of the Canadian Division. Nivera is a highly accomplished executive with extensive experience in change management, strategic planning, team building and stakeholder management. She is entrepreneurial at heart and is recognized for her impassioned approach and dynamic thought provoking leadership that inspires action.

View Bio & Schedule
LYN LITTLE<br><span>Partner, National Franchise Leader, BDO Canada LLP</span>

Lyn Little

Partner, National Franchise Leader, BDO Canada LLP

Lyn Little

Partner, National Franchise Leader, BDO Canada LLP

Exploring New Revenue Opportunities
Sunday, February 28, 3:00PM-3:45PM EST
Speaker Stage

Along with being a Partner and National Franchise Industry Leader at BDO, Lyn also is the treasurer and active member of the Canadian Franchise Association. Recognizing the importance of financial reporting to attract the right franchisees, lenders and investors, Lyn works with restaurant clients to ensure their financial statements accurately depict the finances of the company and helps management and shareholders make informed decisions.

View Bio & Schedule
ALAN BEKERMAN<br><span>CEO, iQ</span>

Alan Bekerman

CEO, iQ Food Co.

Alan Bekerman

CEO, iQ

CEO Panel: Fast Casual Restaurants
Tuesday, March 2, 11:00AM-12:15PM EST
Speaker Stage

Alan is Founder + CEO at iQ, Canada's leading healthy fast casual restaurant brand. With 9 locations in Toronto a newly launched DTC brand (iQ ESSENTIALS), iQ has established itself as one of the most progressive brands in Canada's healthy hospitality industry. Prior to founding iQ, Alan spent three years at HSBC Capital - a mid-market private equity firm. Alan graduated from McGill University with a Bachelor of Commerce.

View Bio & Schedule
jp-gervais

J.P. Gervais

VP & Chief Economist, Farm Credit Canada

J.P. Gervais

VP & Chief Economist, Farm Credit Canada

The Pandemic Effect: Economic Outlook on Issues Affecting You
Tuesday, March 2, 12:30PM-1:15PM EST
Speaker Stage

In addition to acting as a spokesperson on economic matters, J.P.'s insights on the agriculture and food industries help guide strategy and monitor risk at FCC. Prior to his current role, J.P. was a professor of agricultural economics at North Carolina State University and Laval University. He obtained his Ph.D. in economics from Iowa State University.

View Bio & Schedule
SUZANNE BARR<br><span>Chef, Social Advocate, Author, Suzanne Barr Food</span>

Suzanne Barr

Chef, Social Advocate, Author, Suzanne Barr Food

Suzanne Barr

Chef, Social Advocate, Author, Suzanne Barr Food

Inclusive Kitchen: Tackling Systemic Racism
Tuesday, March 2, 3:00PM-3:45PM EST
Speaker Stage

As one of North America’s most respected chefs with a signature flair for Afro Caribbean comfort food, Suzanne Barr's past culinary repertoire includes True True Diner, Saturday Dinette; the Gladstone Hotel; Sand and Pearl Oyster Bar; The Heat: A Kitchen (R)evolution; and the Food Network Canada’s series, Wall of Chefs. She regularly advocates for food security, people of colour, mental health, equal pay for equal work, LGBTQ communities, nutrition literacy and food source sustainability.

View Bio & Schedule
DAN GUNAM<br><span>Founder & CEO, Calii Love</span>

Dan Gunam

Founder & CEO, Calii Love

Dan Gunam

Founder & CEO, Calii Love

How to bring Transparency & Consistency to your Delivery Partnership
Monday, March 1, 2:00PM-2:45PM EST
Speaker Stage

Dan Gunam is the founder and developer of Toronto’s healthy fast-casual restaurant Calii Love, Calii Love Studio for mindful fitness and innovative event venue and nightlife destination Love Child Social House. Dan is a veteran in branding and hospitality with over 15 years of industry experience. Before founding Calii Love, opened Roosevelt Room, Storys Building and introduced international brands such as Nikki Beach, Bagatelle, In-N-Out Burger to Toronto as Pop-Ups.

View Bio & Schedule
robert-cifarelli

Robert Cifarelli

Director, Mobile Consumer Success, A&W Food Services of Canada Inc.

Robert Cifarelli

Director, Mobile Consumer Success, A&W Food Services of Canada Inc.

How to bring Transparency & Consistency to your Delivery Partnership
Monday, March 1, 2:00PM-2:45PM
Speaker Stage

Robert Cifarelli is responsible for the mobile transformation of A&W, helping A&W meet the changing needs of consumers who are seeking the convenience of delivery and ordering remotely. He joined A&W in 2012 and currently leads the growth of the A&W mobile order & pay app and third party delivery businesses

View Bio & Schedule
<b>Frank Hennessey</b><br>CEO, Recipe Unlimited<br>Corporation

Frank Hennessey

CEO, Recipe Unlimited Corporation

Frank Hennessey

CEO, Recipe Unlimited Corporation

CEO panel: Full Service Restaurants
Wednesday, March 3, 10:00AM-11:15AM EST
Speaker Stage

Frank Hennessey is Chief Executive Officer of Recipe Unlimited Corporation. Building on a 135+ year legacy, Frank is responsible for leading over 60,000 teammates and franchisees who work within Recipe's full suite of restaurant, delivery and catering businesses that stretch from Vancouver Island to St John's NFLD, including iconic brands like Swiss Chalet, Harvey’s, St-Hubert and The Keg.

View Bio & Schedule
mark-findlay

Mark Findlay

CEO, Lone Star Texas Grill

Mark Findlay

CEO, Lone Star Texas Grill

CEO Panel: Full Service Restaurants
Wednesday, March 3, 10:00AM-11:15AM EST
Speaker Stage

Currently CEO Lone Star Texas Grill - (past 3 years) a 22 unit independently owned, Ontario Based Tex-Mex Chain. Mark has spent the past 15+ years in progressive senior management roles leading some leading some of Canada's largest full service restaurant brands including Milestones, Montana's and Kelsey's for CARA Operations(now Recipe Unlimited) and FAB Restaurant Concepts based in Toronto.

View Bio & Schedule
philip-mondor

Philip Mondor

President & CEO, Tourism HR Canada

Philip Mondor

President and CEO, Tourism HR Canada

The Future Workforce: How to Recruit & Rebuild your Team Post-Pandemic
Monday, March 1, 1:00PM-1:45PM EST
Speaker Stage

Philip's work spans more than 30 years with labour market stakeholders across Canada and abroad. His work spans over 15 industrial sectors and in 11 countries, with most of his career focused on the tourism industry. Philip is an industry representative to the Deputy Minister’s Advisory Council, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. He is an advisory member of the Labour Market Info Council, the Future Skills Centre Research Advisory Board, and the Ted Rogers School of Hospitality.

View Bio & Schedule
andy-deonarine

Andy Deonarine

President & Director, CannSell

Andy Deonarine

President & Director, CannSell

Future High: Culinary & Cannabis
Wednesday, March 3, 9:00AM-9:45AM EST
Speaker Stage

20+ years in the hospitality industry over seeing multiple nightclubs, restaurants and festivals globally while leveraging CPG brands targeting adults in highly regulated environments.

His experience has allowed him to become a trusted voice for regulatory-driven industries wishing to implement best-in-class communication practices that has led into the acquisition of CannSell, the sole mandated cannabis retail training program as per the AGCO and developed in partnership with MADD.

View Bio & Schedule
robert-phelps

Robert Phelps

President, SilverChef Canada

Robert Phelps

President, SilverChef Canada

Designing & Renovating for the New Restaurant Footprint
Wednesday, March 3, 1:30PM-2:15PM EST
Speaker Stage

President of SilverChef Canada, Robert is responsible for growing SilverChef's Canadian business, offering flexible equipment finance to the hospitality sector. Rob has a strong track record in executive leadership, where he has delivered superior customer service and mutually rewarding relationships with partners and clients over more than 20 years in financial services.

View Bio & Schedule
tami-coughlan

Tami Coughlan

Head of Sales and Partnerships, Pelmorex Corp.

Tami Coughlan

Head of Sales and Partnerships, Pelmorex Corp.

