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GENERAL SESSION / MONDAY / OCTOBER 23, 2017 / 8:00 AM

How can trending technologies enhance the customer experience?

Between higher wages and new labor regulations, restaurants are facing a labor crisis, and the outdated processes they rely on aren’t helping their problems. This session will not only show operators how outdated and inconsistent scheduling practices are taking a toll on the bottom line, but experts will also provide tips to help solve these problems.

PANELISTS

Eric Lavinder | Executive Director of Operations | ML Foods (The Simple Greek)

Eric Lavinder is the Executive Director of Operations for ML Foods, LLC. In this role Eric oversees all field operations for corporate and franchised locations, our construction department, distribution and logistics, vendors, new store opening process, compliance and brand standards. Prior to ML Foods Eric was the Director of U.S. Non-traditional Operations and Business Development for Quiznos. Responsible for growing sales, and developing new and existing master clients throughout the US. Prior to that, he was Regional Director of Operations for the Northeast at Quiznos. Eric has also served in various other operational and business development roles in banking, restaurants and real estate before joining Quiznos.

Meg Rose | VP, Field Operations | Firehouse Subs of America

Meg Rose is Vice President of Field Operations for Firehouse Subs of America where she oversees operations and compliance for the 970+ unit, fast casual restaurant chain. A leader with more than 27 years of restaurant industry experience with some of the largest chain concepts in the nation, Meg joined Firehouse Subs in 2007 as Franchise Business Manager. Meg’s monumental accomplishments and passion for serving others earned her the 2011 Culture Award for her work on behalf of the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation. In 2015 Meg was named as one of the Women of Influence by the Jacksonville Business Journal.

MODERATOR

Michelle Strong | CMO | Long Range Systems

As Chief Marketing Officer for Long Range Systems, Michelle Strong is responsible for LRS’ product strategy, marketing programs, client services, corporate communications, and sales support. Joining LRS in 2012, Michelle assumed oversight of LRS’ marketing, branding, and product development to enhance LRS’ repertoire of messaging and tracking solutions. Today, Michelle works closely with LRS’ clients, business partners, and operating units to assess market needs, uncover emerging trends, understand competitive offerings, and recommend product strategies that best position LRS to address on-site communication and tracking needs with integrated hardware and software offerings.