Empowering the next generation of hospitality industry leaders

LEAD is a non-profit organization that provides emerging restaurant and hospitality leaders with an affordable platform for networking, learning from industry experts, and personal development. 

LEAD | Leadership, Exploration and Development for Emerging Restaurant Leaders

Sponsored by

Wow Bao Logo
Texas Restaurant Association Logo
Lunchbox Logo
Craveworthy Brands Logo
FB Society Logo
PepsiCo Logo
Toast Logo
Schoox Logo
Branded Strategic Logo
Barcelona Wine Bar Logo
Ayden Logo

This was an amazing opportunity to grow and develop. Every single speaker was amazing!

- Daniel Navarro, General Manager | Olive Garden

The Council

LEAD Council Member:  Amy Hom
LEAD Council Member: Carin Stutz
LEAD Council Member: Amber Day
LEAD Council Member: Cassy Boss
LEAD Council Member: Julie Zucker
LEAD Council Member: Katy Stocks
LEAD Council Member: Kelly Grogan
LEAD Council Member: Kim Bolinger
LEAD Council Member: Kim DeCarolis
LEAD Council Member: Kristen Albert
LEAD Council Member: Laura Wilber
LEAD Council Member: Lorrie Bennecke
LEAD Council Member: Matt Rolfe
LEAD Council Member: Michael Buchmeier
LEAD Council Member: Nancy
 Van Vlimmeren
LEAD Council Member: Olivia Fazzola
LEAD Council Member: Robin Robison
LEAD Council Member: Savannah Schmidt


LEAD’s Upcoming Events

Register for our in-person events to hear and learn from top restaurant and hospitality leaders.

LEAD in Dallas

Dallas

The Porch at The Ranch

July 9, 2025

Speakers:

Speakers Jack Gibbons and Dr. Emily Knight
LEAD in San Diego

Atlanta

WiRL Workshop / Luncheon

September 2, 2025

Speakers:

LEAD in Dallas

San Diego

Sysco

October 28, 2025

Speakers:

Speaker TBD
LEAD in New York

New York

Stay tuned for the location!

Stay Tuned!

Speakers:

Speaker TBD

Recommend Your City

Want to send yourself or your team to our training and networking events in your city? Submit your request, and it could be added to our 2026 lineup!