Reigniting your Business: Big Ideas, Big Data, Big Influence
Wednesday, March 3, 2:30PM-3:15PM
Speaker Stage

Tami Coughlan is as passionate about marketing as she is about food. With 20 yrs of experience working on product, content, traditional and digital advertising, she has worked with clients across industries and seen the evolution of media first hand. As Head of Sales & Partnerships at Pelmorex Corp. her teams harness the power of data, technology and creativity to build smart, innovative solutions that deliver results.

View Bio & Schedule
damon-horn

Damon Horn

Research Analyst, Technomic

Damon Horn

Research Analyst, Technomic

Menu Profit Models: Menu engineering for Maximum Return
Sunday, February 28, 1:30PM-2:15PM EST
Speaker Stage

Damon is a research analyst with Technomic focusing on the intersection of economics and foodservice, as well as menu planning. His presentation will focus on the impact of COVID-19 on limited-time offers in Canada and the trends that will define the post-pandemic era.

View Bio & Schedule
jenn-juby

Jenn Juby

Vice President, Retail, Hemisphere Cannabis Co.

Jenn Juby

Vice President, Retail, Hemisphere Cannabis Co.

Future High: Culinary & Cannabis
Wednesday, March 3, 9:00AM-9:45AM EST
Speaker Stage

Jenn entered the cannabis industry almost 3 years ago, leading retail cannabis operations in Ontario, Manitoba, and Alberta. Jenn has led brand creation, development, operations, and marketing for retail product and storefronts, and has led cannabis production, sales, and distribution. Prior to joining the cannabis industry, Jenn held senior leadership roles at multiple full service and QSR brands across North America such as Starbucks, Freshii, and Service Inspired Restaurants (SIR Corp).

View Bio & Schedule
adam-morrison

Adam Morrison

President & CEO, Ontario Tourism Education Corporation

Adam Morrison

President & CEO, Ontario Tourism Education Corporation

The Future Workforce: How to Recruit & Rebuild your Team Post-Pandemic
Monday, March 1, 1:00PM-1:45PM
Speaker Stage

As OTEC’s President and CEO, Adam leads OTEC’s workforce development consulting services, working with industry, government, educators, and communities to ensure businesses and destinations are prepared for the changing market. He joined the organization with Canadian and international experience in corporate training, organizational research, and HR/human capital consulting. He holds a Masters of Science degree in Capacity Development Studies with a specialization in soft systems methodologies.

View Bio & Schedule
lauren-van-den-berg

Lauren van den Berg

Executive Vice President, Government Relations, Restaurants Canada

Lauren van den Berg

Executive Vice President, Government Relations, Restaurants Canada

Restaurants Canada's Industry Outlook
Sunday, February 28, 9:00AM-9:45AM
Speaker Stage

Lauren has an excellent track record of successful public affairs leadership across the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors, and brings a wealth of experience in government relations, public affairs and strategic communications. She currently serves as Vice-Chair of the VentureKids Board of Directors. Lauren holds an Executive MBA Certificate from McGill University, a Masters degree in Public Policy and Administration from Carleton University, and a Bachelor (Hons.) from McGill.

View Bio & Schedule
josh-prigge

Josh Prigge

Founder, Sustridge

Damon Horn

Founder, Sustridge

Sustainable Solutions to Boost your Bottom Line
Wednesday, March 3, 11:30AM-12:15PM
Speaker Stage

Josh Prigge is a sustainability consultant and public speaker with over a decade of experience managing sustainability programs and initiatives for large organizations. Prigge is the founder and CEO of Sustridge, a sustainability consulting firm that has worked with companies of all sizes across numerous industries. Josh also produces and hosts the popular podcast, Sustainable Nation, interviewing global leaders in sustainability every month.

View Bio & Schedule
glenda-ann-robertson

Glenda Ann Robertson

Co-Founder, Kitchens 4 Missions

Glenda Ann Robertson

Co-Founder, Kitchens 4 Missions

Mental health: Increasing Awareness & Supporting Tools
Tuesday, March 2, 2:00PM-2:45PM EST
Speaker Stage

Glenda Ann has over 30+ years in hospitality. She is a Montreal native, who is now living in St. John's, Newfoundland & Labrador. She is a suicide survivor and Kitchens 4 Missions Co-Founder. She holds certification from the World Health Organization in "Engaging communities in suicide prevention", "No Stigmas Ally" certification adn "LivingWorks Start" certification and is trained to administer Naloxone.

View Bio & Schedule
andrew-harkness

Andrew Harkness

Strategy Advisor, Organizational Health Initiatives, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services

Andrew Harkness

Strategy Advisor, Organizational Health Initiatives, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services

Mental health: Increasing Awareness & Supporting Tools
Tuesday, March 2, 2:00PM-2:45PM EST
Speaker Stage

Andrew Harkness leads WSPS’s organizational health and workplace mental health initiatives. He is a member of the committee that developed the National Standard for Psychological Health and Safety in the Workplace. With more than 30 years of experience in occupational health, safety and wellness, Andrew has been a thought leader and has collaborated with leaders in the field such as the Mental Health Commission of Canada, Canadian Mental Health Association and Guarding Minds @ Work.

View Bio & Schedule
alan-howie

Alan Howie

President & COO, Northland Restaurant Group

Alan Howie

President & COO, Northland Restaurant Group

CEO Panel: Full Service Restaurants
Wednesday, March 3, 10:00AM-11:15AM EST
Speaker Stage

Alan Howie is the President and Chief Operating Officer of the Northland Restaurant Group “NRG”. NRG operates more than 160 restaurant and with brands such as Moxie’s, Chop Steakhouse and Bar and Shark Club in Canada and the US. They also operate over 60 Denny's restaurants in Canada. Alan has worked in the restaurant industry for over 25 years with several other concepts. He is a graduate of the University of British Columbia and is a CPA,CA.

View Bio & Schedule
sylvain-charlebois

Dr. Sylvain Charlebois

Senior Director, Agri-Food Analytics Lab, Dalhousie University

Dr. Sylvain Charlebois

Senior Director, Agri-Food Analytics Lab, Dalhousie University

Feeding the Recovery: Understanding Post-Pandemic Industry Shifts
Monday, March 1, 12:00PM-12:45PM EST
Speaker Stage

Dr. Sylvain Charlebois is a Professor in food distribution and policy in the Faculties of Management and Agriculture at Dalhousie University in Halifax. He is also the Senior Director of the Agri-food Analytics Lab, also located at Dalhousie University. Before joining Dalhousie, he was affiliated with the University of Guelph’s Arrell Food Institute, which he co-founded. Known as “The Food Professor”, his current research interest lies in the broad area of food distribution, security and safety.

View Bio & Schedule
lucky-thalos

Lucky Thalas

Executive Vice-President, Silverware POS Inc.

Lucky Thalas

Executive Vice-President, Silverware POS Inc.

Reigniting your Business: Big Ideas, Big Data, Big Influence
Wednesday, March 3, 2:30PM-3:15PM EST
Speaker Stage

Lucky Thalas is the Executive VP @ Silverware, a leading provider of technology solutions to hotels and restaurants across the globe. Lucky boasts 25 years of experience in the hospitality technology sector. He spent 10 years in Chicago heading the company’s business development effort in the U.S., and today is driving sales, and expanding the company’s global reach from Silverware’s Toronto area headquarters. Lucky is passionate about people and fanatical about thrilling customers.

View Bio & Schedule
rob-edwards

Rob Edwards

Business Advisor, Private Sector, IESO

Rob Edwards

Business Advisor, Private Sector, IESO

Sustainable Solutions to Boost your Bottom Line
Wednesday, March 3, 11:30AM-12:15PM EST
Speaker Stage

Rob has been helping business owners save energy since 2009. He will inform attendees about actions they can take and government funding that is available to help them save money on their monthly bill and make their restaurant more profitable. Join to learn how you can get $2,000 of free LED lighting and the majority of the costs covered for your kitchen ventilation.

View Bio & Schedule
richard-cazeau

Richard Cazeau

Television Broadcaster & Content Producer, Richardcazeau.com

Richard Cazeau

Television Broadcaster & Content Producer, Richardcazeau.com

Speaker Stage Host
February 28 - March 3

With a personality that's fiercely passionate about lifestyle products for Men, Cazeau is an accomplished Content Writer, Producer, and Host of award-winning Alternative and Digital Programming. He's compiled extensive production credits on networks owned by NBC, AMC, FOX, DISCOVERY, and YAHOO. And as of late, he produces Sponsored Content for partners like AMEX, LG, SAMSUNG,
DYSON, FITBIT, PHILIPS, and WALMART— just to name a few.

View Bio & Schedule
leslie-echino

Leslie Echino

Owner, Annabelle's Kitchen & Bar

Leslie Echino

Owner, Annabelle's Kitchen & Bar

Designing & Renovating for the New Restaurant Footprint
Wednesday, March 3, 1:30PM-2:25PM EST
Speaker Stage

Victor is a born and bred Ontario chef. His work ethic, passed down from his father, has driven him to his position as one of Toronto’s premier chefs. He has honed his culinary skills around the world and has made an indelible mark on Toronto’s restaurant landscape.

View Bio & Schedule
alexandra-gill

Alexandra Gill

BC Restaurant Critic, The Globe and Mail

Alexandra Gill

BC Restaurant Critic, The Globe and Mail

CEO Panel: Fast Casual Restaurants
Tuesday, March 2, 11:00AM-12:15PM EST
Speaker Stage

Alexandra Gill has been the West Coast restaurant critic for The Globe and Mail since 2005 and a journalist for 24 years. She is also the editor of Canada’s Best Bars and a judge for many major competitions including Food Network Canada’s Iron Chef Canada, The Chinese Restaurant Awards and Canada’s 100 Best Restaurants. She recently launched a food tour company called Dine Like A Critic.

View Bio & Schedule
darren-cheverie

Darren Cheverie

Owner, Chartier & Board Member, In the Weeds

Darren Cheverie

Owner, Chartier & Board Member, In the Weeds

Mental health: Increasing Awareness & Supporting Tools
Tuesday, March 2, 2:00PM-2:45PM EST
Speaker Stage

In 2016, Darren and his wife Sylvia opened a French-Canadian restaurant called Chartier in their hometown of Beaumont, Alberta. After being in hospitality for 20 years and working every day in a restaurant, he has seen a lot change in the world around our industry but not within it and we have fallen behind. He is a recovering alcoholic and drug addict who functioned at the highest levels in our industry. Co-Founder of In The Weeds.

View Bio & Schedule
shoel-davidson

Shoel Davidson

Founder & President, Mind The Bar Foundation

Shoel Davidson

Founder & President, Mind The Bar Foundation

Mental health: Increasing Awareness & Supporting Tools
Tuesday, March 2, 2:00PM-2:45PM
Speaker Stage

With 20 years of experience in the food service and bar industry, Shoel is a co-owner/operator of Gringo Restaurant in Vancouver, and founder of Mind The Bar Foundation. A mental health initiative established in 2018 which provides information, resources, and support for depression, anxiety, suicide, substance abuse/misuse, and workplace harassment within the hospitality industry.

View Bio & Schedule
toben-kochman

Toben Kochman

Chief Culinary Consultant & Owner, Toben Food by Design Inc.

Toben Kochman

Chief Culinary Consultant & Owner, Toben Food by Design Inc.

Exploring New Revenue Opportunities
Sunday, February 28, 3:00PM-3:45PM EST
Speaker Stage

Classic French trained executive chef of 20+ years. I am the chef and owner of Toben Food by Design Inc., one of Toronto's premier catering and events companies.

View Bio & Schedule
todd-barclay

Todd Barclay

President & CEO, Restaurants Canada

Todd Barclay

President & CEO, Restaurants Canada

Restaurants Canada's Industry Outlook
Sunday, February 28, 9:00AM-9:45AM
CEO Panel: Quick Service Restaurants
Monday, March 1, 9:30AM-10:45AM
Delivering During the Pandemic: Fireside Chat With Domino's CEO
Monday, March 1, 3:00PM-3:30PM
Breakfast With Champions
Tuesday, March 2, 8:30AM-10:30AM
CEO panel: Full Service Restaurants
Wednesday, March 3, 10:00AM-11:15AM

Todd Barclay is the President and CEO of Restaurants Canada. He is responsible for leading the day to day operations of an association with over 75 years of history advocating for 30,000+ members in the foodservice industry from coast to coast. Todd has over 20 years of senior North American leadership experience in the food, foodservice, manufacturing and technology industries.

View Bio & Schedule
nicole-wharry

Nicole Wharry

Sales Manager, Uber Eats

Nicole Wharry

Sales Manager, Uber Eats

How to bring Transparency & Consistency to your Delivery Partnership
Monday, March 1, 2:00PM-2:45PM EST
Speaker Stage

Over the past 4 years, Nicole has worked at Uber Eats growing restaurant partnerships across Canada, United Kingdom, and Ireland. Currently, she leads a team of account executives who grow Uber Eats partnerships across Canada.

View Bio & Schedule
hassel-aviles

Hassel Aviles

Executive Director, Not 9 to 5 Organization

Hassel Aviles

Executive Director, Not 9 to 5 Organization

Mental health: Increasing Awareness & Supporting Tools
Tuesday, March 2, 2:00PM-2:45PM
Speaker Stage

Progress in a Recession
Tuesday, March 2, 1:00PM-1:45PM
Bar & Beverage Stage

With over 20 years experience in the food and beverage industry, Hassel Aviles has built a career in hospitality and events. Hassel grew up working in restaurants and foodservice which led to entrepreneurship and launching many successful culinary brands. These days, her passion for the industry is seen with her work as Executive Director of Not 9 to 5 and Principal Consultant at Reunion Inc., an Ovare Group-owned business transformation consultancy.

View Bio & Schedule
loris-wilson

Lori Wilson

Manager, People & Change, BDO Consulting, BDO Canada LLP

Lori Wilson

Manager, People & Change, BDO Consulting, BDO Canada LLP

The Future Workforce: How to Recruit & Rebuild your Team Post-Pandemic
Monday, March 1, 1:00PM-1:45PM EST
Speaker Stage

Lori’s diverse experience in a variety of sectors includes, working closely with leadership and staff at all levels. Lori has taken part in a range of HR programs and projects including policy development, recruitment and retention, employee development, performance management and compensation reviews. Lori works closely with business owners to understand their unique challenges and ensure HR practices align with the overall business strategy.

View Bio & Schedule
eden-hagos

Eden Hagos

Founder, Black Foodie

Eden Hagos

Founder, Black Foodie

Inclusive Kitchen: Tackling Systemic Racism
Tuesday, March 2, 3:00PM-3:45PM
Speaker Stage

Eden Hagos is a celebrated host, food writer, and founder of BLACK FOODIE, a media platform and creative agency. An Ethiopian-Canadian with a passion for exploring the African diaspora, she's focused on changing the global conversation around Black food culture.

View Bio & Schedule
duncan-fulton

Duncan Fulton

Chief Corporate Officer, Restaurant Brands International

Duncan Fulton

Chief Corporate Officer, Restaurant Brands International

CEO Panel: Quick Service Restaurants
Monday, March 1, 9:30AM-10:45AM EST
Speaker Stage

Duncan Fulton has been Chief Corporate Officer at Restaurant Brands International since 2018. This includes leadership for the company’s communications and government relations strategies as well as franchisee engagement, investor relations, sustainability, employee engagement and diversity and inclusion. RBI is one of the world’s largest restaurant companies with ~27,000 locations in ~100 countries under the brands of Burger King, Tim Hortons and Popeyes.

View Bio & Schedule
bruce-miller

Bruce Miller

President, The WORKS Craft Burgers & Beer, South St Burger, Big Smoke Burger & Tosto Quickfire Pizza & Pasta

Bruce Miller

President, The WORKS Craft Burgers & Beer, South St Burger, Big Smoke Burger & Tosto Quickfire Pizza & Pasta

CEO Panel: Fast Casual Restaurants
Tuesday, March 2, 11:00AM-12:15PM
Speaker Stage

As CEO Bruce grew The WORKS Craft Burgers & Beer to over 25 locations and then sold to MTY Group 2 years ago. He now leads The WORKS, Big Smoke Burger and South St Burger, adding 10 new locations in Canada and the Middle East this year. He has taught courses & published on Foodservice issues at both McMaster and Brock Universities. He's worked with all levels of government and many media outlets over the past two years, constantly trying to improve support levels and programs for the restaurant industry.

