Social Justice in the Foodservice Industry

Robert Byrne manages Ignite Consumer, Technomic’s comprehensive consumer brand tracking program which provides both ongoing chain brand health and consumer attitude and usage tracking. He also specializes in crafting custom presentations and reports covering brand strategy and trends, utilizing consumer and industry insights. Robert is an expert in interpreting the impact that current and emerging foodservice consumer trends may have on business, and helps clients tackle tough questions to better inform their strategy and approach.

Britany Trujillo is a Research Analyst at Technomic who works with operator and supplier clients to inform brand strategy, leveraging the Ignite Consumer brand health and foodservice attitude and usage program. Driven by data, Britany takes pride in getting to those “ah-ha” moments and providing clients with clear, actionable insights. She holds a Master of Science in Marketing Research from Michigan State University and in her free time, enjoys playing make-believe “restaurant” with her four-year-old son, Chef Carter.

As the Chief People Officer for First Watch, Laura Sorensen oversees all aspects of the employee experience, including staffing and people development, employee relations, diversity and strategic planning. She joined the First Watch team in 2016 with years of experience working in Human Resources for prominent brands. Most recently, she worked as a member of the executive team as the senior Vice President of Human Resources for Darden’s LongHorn Steakhouse, where she oversaw all Human Resources priorities and initiatives for nearly 500 restaurants and 30,000 employees. Before working with Darden, Laura served as the Director of Human Resources at Chico’s and as the strategic business partner to White House / Black Market brand president and executive team for all brand business functions. She also served on the Board of Directors for the Orlando chapter of the Adult Literacy League. Laura earned a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and an MBA with a specialization in Human Resources management from the University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida.