Join Us to Experience a New Era for Onsite Foodservice

An EPIC Event
Join Us to Experience a New Era for Onsite Foodservice
In the words of Julius Caesar, veni, vidi, vici … Come, see, conquer! Come to the one educational event
that is uniquely focused on your career and your industry. See the invaluable opportunities for career
enhancement, relationship-building and operational innovation. Conquer the myths that plague onsite
foodservice and define the reality of what is and what can be — as we unite our vision, share our strength
and lead our industry to a victorious new era!
Five Myths You’ll Conquer at Conference
MYTH: Small sites can’t offer innovation and variety
REALITY: Small-site solutions work for retail—and they will work for you. Find out how!
MYTH: Health and wellness doesn’t sell
REALITY: Your program can be healthy and profitable. See it for yourself!
MYTH: It’s difficult to maintain an engaged service staff
REALITY: The Ritz-Carlton does it every day ... and they’ll teach you how to follow their lead.
MYTH: Social media doesn’t work in the corporate environment
REALITY: Social media can drive sales in onsite foodservice—with just a few steps.
MYTH: Turning a profit is a multi-year investment
REALITY: With the right strategy, your operation can quickly go from red to black ... hear how your
vision can drive reality.
You’ll take away systems, strategies and tactical tips to conquer these myths once and for all — and define
the reality of what success will look like in this new era of onsite foodservice!
II
Las Vegas – Your Unique and Exciting Host City
Conference Hotel Reservations
SFM hotel reservations can be secured online or by phone. Visit sfm-online.org and click on the conference link to the hotel reservations
page or call the Caesars Palace Reservation Desk and identify yourself as an attendee of the Society for Foodservice Management (SFM)
Conference, group code SCSFM2. Our special conference rate is $199 plus tax. SFM conference activities will take place in the Palace Tower.
For your convenience, we recommend booking your guest room in the Palace Tower as well.
The cut-off date for hotel reservations at the conference rate is Friday, August 10, 2012. After this date, the hotel will honor reservations
on a space and rate availability basis. We encourage you to book reservations at your earliest opportunity. Remember — You Help SFM
When You Stay Onsite!
Caesars Palace
3570 Las Vegas Boulevard South | Las Vegas, Nevada 89109
Reservation Desk: (866) 227-5944 | Hotel Check-In: 4:00 p.m. | Check-Out: 11:00 a.m.
Explore Caesars Palace at www.caesarspalace.com.
Spa Services
If you would like to book a spa treatment between September 9th and 15th at a 15% discounted rate, please contact Qua Baths & Spa
exclusively at Caesars Palace. The discount is good for treatments only. Make your appointment today at (702) 731-7926.
General Conference Information
Registration Process
Please register by using the enclosed form or register online at sfm-online.org. After your registration form has been processed,
SFM Headquarters will send you a confirmation email. If you have any questions regarding the registration process, please call
SFM Headquarters at (502) 574-9931. Register on or before August 10th and save!
Conference Attire
The conference attire is business casual. The suggested attire for the President’s Banquet is cocktail, black tie optional.
Continuing Education Credits
The conference program will be submitted for approval to Foodservice Consultants Society International (FCSI)
and North American Association of Food Equipment Manufacturers (NAFEM) for continuing education credits.
Distribution of Publications and Promotional Materials
Distribution of brochures, fact sheets, advertising, industry publications and promotional materials is not
allowed during the conference except for companies participating in the official conference sponsorship program.
Distribution of these materials by sponsors is allowed only within the guidelines of the sponsorship program.
Scheduling Non-SFM Functions
Events that conflict with officially sponsored SFM events or educational programming are not allowed during the conference.
This includes hospitality suites, special breakfasts, focus groups or similar events.
III
General Session Presentations
Define and Conquer: Defining Vision to Create Victory
Carin Stutz, CEO, Cosi, Inc.
In a successful turnaround, vision is everything—and you’ll experience this first-hand with Cosi CEO
Carin Stutz. Explore her ultimate vision for the company, her leadership principles and the strategic
decisions she’s implemented to guide the turnaround of the Cosi brand. Carin will explore the myths
associated with past performance and highlight the strategic components of a path to success. Learn the
critical elements Cosi is using to achieve their vision and how you can apply these principles to conquer
your own operational challenges.
35 Restaurants in 25 Years: What I’ve Learned
Drew Nieporent, Founder/Owner, Myriad Restaurant Group
Growing up in New York, Drew Nieporent’s dream was to be a restaurateur. From working the Quarter
Pounder grill at McDonald’s to creating such iconic restaurants as Tribeca Grill, Nobu, Montrachet and
Corton, Drew has learned many lessons while setting a standard for excellence. He’ll share his journey,
offering insights you can apply to your own foodservice operation.