View Bio & Schedule
jody-palubiski

Jody Palubiski

CEO, Charcoal Group of Restaurants

Jody Palubiski

CEO, Charcoal Group of Restaurants

The Future Workforce: How to Recruit & Rebuild your Team Post-Pandemic
Monday, March 1, 1:00PM-1:45PM EST
Speaker Stage

Jody is a partner/founder and the CEO of the Charcoal Group of Restaurants

View Bio & Schedule
shauna-houlton

Shauna Houlton

Director, Consumer Insights, ‎Corus Entertainment

Shauna Houlton

Director, Consumer Insights, ‎Corus Entertainment

Are Canadians Ready to Come Back?: Data Insights on Canadian Consumers
Sunday, February 28, 11:00AM-11:45AM EST
Speaker Stage

Shauna has spent the past 20 years turning insights into targeted strategies that address business challenges across a variety of sectors including; not-for-profit, public, media & technology, consumer packaged goods and financial services. As Consumer Insights Director, Shauna is responsible for leading Corus’s Insights practice to ensure Corus’s Television and Radio properties and advertisers are connecting with audiences in a meaningful way.

View Bio & Schedule
chad-finkelstein

Chad Finkelstein

Partner, Dale & Lessmann LLP

Chad Finkelstein

Partner, Dale & Lessmann LLP

Future High: Culinary & Cannabis
Wednesday, March 3, 9:00AM-9:45AM EST
Speaker Stage

Chad Finkelstein is a partner at Dale & Lessmann LLP, as well as the founder and co-chair of the firm’s franchise practice group, and founder and chair of the firm’s cannabis practice group. He is a transactional lawyer and a registered trademark agent, and practices in the areas of corporate law, M&A, franchise law, licensing, distribution, intellectual property law, cannabis law, information technology law, advertising/marketing law, and contest and gaming law.

View Bio & Schedule
sean-kavanagh

Sean Kavanagh

Board Director, LEAF

Sean Kavanagh

Board Director, LEAF

Sustainable Solutions to Boost your Bottom Line
Wednesday, March 3, 11:30AM-12:15PM EST
Speaker Stage

Sean joined LEAF's board of directors in 2020 as the organization's Chair of Funding & Sponsorship. Sean graduated from McGill University with a Bachelor of Commerce and has +6 years of operations experience, primarily in the food & beverage industry (La Popessa, FF Pizza, BeaverTails).

View Bio & Schedule

Bar & Beverage Stage

FRED LANDTMETERS<br><span>President, Molson Coors Canada</span>

Fred Landtmeters

President, Molson Coors Canada

Fred Landtmeters

President, Molson Coors Canada

Beer CEO Panel: Business Building Beer Insights
Monday, March 1, 11:00AM-11:45AM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

Fred has an international consumer packaged goods career spanning 20+ years and is a proven commercial leader with a passion for building great (beer) brands. He started his career at Procter & Gamble and held various marketing roles at Cadbury Schweppes and AB InBev before he was appointed Chief Marketing Officer at StarBev in 2010. That was also the year when he first moved out of Belgium, his home country, to the Czech Republic.

In 2012, Molson Coors acquired StarBev and after 2 years in the role of Chief Commercial Officer, Europe, Fred took on his first country leadership role as Managing Director of Molson Coors UK & Ireland. More recently, in 2016, he became Chief Executive Officer of Molson Canada, which he proudly refers to as
North America’s oldest brewery.

Fred is married to Veronique, and they have two teenage sons. He is a keen follower of sport – now also including hockey! – and he and his family love spending their free time discovering new places in Canada.

View Bio & Schedule
kyle-norrington

Kyle Norrington

President, Labatt Breweries of Canada

Kyle Norrington

President, Labatt Breweries of Canada

Beer CEO Panel: Business Building Beer Insights
Monday, March 1, 11:00AM-11:45AM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

Kyle Norrington is President of Labatt Breweries of Canada, the Canadian division of the world’s leading brewer, Anheuser-Busch InBev. Over the last 20 years, Kyle has leveraged his broad experience with Labatt and AB InBev to continuously deliver successful results, innovative strategies and disruptive ideas. With a deep background in sales and marketing, he is relentlessly focused on anticipating consumer and societal trends while fostering a culture of constant innovation.

View Bio & Schedule
gregory-smith

Gregory Smith

Certified Sommelier & Commercial Director, Abever

Gregory Smith

Certified Sommelier & Commercial Director, Abever

Pisco Paradise: Crafting Pisco Riffs & the Classic Sour from Peru
Tuesday, March 2, 2:00PM-2:45PM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

Gregory Smith graduated from the University of Nebraska with a degree in foreign language, but his professional trajectory took him in a different direction. Having shown an affinity for international travel and restaurant management, he found his calling in the world of wine and spirits shortly after entering the restaurant business at the age of seventeen

A Certified Sommelier by the Court of Master Sommeliers, Smith is currently Commercial Director at Abever, a company based in Lima, Peru specializing in the importation and sale of fine European wines. Smith previously was wine director at Central Restaurant for seven years where his wine program was consistently ranked the best in Peru and among the best in Latin America. During his tenure at Central, he also oversaw the bar program. Smith is an educator of Peru’s new generation of sommeliers and currently teaches at Le Cordon Bleu (Peru), La Escuela Peruana de Sommeliers (The Peruvian Sommelier School), and previously at the Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola’s Center for Global Education. Smith is also an independent wine consultant and writer and currently resides in Lima, Peru. His website and blog are located at https://gregorysmith.wine/

View Bio & Schedule
DONNA CRECCA<br><span>Principal, Technomic</span>

Donna Crecca

Principal, Technomic

Donna Crecca

Principal, Technomic

State of the Bar
Monday, March 1, 10:00AM-10:45AM
Bar & Beverage Stage

Donna Hood Crecca is Principal at Technomic, where she leads the firm’s Convenience Store Practice and Adult Beverage Practice, and is founder of its Cannabis Practice. Donna develops research-based insights and recommendations for supplier and operator companies to enhance go-to-market and product development initiatives. She is a veteran of the foodservice and drinks industries, having covered the restaurant, convenience store, beverage and alcohol markets for more than two decades.

View Bio & Schedule
jay-wright

Jay Wright

President & CEO, Arterra Wines Canada

Jay Wright

President & CEO, Arterra Wines Canada

Wine CEO Panel: Pouring to Profitability
Wednesday, March 3, 10:00AM-10:45AM
Bar & Beverage Stage

Jay Wright is the President of Arterra Wines Canada. In 2001, Jay became the president of Vincor International Inc. and became its CEO in 2006. From 2009 and onwards, he held various executive roles at Constellation Brands Inc. such as COO and EVP & president of Global Wine & Spirits leading the business on a premiumization growth strategy. In 2016, Jay became president of Arterra Wines Canada, known formerly as Constellation Brands Canada.

View Bio & Schedule
scott-walton

Scott Walton

President, Mark Anthony Wine & Spirits

Scott Walton

President, Mark Anthony Wine & Spirits

Wine CEO Panel: Pouring to Profitability
Wednesday, March 3, 10:00AM-10:45AM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

Scott Walton, joined the Mark Anthony Group in 2006 in Vancouver, British Columbia as a Category Manager. After holding a number of progressive commercial roles in British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario, Scott was appointed President of Mark Anthony Wine & Spirits in 2017. During his 15 year career at Mark Anthony, Scott has worked coast to coast and is known for an ambitious growth agenda, consistently delivering results and his unwavering commitment to building strong teams.

View Bio & Schedule
martin-hudak

Martin Hudak

Co-Founder & Owner, Maybe Sammy

Martin Hudak

Co-Founder & Owner, Maybe Sammy

Global Bar Check-In
Sunday, February 28, 11:00AM-12:15PM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

  • World Coffee in Good Spirit Champion 2017
  • Int. Bartender of the year 2019
  • Co-Owner Maybe Sammy – Best New International Cocktail Bar 2019
  • 11th World’s Best Bar 2020
View Bio & Schedule
bannie-kang

Bannie Kang

Co-Owner of Mu Taipei, 2020 Diageo World Class Winner & Bartender of the Year 2020

Bannie Kang

Co-Owner of Mu Taipei, 2020 Diageo World Class Winner & Bartender of the Year 2020

Global Bar Check-In
Sunday, February 28, 11:00AM-12:15PM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

After winning world class 2019, Bonnie is a strong believer of gender equality and also wants to share more about Asian ingredients to the world.

