Leader to Leader, An Executive Exchange Session - The Foundation of an Influential Brand

Join us for an exclusive executive exchange featuring two industry trailblazers who have helped transform their culturally inspired restaurant brands into American household names.

• Liz Williams, CEO of El Pollo Loco, has carved out a distinct niche in the fast-casual space with its signature fire-grilled chicken and bold Mexican-inspired flavors. With a focus on fresh, wholesome, and health-conscious ingredients, Liz has driven the brand’s innovation through digital transformation and menu evolution, all while staying true to its roots and community-focused values.

• Jim Mazany, CEO of P.F. Chang's, leads a globally recognized brand known for its bold Asian-inspired cuisine and immersive dining experiences. Under Jim's leadership, P.F. Chang's has continued to innovate while honoring its culinary heritage, expanding its presence worldwide and redefining the modern dining landscape with a focus on quality, creativity, and guest satisfaction

In this dynamic fireside chat, these accomplished leaders will interview each other, offering rare peer-to-peer insights into the strategic decisions, operational philosophies, and leadership approaches that that set their brands apart in today’s competitive landscape. This isn’t your typical conference discussion—it’s an intimate conversation between two executives who understand the pressures of building unique, trend-worthy brands while staying true to their identities. They’ve cultivated loyal fan bases while attracting new audiences, and they’ll share candid insights, strategic revelations, and actionable leadership wisdom you won’t hear anywhere else.