POWER PANEL: HEALTHY PROGRAMS WITH HEALTHY PROFITS
Lenny DeMartino, General Manager, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield
Michelle Dudash, RD, Chef and Author
Vinnie Livoti, CCA, FMP, Director of Food Services, Blue Cross Blue Shield of SC
Dr. James Painter, Nutritional Motivational Speaker
Back by popular demand, join Dr. James Painter and a trio of panelists as they dispel the
myths that healthy programs are difficult to execute and challenging to sell. Dr. Painter
will speak about which foods are essential to promote heart health, while panelists
Lenny DeMartino, Vinnie Livoti and Michelle Dudash, will provide important tips on
developing a successful program—from operations to culinary and nutritional aspects.
– Session support provided by: The California Raisin Marketing Board
Igniting Employee Passion for Service Excellence
Alexandra Valentin, Corporate Director, The Ritz-Carlton Leadership Center
Want to inspire your employees to achieve legendary performances, the Ritz-Carlton way? This session is
for you! Learn to motivate your employees to volunteer their best work every day. This program focuses
on how to tap into your emotional intelligence, thereby inspiring pride and passion in your employees.
Explore how clearly defining functions set the foundation at The Ritz-Carlton, how cascading the
Strategic Plan at Ritz-Carlton inspires legendary outcomes and how passion can be linked to business
results. Come away with innovative ways to inspire employees and a true appreciation for the value of
using emotional intelligence in the workplace.
IV
THE ONE HOUR WINE EXPERT: LIES, MYTHS AND OTHER TALES
Kevin Zraly, Founder and Teacher, Windows on the World Wine School
This fast-paced, action-packed, one hour class features wines from the six major grape varietiesRiesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Kevin is always
looking for a $20 bottle of wine that tastes like it’s $40. Take advantage of hearing this “naturally gifted
speaker” says Robert Parker, “Kevin is the finest wine educator I have known.”
Sessions are listed in order of the agenda. Check out speaker bios at sfm-online.org.
CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Defining New Design Realities
Gerald J. White, Associate Publisher, PLATE Magazine, Moderator
Carol Bentel, Partner, Bentel & Bentel
Nahum Goldberg, Senior Associate, Cini·Little International, Inc.
Shannon McNutt, Principal, Mesher Shing McNutt
Conquer the myth of being “only a cafeteria” through fresh design and better-managed space. Discussions will focus on
the elimination of traditional steam table wells and other “cafeteria connotations,” ways to contain costs and the increasing
value placed on convenience and consistency. A special focus will be placed on costs and profits, as well as customer
satisfaction. Design a space that stands out among the retail competition!
Conquering Customer Connectivity:
How to Define Your Social Media Reality to Build Your Sales and Brand
Kathleen Wood, Founder, Kathleen Wood Partners, LLC
Social media is a part of our everyday life. We live in a 24/7 connected world. Yet how do you make meaningful
connections with your customers to build sales and expand your brand presence? In this action packed high-energy
session, Kathleen will share her social media insights, practical solutions, and “how-to’s” for building sales and expanding
your brand. Kathleen guarantees you will leave this session more connected than when you arrived!
V
DAILY AGENDA
Tuesday, September 11
7:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
GOLF TOURNAMENT (Optional: Additional cost for participation, see registration form.)
10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
REGISTRATION
1:00 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.
CAESARs Back-of-the-house TOUR
The Annual SFM Golf Tournament will take place on the Snow Mountain Course at the Las Vegas Paiute Golf
Resort. The 18-hole course features 7,164 total yards for a par of 72. Snow Mountain showcases wide rye grass
fairways, seven holes with water and a progressive layout. Space is limited —so register to play TODAY!
This is your opportunity to see Caesars employee dining operation in action.
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
LIAISON/SELF-OPERATOR FORUM
(Liaison or Self-Operator attendees only)
SFM liaisons and self-operators will come together again this year for a Joint Session Forum providing
plenty of time to interact with colleagues. Designed for the exchange of ideas among similar membership
classifications, the forum is informal and will be facilitated to allow for meaningful dialogue on issues
of mutual interest. This workshop is scheduled early to enhance your professional networking throughout
the conference, so don’t miss out!
4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
LIAISON/SELF-OPERATOR SPONSOR RECEPTION
6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
New Member/First-Time Attendee Reception
(New Members or First-Time attendees only)
New to SFM? Be the first to experience the Chateau and take this important first step toward becoming
involved with SFM and the personal and business networks it represents. Learn what to expect at various
events and meet the leadership of the organization as we say “Welcome to SFM!”