View Bio & Schedule
shawn-soole

Shawn Soole

Owner & Principal, Soole Hospitality Concepts

Shawn Soole

Owner & Principal, Soole Hospitality Concepts

Diversify Your Revenue Stream
Monday, March 1, 2:00PM-2:45PM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

Shawn Soole has been a hospitality industry professional for over two decades, from bartender to hospitality entrepreneur. While he is back at Clive's Classic Lounge running the bar program there, he also runs 5 companies involved in everything from branding and logo design to designing and building to online marketing and craft spirit distribution. His strength is always seeing the deficiencies in the industry and filling the space with a hospitality centric mentality.

View Bio & Schedule
sly-augustin

Sly Augustin

Owner, Trailer Happiness

Sly Augustin

Owner, Trailer Happiness

Global Bar Check-In
Sunday, February 28, 11:00AM-12:15PM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

Sly Augustin is the owner of London's world renowned rum bar and cocktail lounge, Trailer Happiness.

View Bio & Schedule
paul-cirka

Paul Cirka

Founder & President, Cirka Distilleries

Paul Cirka

Founder & President, Cirka Distilleries

Spirits CEO Panel: Alcohol Innovation to Keep Spirits Up
Tuesday, March 2, 10:00AM-10:45AM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

Moving from a career in high-tech to realizing a dream of creating world renown whiskies, Paul founded Cirka Distilleries, a Montreal based micro-distillery located along the historic Lachine canal. Cirka Distilleries is the first grain-to-bottle distillery in Quebec producing vodka, gin and whisky from local grains expressing Quebec's diverse terroir.

View Bio & Schedule
melanie-martel

Melanie Martel

Product Marketing Manager, Lightspeed

Melanie Martel

Product Marketing Manager, Lightspeed

The New Satellite Bar: Strategizing your Off-Premise Sales
Monday, March 1, 1:00PM-1:45PM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

Melanie is a Product Marketing Manager at Lightspeed with over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Currently, in her role, she is responsible for everything from the positioning strategy to the go-to-market effectiveness of Lightspeed's hospitality products. With a passionate, self-motivated, and 'can do' attitude, Melanie is a believer who thinks out-of-the-box and always delivers more than what was promised.

Her results-oriented outlook and customer obsession combined with a deep interest in the future of the hospitality industry (especially in the context of this pivotal time with changing consumer needs and trends) gives her a unique perspective in the current market that she is happy to bring to the decision-making table.

View Bio & Schedule
gord-hannah

Gord Hannah

Head Bartender, Drake Properties

Gord Hannah

Head Bartender, Drake Properties

Local Bar Check-In
Tuesday, March 2, 3:00PM-3:45PM EST
Wednesday, March 3, 3:00PM-3:45PM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

Gord Hannah is the head bartender of the Drake Hotel, one of the founding members of The Toronto Cocktail Conference and a producer for the Toplack Sessions.

View Bio & Schedule
michelle-tham

Michelle Tham

Head of Education, Labatt Breweries of Canada

Michelle Tham

Head of Education, Labatt Breweries of Canada

Rediscover Your Guest: The 2021 Consumer
Tuesday, March 2, 12:00PM-12:45PM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

Michelle is the Head of Education at Labatt Breweries of Canada. She is responsible for leading a culture of beer education and appreciation through the brewery’s people and diverse portfolio of brands. A Certified Cicerone®, MBAA Beer Steward, and Recognized BJCP Beer Judge; Michelle's expertise on beer and food pairing has been featured on Global News, CTV Morning Live, 680 News, the Globe & Mail, and Fashion Magazine.

View Bio & Schedule
casey-ferrell

Casey Ferrell

Vice President, Head of U.S. MONITOR & Canada MONITOR, Kantar Consulting

Casey Ferrell

Vice President, Head of U.S. MONITOR & Canada MONITOR, Kantar Consulting

Rediscover Your Guest: The 2021 Consumer
Tuesday, March 2, 12:00PM-12:45PM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

Vice President, Head of U.S. MONITOR & Canada MONITOR, Kantar Consulting
Bio: Casey directs content development, thought leadership and product innovation for U.S. MONITOR and Canada MONITOR. Casey tells compelling, credible stories in a variety of creatively intelligent formats—from presentations and webinars to microsites and infographics—that help our clients better understand and anticipate changes in the U.S. and Canadian consumer marketplaces. His areas of expertise include generations, culture & diversity, and consumer insights, lifestyles and trends.

View Bio & Schedule
oliver-guillard

Olivier Guillard

National Category Manager, On-Premise, Labatt Breweries of Canada

Olivier Guillard

National Category Manager, On-Premise, Labatt Breweries of Canada

The Future of Format In Beer & Beyond
Sunday, February 28, 3:00PM-3:45PM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

As National Category Manager, On-Premise at Labatt Breweries of Canada, Olivier works with both internal and external partners to deliver thought leadership and meaningful insights to grow the channel and bring consumers into bars and restaurants across Canada. Olivier has progressed through roles in field sales, business intelligence, sales operations and category management; providing him with a strong understanding of the industry in order to provide strategic guidance to Labatt’s partners.

View Bio & Schedule
jan-wescott

Jan Wescott

President & CEO, Spirits Canada

Jan Wescott

President & CEO, Spirits Canada

Spirits CEO Panel: Alcohol Innovation to Keep Spirits Up
Tuesday, March 2, 10:00AM-10:45AM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

Since 1998, Jan Westcott has served as CEO of Spirits Canada, the national trade association representing Canadian licensed manufacturers and marketers of premium spirits. Through the 1980’s, he served as President of the Canadian Wine Institute and, in 1989, became the founding CEO of the Brewers of Ontario, a provincial entity representing both licensed brewers and their distribution channel, The Beer Store.

View Bio & Schedule
megan-harris

Megan Harris

Director of Insights & Strategy, Labatt Breweries of Canada

Megan Harris

Director of Insights & Strategy, Labatt Breweries of Canada

Rediscover Your Guest: The 2021 Consumer
Tuesday, March 2, 12:00PM-12:45PM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

Megan has an enduring passion and curiosity for the Canadian consumer, culminating in 12 years of experience in Insights & Strategy positions across top tier CPG organizations in Canada. At Labatt, she leads a team responsible for trend identification, brand building & stewardship, strategic growth, and performance tracking. Her role continuously drives the voice of the consumer, to center them in our thinking to best create value in collaboration with customer and on-premise partners.

View Bio & Schedule
robert-carter

Robert Carter

Managing Partner, StratonHunter Group

Robert Carter

Managing Partner, StratonHunter Group

Coffee Panel: Robust Discussions on Coffee Diversification & Shifting Cafe Culture
Monday, March 1, 12:00PM-12:45PM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

Robert Carter is Canada’s leading restaurant and foodservice expert with over 20 years of unique industry experience spanning executive leadership, strategy, sales, marketing and research. As Managing Partner of The StratonHunter Group, Robert leads a portfolio of high growth companies in the foodservice and food-tech industry.

View Bio & Schedule
blair-macneil

Blair MacNeil

General Manager, Bacardi Canada

Blair MacNeil

General Manager, Bacardi Canada

State of the Bar
Monday, March 1, 10:00AM-10:45AM EST

Spirits CEO Panel: Alcohol Innovation to Keep Spirits Up
Tuesday, March 2, 10:00AM-10:45AM EST

Bar & Beverage Stage

Leader of Bacardi Canada business since 2016 and is a 15 year veteran of beverage alcohol.

View Bio & Schedule
neale-graham

Neale Graham

Managing Director, Canada and Canadian Brands, Beam Suntory Canada

Neale Graham

Managing Director, Canada and Canadian Brands, Beam Suntory Canada

Spirits CEO Panel: Alcohol Innovation to Keep Spirits Up
Tuesday, March 2, 10:00AM-10:45AM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

A 20+ year beverage alcohol industry veteran with more than 15 years at Beam Suntory. Inducted as a Keeper of the Quaich in 2019, Neale is also the current Board Chair at Spirits Canada, and an active volunteer with the Alzheimer's Society.

