In a world that’s rapidly evolving, staying ahead of the curve is essential for any industry, but it’s especially crucial in the world of hospitality. GravyWork is passionate about being at the forefront of industry change and sustainability! We recently had the opportunity to attend the Society of Hospitality and Foodservice Management’s 2023 National Conference. The event was nothing short of spectacular, featuring meaningful conversations with key industry experts about the vision and strategy for successful and sustainable hospitality services moving forward.

Before diving into our experience at the conference, let’s talk a bit about SHFM. They are an incredible organization dedicated to advancing the hospitality and foodservice industry. SHFM’s mission is to provide resources and opportunities for professionals in the field to network, learn, and grow. One of SHFM’s most significant accomplishments is their dedication to student and young professional development. By supporting higher education through scholarships and student outreach programs, SHFM is committed to the continued growth of an extremely vital industry. This commitment drives consistent productivity and morale for millions of people in the industry. The 2023 National Conference was a feat of recognition for all that SHFM does. 

This year’s SHFM National Conference was truly exceptional - it brought together professionals, leaders, and experts from various sectors of hospitality. These discussions not only provided valuable insights into critical topics such as Labor Shortages, Part-Time Staffing, and Culinary Trends, it also helped foster a sense of community among attendees. The conference kicked off with a bang on Monday, September 11th. Early risers had the opportunity to hit the greens at the Foundation Golf Tournament, while others got a taste of local culture with the Mission Garden Tour & Salsa Challenge. The day was buzzing with activity, from the registration meet & greets to the opening of the Silent Auction.

Day two didn’t disappoint either! The Keynoter General Session, “Be The Change: Thrive @ Work and Life,” set the tone for a day of inspiration, as students and professionals learned to build their personal brands while keeping up with the industry trends. The grand finale of the conference was the General Session of “Perspectives from the C-Suite,” offering a glimpse into the minds of industry leaders. We had an absolute blast during Rick Postiglione's part of this session! Rick, who's the Chief Revenue Officer of Compass Group USA, shared some fantastic insights about trusting your instincts when it comes to hiring. We totally vibed with his employee-centric approach. Plus, did we mention he's a massive Pink Floyd fan? Well, Rick, you're in great company because so are we!

SHFM’s 2023 conference showcased innovation and sustainability, promising a bright future for the industry and fellow hospitality professionals. Our team can’t wait to attend more SHFM events in the future!