7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
OPENING RECEPTION and silent auction
Join your fellow attendees for an evening of networking at the Chateau Gardens in the Paris Las Vegas.
Enjoy the fabulous view of The Strip and the Bellagio fountain show as you jump start your conference
experience. The annual SFM Silent Auction will also be held during the reception. The auction raises funds
to promote and educate college students on the merits of onsite foodservice. The SFM Foundation develops
outreach programs to attract the best college students to the onsite industry. To donate an auction item,
please see the enclosed auction donation form.
Wednesday, September 12
7:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
REGISTRATION
7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.
BREAKFAST/COMMITTEE MEETINGS
Time has been set-aside for SFM standing committees (IAB, Marketing, Membership
and Program) to meet over breakfast.
8:45 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
OPENING GENERAL SESSION – Define and Conquer: Defining Vision to Create Victory
Welcome by John Baker, Senior Vice President, Enterprise Effectiveness at Caesars Entertainment Corporation
Keynote by Carin Stutz, CEO, Cosi, Inc.
10:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
NETWORKING BREAK/SPONSOR NETWORKING TABLES
11:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
CONCURRENT SESSIONS
Please select one of the following sessions to attend and indicate your choice on the registration form.
DEFINING NEW DESIGN REALITIES
Gerald J. White, Associate Publisher, PLATE Magazine, Moderator
Carol Bentel, Partner, Bentel & Bentel
Nahum Goldberg, Senior Associate, Cini·Little International, Inc.
Shannon McNutt, Principal, Mesher Shing McNutt
VI
CONQUERING CUSTOMER CONNECTIVITY
Kathleen Wood, Founder, Kathleen Wood Partners, LLC
12:45 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.
President’s Luncheon
This special luncheon will honor SFM’s elite with the Directors’ Awards for community
involvement, leadership, spirit and other forms of distinguished service. Be sure to attend this
lunch honoring the best in the industry.
2:30 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.
General Session - 35 Restaurants in 25 Years: What I’ve Learned
Drew Nieporent, Founder/Owner, Myriad Restaurant Group
4:15 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Hunger Awareness/Charitable Activity
(Optional: Additional cost for participation, see registration form.)
Join us for a crazy, fun-filled event that benefits an outstanding cause, the Whitney Elementary
School of Las Vegas. This year, we’re putting the Hunger Walk aside and racing. Revving engines,
waving checkered flags, smooth, gleaming tracks and – “souped up” veggie cars. Yes, we’re Veggie
Drag Racing! Do some good, get on a team, build a car, meet some of the kids and have a great
time. Watch this video and you’ll understand more about this very worthy cause,
http://www.cbsnews.com/2100-18563_162-20070437.html.
OPEN EVENING
Thursday, September 13
7:15 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Registration
7:45 a.m. – 8:45 a.m.
Breakfast/Business Meeting
9:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.
General Session – Power Panel: Healthy Programs with Healthy Profits
Lenny DeMartino, General Manager, Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield
Michelle Dudash, RD, Chef and Author
Vinnie Livoti, CCA, FMP, Director of Food Services, Blue Cross Blue Shield of SC
Dr. James Painter, Nutritional Motivational Speaker
10:15 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
Networking Break
10:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
General Session – Igniting Employee Passion for Service Excellence
Alexandra Valentin, Corporate Director, The Ritz-Carlton Leadership Center
12:15 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.
Sponsorship Showcase & Lunch
Enhance your resource network by meeting company representatives and gathering the latest
industry information. You’ll see the most recent products and services from key industry
vendors while discovering new ideas and business solutions.
3:00 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.
Closing General Session –
The One Hour Wine Expert: Lies, Myths and Other Tales
Kevin Zraly, Founder and Teacher, Windows on the World Wine School
7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
President’s Reception
8:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
President’s Banquet
Join us for this special night to witness the passing of the gavel from 2012 President Barbara
Kane to Incoming 2013 President Mark Freeman.
See pages IV and V for further session details
VII
Special Thanks to Our 2012 Conference Sponsors
Diamond
Platinum
Gold
Silver
REFRIGERATION
Silver Media
Bronze
™
Cini•Little
Hotel Key Card
cyber cafe
USB DRIVE
NEW MEMBER / FIRST TIME ATTENDEE RECEPTION
Want to sponsor? Contact Lorraine Houghton at (502) 574-9036 or Lhoughton@hqtrs.com.
455 South Fourth Street, Suite 650 | Louisville, KY 40202 | P: 502.574.9931 | F: 502.589.3602 | sfm-online.org |
(as of June 1, 2012)