View Bio & Schedule
catherine-crozier

Catherine Crozier

Senior Director, Strategy, Marketing and Brand Innovation, McDonald’s Restaurants of Canada

Catherine Crozier

Senior Director, Strategy, Marketing and Brand Innovation, McDonald’s Restaurants of Canada

Coffee Panel: Robust Discussions on Coffee Diversification & Shifting Cafe Culture
Monday, March 1, 12:00PM-12:45PM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

Catherine Crozier is the brand architect for McDonald Restaurants of Canada’s Coffee Journey. She is responsible for the Omni Channel Strategy, Brand Innovation and Marketing of McCafé and Breakfast. Catherine is the current Chair of the Board of the Coffee Association of Canada.

View Bio & Schedule
sam-heath

Samuel Heath

Head of Retail, Tim Hortons

Samuel Heath

Head of Retail, Tim Hortons

Coffee Panel: Robust Discussions on Coffee Diversification & Shifting Cafe Culture
Monday, March 1, 12:00PM-12:45PM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

Sam has been with Tim Hortons in a variety of marketing roles since 2016, and in his current role in Retail (CPG) since 2018, where he has led the introduction of instant coffee, soup, and granola bars. He was the only Canadian at Burger King prior to the merger, and prior to joining RBI, he spent 5 years as head of strategy for the Ontario Lottery & Gaming Corporation and 6 years working as a McKinsey consultant. Sam has a Bachelor’s in Computer Science from UBC, and a PhD in Computational Biol

View Bio & Schedule
david-beaudoin

David Beaudoin

Canadian Cheese Ambassador, Squeaky Cheese Inc.

David Beaudoin

Canadian Cheese Ambassador, Squeaky Cheese Inc.

Unexpected Wine & Cheese Pairings
Monday, March 1, 4:00PM-4:45PM
‘Break the Mold’ Beer & Cheese Pairings
Tuesday, March 2, 4:00PM-4:45PM
Shifting Pairings: Coffee & Cheese
Wednesday, March 3, 4:00PM-4:45PM

After running every aspect of a cheese factory for over 10 years, running his own cheese distribution business and thorough understanding of the industry, David now shares his knowledge and enthusiasm for making, tasting, pairing and experiencing cheese of all kinds. Dubbed ‘The Cheese Poet’ and known locally as ‘The Canadian Cheese Ambassador,’ he also educates retailers, deli managers, and cheesemongers in understanding the benefits and handling practices of working with Canadian cheeses.

View Bio & Schedule
ted-moroz

Ted Moroz

President, Brewers' Distributor Limited and The Beer Store

Ted Moroz

President, Brewers' Distributor Limited and The Beer Store

Beer CEO Panel: Business Building Beer Insights
Monday, March 1, 11:00AM-11:45AM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

With over 30 years of professional experience, Ted Moroz specializes in Retail and Logistics Management. As the President of The Beer Store (TBS) and Brewers Distributor Ltd. (BDL), he is responsible for overseeing all aspects of these corporations. The two companies employ over 7,000 employees.

View Bio & Schedule
evelyn-chick

Evelyn Chick

Founder, Evelyn Chick Projects and Designer & Operator, SALTY, Stay at Home Cocktail Club

Evelyn Chick

Founder, Evelyn Chick Projects and Designer & Operator, SALTY, Stay at Home Cocktail Club

Bar & Beverage Stage Host

Evelyn is the founder of Evelyn Chick Projects Inc and Designer/ Operator of SALTY & Stay At Home Cocktail Club. She is a highly accredited specialist in the world of wine, spirits and the anatomy of all things bar & beverage. With a gleaming resume of globally-recognized certifications including WSET Sommelier and Certified Specialist of Spirits, she is an advocate for the continued growth and sustainability of an inclusive and integrated food and drink community within the Canadian market.

View Bio & Schedule
steve-puchala

Steve Puchala

Senior Vice President, Restaurants, SkipTheDishes

Steve Puchala

Senior Vice President, Restaurants, SkipTheDishes

State of the Bar
Monday, March 1, 10:00AM-10:45AM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

Steve Puchala is the Senior Vice President of Growth + Partner Success at SkipTheDishes. He and his team are responsible for not only bringing new partners onto the Skip network, but supporting the overall business of more than 30,000 partners by sharing insights, data, and innovative solutions that can drive growth and expand their customer base.

View Bio & Schedule
flavio

Flavio Geretto

Global Export Director, Villa Sandi Spa

Flavio Geretto

Global Export Director, Villa Sandi Spa

Wine CEO Panel: Pouring to Profitability
Wednesday, March 3, 10:00AM-10:45AM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

Flavio Geretto is Global Export Director of Villa Sandi - Moretti Polegato Wine Group, with 5 brands distributed in 111 countries for a total export volume of 25mil bottles ( 2,1 mil cases). He graduated in Economics from the University of Padua, with an “honors” final exam on wine marketing. He is an instructor of Wine Marketing Seminars for some italian universities and winemaker schools. He is co-author of "Italian Wine Beyond the Covid -19"( Wine Meridien 2020).

View Bio & Schedule
jason-greyerbiehl

Jason Greyerbiehl

VP Key Accounts, Labatt Breweries of Canada

Jason Greyerbiehl

VP Key Accounts, Labatt Breweries of Canada

The Future of Format in Beer & Beyond
Sunday, February 28, 3:00PM-3:45PM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

Jason Greyerbiehl is currently Vice President On Premise & Key Accounts at Labatt Breweries of Canada. He has spent over 25 years at Labatt, and is a skilled senior leader with in depth knowledge of the food & beverage industry. He builds and rosters enduring business relationships with Industry Partners across Canada. A passion for bringing people together, Jason is highly motivated to re-energize and help recover the On Premise channel.

View Bio & Schedule
nathan-cameron

Nathan Cameron

National Beverage Director, Recipe Unlimited

Nathan Cameron

National Beverage Director, Recipe Unlimited

The Future of Format in Beer & Beyond
Sunday, February 28, 3:00PM-3:45PM
Bar & Beverage Stage

Nathan Cameron is the National Beverage Director for Recipe Unlimited, a position he assumed in 2014. He oversees the end-to-end beverage management process for a number of brands including; The Landing Group, Bier Markt, Harvey's, Swiss Chalet, East Side Mario's, Pickle Barrel, Kelseys, Montana's, and Fionn MacCool's.

View Bio & Schedule
kyle-brown

Kyle Brown

Co-Founder, Unified Data Labs

Kyle Brown

Co-Founder, Unified Data Labs

Coffee Panel: Robust Discussions on Coffee Diversification & Shifting Cafe Culture
Monday, March 1, 12:00PM-12:45PM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

Kyle Brown, Vice President and Co-Founder Sirved.com and Unified Data Labs Inc. An established entrepreneur with over 10 years of experience in business and technology in the food and beverage industry. My knowledge in tech start up has led me to the role of product development with Unified Data to further analyze consumer behaviour trends and develop innovation in the food and beverage technology segment.

View Bio & Schedule
natasha-mytnowych

Natasha Mytnowych

Director, Globe and Mail Centre

Natasha Mytnowych

Director, Globe and Mail Centre

Diversify Your Revenue Stream
Monday, March 1, 2:00PM-2:45PM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

Natasha Mytnowych is the Managing Director of The Globe and Mail Centre, a conference and event venue for corporate and private events.

View Bio & Schedule
gregory-taylor

Gregory Taylor

CEO, Steam Whistle Brewing

Gregory Taylor

CEO, Steam Whistle Brewing

Beer CEO Panel: Business Building Beer Insights
Monday, March 1, 11:00AM-11:45AM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

A successful serial entrepreneur with inspiring leadership abilities, Greg Taylor lead Steam Whistle Brewing from start-up to become the largest craft beer brand in Canada, creating foundational, revered standards for his industry.

View Bio & Schedule
david-rudman

David Rudman

Executive Director, WSET Americas

David Rudman

Executive Director, WSET Americas

Wine CEO Panel: Pouring to Profitability
Wednesday, March 3, 10:00AM-10:45AM EST
Bar & Beverage Stage

Dave is responsible for WSET Americas, an independent subsidiary of WSET headquartered in Hartford, CT, USA, which is responsible for managing WSET’s business in North and South America.  The Americas are a diverse set of growth markets for WSET and demand for wines, spirits, sake, and beer education is high.  As Executive Director, Dave is responsible for ensuring that the best-in-class business development and operations WSET is known for is extended to our Approved Program Providers in the region.  Dave spent over 10 years previously working in the U.S. hospitality and distribution trades, holds the WSET Diploma in Wines & Spirits, is a WSET Certified Educator and earned a Masters in Business Administration from Yale School of Management.

View Bio & Schedule
Photo: Jessica Blaine Smith / http://jbsmithphotography.com

Christina Veira

Spirits Educator, Founder, Side Duties & General Manager, Bar Mordecai

Culinary Stage

jorge-munoz

Jorge Muñoz

Executive Chef, Astrid & Gaston

Jorge Muñoz

Executive Chef, Astrid & Gaston

Peruvian Cuisine: From Our Land to Your Menu
Monday, March 1, 12:00PM-12:45PM EST
Culinary Stage

Jorge Muñoz was born in Trujillo (Peru). In 2000, he moved to Barcelona with his family, then in 2004 decided to move to Australia where he began working in the hospitality industry. In 2009, he went to Paris to do a Master’s course at Cordon Bleu, and at the end of the course, he returned to Barcelona to begin to work in a vegetarian restaurant, and during the summers in Formentera.

In 2012, he started as a stagiaire at 41º Experience, where he worked in every aspect of the business including production, which he deemed was most important. During this stage, he cooked traditional Peruvian food for his colleagues, and towards the end of his internship, he was offered to join 41º Experience and lead Pakta's project together with Kyoko. They opt for a tasting menu discovering both the Peruvian and Japanese cuisine. In 2014, Pakta obtained its first star, and in 2015, also received the award for the best international restaurant from ABC newspaper.

He returned to Peru after 19 years to settle in Lima and currently leads the Peruvian restaurant Astrid & Gaston, which he took over in March of 2020. Astrid & Gaston was among the world's 50 best restaurants in the world in 2018.

View Bio & Schedule
peter-napathalung

Peter Napathalung

Director, Syndicated Research, Technomic

Peter Napathalung

Director, Syndicated Research, Technomic Inc.

Reinventing with Eggs
Tuesday, March 2, 3:00PM-3:45PM EST
Culinary Stage

Peter Napathalung is the Director of Syndicated Research at Technomic, Inc and has been with them since 2012. Before his time at Technomic, Peter worked as a private chef and has cooked at both high-volume and independent restaurants across the US.

View Bio & Schedule
nancy-hewitt

Nancy Hewitt

EFO Foodservice Program Consultant & IntoGREAT President

Nancy Hewitt

EFO Foodservice Program Consultant & IntoGREAT President

Reinventing with Eggs
Tuesday, March 2, 3:00PM-3:45PM EST
Culinary Stage

A grad of Western / Brescia College, Food & Nutrition program, she’s been developing foodservice business for over 25 years for tier one companies such as: Campbell Soup and Compass Group. To expand her food experience, the past decade she has enjoyed consulting local Agriculture organizations. Currently she oversees the Foodservice Program for the Egg Farmers of Ontario. While consulting, Nancy also launched IntoGREAT, a business that Specializes in Healthcare Foodservice Sales Solutions.

View Bio & Schedule
afrim-pristine

Afrim Pristine

Maître Fromager & Co-Owner, Cheese Boutique

Afrim Pristine

Maître Fromager & Co-Owner, Cheese Boutique

Community & Collaboration: Diversifying Restaurant Revenue & Growing Margins through Smart Local Partnerships
Monday, March 1, 1:00PM-1:45PM EST
Culinary Stage

Afrim has been working in this industry for 25 years of the 50 years that Cheese Boutique has existed. He has a national best-selling cookbook and is the host of the new Food Network Canada show "Cheese: A Love Story." He's worked and consulted with some of Canada's and the world's greatest chefs. He's the brand ambassador for the Dairy Farmers of Ontario, Aperol and Conestoga Eggs.

View Bio & Schedule
vijaya-selvaraju

Vijaya Selvaraju

Food Media Producer & Cooking Expert, Vijaya Selvaraju

Vijaya Selvaraju

Food Media Producer & Cooking Expert, Vijaya Selvaraju

Culinary Stage Host
Sunday, February 28 - Wednesday, March 3

Vijaya Selvaraju is a Food Media Producer based in Toronto, Canada. As a Culinary Expert on CTV's THE MARILYN DENIS SHOW and Your Morning, Vijaya brings a fun and accessible approach to food with an "If I can do it, you can do it to" attitude.

View Bio & Schedule
ralph-carlone

Ralph Carlone

Bakery & Pizzeria Consultant, PizzaPerPassione Academy

Ralph Carlone

Bakery & Pizzeria Consultant, PizzaPerPassione Academy

How to Make the Perfect Italian Pizza Dough
Sunday, February 28, 2:00PM-2:45PM EST
Culinary Stage

Ralph arrived in Scotland from Italy in 1991, initially working as a pizzaiolo and quickly winning various pizza competitions in Europe. He then started teaching professional courses with great success. In 2015 he opened his PizzaPerPassione Academy were he trains people from all over the world and also does consulting on new openings and start up pizzerias and bakeries.

View Bio & Schedule
shawn-adler

Shawn Adler

Chef, Pow Wow Cafe and The Flying Chestnut Kitchen

Shawn Adler

Chef, Pow Wow Cafe and The Flying Chestnut Kitchen

Foodservice Foraging: How to Bring your Backyard to your Menu
Monday, March 1, 10:00AM-10:45AM EST
Culinary Stage

Shawn is the chef and owner of Pow Wow Cafe in Toronto as well as chef and owner of The Flying Chestnut Kitchen in Eugenia. He has been foraging since he was a kid and has always been putting things in his mouth, now he gets paid to put things in other people's mouths.

View Bio & Schedule
rachel-plett

Rachel Plett

Canadian Chicken Farmer

Rachel Plett

Canadian Chicken Farmer

Behind the Barn Door: Onsite Live Chicken Farm Tour & Q&A
Tuesday, March 2, 1:00PM-1:45PM EST
Culinary Stage

Rachel Plett is a third generation farmer living in southern Manitoba where she works with her parents and brothers on their mixed grain and broiler chicken farm. She also shares her poultry expertise as a part time Field Services Technician with Manitoba Chicken Producers visiting registered chicken farms to ensure they meet the Raised by a Canadian Farmer On Farm Food Safety and Animal Care Program national standards.

View Bio & Schedule
ned-bell

Ned Bell

Partner, General Manager & Executive Chef, Naramata Inn

Ned Bell

Partner, General Manager, & Executive Chef, Naramata Inn

Sustainability, Seafood & COVID: Keeping Seafood on the Menu to Fuel Recovery
Monday, March 1, 2:00PM-2:45PM EST

It’s Back...The Alaska Wild Throwdown
Wednesday, March 3, 2:00PM-2:45PM

Culinary Stage

Ned is a well-known culinary talent who forged a path as a chef advocate, keynote speaker and educator, and now owner and chef at Naramata Inn. As one of the country’s leading chefs, he has used his voice, outgoing personality, and indomitable spirit to stand up for the world’s lakes, oceans and rivers. Honours: Fellow of The Royal Canadian Geographical Society (2019), Honorary Doctorate in Technology from Vancouver Island University (2019), SeaWeb Seafood Summit Global Champion Award (2017).

View Bio & Schedule
lisa-bishop-spencer

Lisa Bishop-Spencer

Director, Brand & Communications, Chicken Farmers of Canada

Lisa Bishop-Spencer

Director, Brand & Communications, Chicken Farmers of Canada

Behind the Barn Door: Onsite Live Chicken Farm Tour & Q&A
Tuesday, March 2, 1:00PM-1:45PM EST
Culinary Stage

Lisa is a marketing, communications, and public relations professional with 20 years of public relations, branding, consumer relations, and strategic planning leadership and experience. She is also a certified Crisis Manager with the Institute for Crisis Management. She and her team at Chicken Farmers of Canada have been responsible for bringing Canadians closer to farmers and for ensuring that Canadians know that Canadian chicken is raised by farmers we can all trust.

View Bio & Schedule
victor-barry

Victor Barry

Chef & Owner, Piano Piano

Victor Barry

Chef & Owner, Piano Piano

Community & Collaboration: Diversifying Restaurant Revenue & Growing Margins through Smart Local Partnerships
Sunday, February 28, 1:00PM-1:45PM EST
Culinary Stage

Victor is a born and bred Ontario chef. His work ethic, passed down from his father, has driven him to his position as one of Toronto’s premier chefs. He has honed his culinary skills around the world and has made an indelible mark on Toronto’s restaurant landscape.

View Bio & Schedule
bill-dimento

Bill DiMento

Corporate VP of Sustainability & Government Affairs, High Liner Foods

Bill DiMento

Corporate VP of Sustainability & Government Affairs, High Liner Foods

Sustainability, Seafood & COVID: Keeping Seafood on the Menu to Fuel Recovery
Monday, March 1, 2:00PM-2:45PM EST
Culinary Stage

Bill DiMento is Vice President of Corporate Sustainability and Government Affairs at High Liner Foods. He oversees corporate-level Sustainability initiatives and Government Affairs ensuring that the company is meeting the strictest of standards in manufacturing, seafood procurement and social compliance through its supply chain. Under Bill’s leadership, the company continues to strengthen its commitment to sustainable practices by increasing the amount of products that are certified sustainable.

View Bio & Schedule
philman-george

Philman George

Chef, High Liner Foodservice

Philman George

Chef, High Liner Foodservice

Seafood is Better To-Go
Tuesday, March 2, 2:00PM-2:45PM
Culinary Stage

Inclusive Kitchen: Tackling Systemic Racism
Tuesday, March 2, 3:00PM-3:45PM
Speaker Stage

It’s Back...The Alaska Wild Throwdown
Wednesday, March 2, 2:00PM-2:45PM
Culinary Stage

Philman is no stranger to seafood! With both of his parents hailing from the small Caribbean island of Barbuda, he naturally learned to appreciate seafood at a young age. He has worked in a wide variety of establishments from the traditional English style pub to award winning restaurants, private clubs & hotels In Canada, Australia and the Caribbean. His goal is to place craveable seafood on your menu and help you generate more profit through the “Heart of the House” aka the kitchen!

View Bio & Schedule
agatha-podgorski

Agatha Podgorski

Director, Communications, Culinary Tourism Alliance

Agatha Podgorski

Director, Communications, Culinary Tourism Alliance

Foodways: Connecting People and Place Through Food
Sunday, February 28, 10:00AM-10:45AM EST
Culinary Stage

Agatha believes in local food, responsible purchasing practices and the health benefits of a glass of good pinot. At the Culinary Tourism Alliance, she works to build lasting relationships between destinations, media, chefs and farmers through education, storytelling and knowledge sharing. She has contributed to numerous food and drink publications including The Globe & Mail, Westjet Magazine and The Toronto Star.

View Bio & Schedule
graham-schave

Graham Schave

Chef, High Liner Foods

Graham Schave

Chef, High Liner Foods

Sustainability, Seafood & COVID: Keeping Seafood on the Menu to Fuel Recovery
Monday, March 1, 2:00PM-2:45PM

It’s Back...The Alaska Wild Throwdown
Wednesday, March 3, 2:00PM-2:45PM

With over two decades of experience in the food industry and a vast array of exposure to restaurants, hotels, bakeries, entrepreneurial ventures and all things culinary, Chef Graham seeks to share his passion of cooking and seafood with all of you. His enthusiasm to leverage his culinary experience to create innovative solutions now extends into product research and development. When not in the kitchen Graham enjoys gardening, traveling and spending time with his wife and daughter.

View Bio & Schedule
charlotte-langley

Charlotte Langley

Chief Culinary Officer & Co-Founder, Scout Canning and MSC Ambassador

Charlotte Langley

Chief Culinary Officer & Co-Founder of Scout Canning and MSC Ambassador

Sustainability, Seafood & COVID: Keeping Seafood on the Menu to Fuel Recovery
Monday, March 1, 2:00PM-2:45PM

It’s Back...The Alaska Wild Throwdown
Wednesday, March 3, 2:00PM-2:45PM

Never bound by titles or labels, Charlotte Langley is constantly reinventing herself and what it means to be a chef, culinary curator, entrepreneur, ambassador for sustainability, ocean steward and a champion of the people and causes she believes in.

View Bio & Schedule
omar-omran

Omar Jacques Omran

Sr. Director, KitchenConnect, Welbilt Inc.

Omar Jacques Omran

Sr. Director, KitchenConnect, Welbilt Inc.

Kitchen Trends: How the New Normal Will Drive Innovation
Monday, March 1, 11:00AM-11:45AM EST
Culinary Stage

Omar Omran is Sr. Director of KitchenConnect at Welbilt. Prior to Welbilt, he founded and led Middleby's IoT platform, Middleby Connect, as well as co-founded 2 startups: Teranotes (social learning platform) and Live Love (one of the largest social media enterprises in the Middle East). Omar's passion is about improving people's lives through technology and innovation. He developed an online Malaria detection software using AI with a higher accuracy and speed than existing rapid test solutions.

View Bio & Schedule
rick-caron

Rick Caron

Executive Vice President & Chief Innovation Officer, Welbilt, Inc.

Rick Caron

Executive Vice President & Chief Innovation Officer, Welbilt, Inc.

Kitchen Trends: How the New Normal Will Drive Innovation
Monday, March 1, 11:00AM-11:45AM EST
Culinary Stage

Rick Caron is EVP and Chief Innovation Officer of Welbilt, Inc. He is passionate about shaping the future of the global foodservice industry at the intersection of food, technology and people. Rick previously served as CEO for the Moseley Corp. and CEO of TurboChef, Inc. He is a graduate of MIT where he earned an M.S. and B.S. in Chemical Engineering Practice.

View Bio & Schedule
cameron-p

Cameron Pappel

Culinary & Innovation Manager, Canada Beef Centre of Excellence

Cameron Pappel

Culinary and Innovation Manager, Canada Beef Centre of Excellence

Best of Butchery: Uncovering Menu Ideation & Industry Tools
Monday, March 1, 3:00PM-3:45PM EST
Culinary STage

Cameron received his bachelor of science in biology from the University of Victoria in 2011. He spent the next two years in Australia working primarily in agriculture and in the kitchen. Upon returning home, he attended culinary school at Vancouver Island University. This led to working in restaurants in Nanaimo, Kelowna, Tofino and Montreal before moving to Calgary to take on the role of Centre Chef, and then Culinary and Innovation Manager at the Canadian Beef Centre of Excellence.

View Bio & Schedule
mathieu-pare

Mathieu Paré

Executive Director, Canada Beef Centre of Excellence

Mathieu Paré

Executive Director, Canada Beef Centre of Excellence

Best of Butchery: Uncovering Menu Ideation & Industry Tools
Monday, March 1, 3:00PM-3:45PM EST
Culinary STage

Mathieu Paré has been with Canada Beef since 2017 as Executive Director for the Canadian Beef Centre of Excellence. In this leadership role, Mathieu acts as an ambassador for Canadian beef and veal in domestic and foreign markets, oversees the CBCE's culinary and butchery talent, and manages its facility and activities. In his time at the CBCE, Mathieu has designed and hosted more than 20 incoming international buyer’s missions, over 60 domestic product development engagements.

View Bio & Schedule
paul-natrall

Paul Natrall

Executive Chef, Mr Bannock Indigenous Cuisine

Paul Natrall

Executive Chef, Mr Bannock Indigenous Cuisine

Foodservice Foraging: How to Bring Your Backyard to Your Menu
Monday, March 1, 10:00AM-10:45AM EST
Culinary Stage

Paul is the founder and executive chef of Mr Bannock Indigenous Cuisine and Mr Bannock Coffee House. He is a founding member and board director of Indigenius Culinary of Associated Nations. He is all about cooking, showcasing and eating anything indigenous cuisine. He's been cooking in a professional kitchens since 2007 but has been around the kitchen since a kid.

View Bio & Schedule

Explore the 2021 Schedule

Check out our schedule for more details on our educational sessions and solution-based content.

VIEW SCHEDULE