AGENDA
Tuesday, April 14
All events will take place at People Inc. Event Center.
PRE-CONFERENCE ACTIVITIES (optional)
Pre-Conference Registration Opens
Client Liaison, Self-Operator and Integrated Facility Manager Session*
For Client Liaisons/Self-Operators/IFMs only
(No additional fee)
Client Liaison, Self-Operator and Integrated Facility Manager Session Lunch*
For Client Liaisons/Self-Operators/IFMs only
(No additional fee)
*Not sure which category best describes your position? Visit the SHFM website for more details.
CRITICAL ISSUES CONFERENCE
Grab your badge and go!
Session One | Navigating Efficiency and Resilience in a Shifting Global Economy
Phil Kirschner, Founder, PK Consulting
Maeve Webster, President, Menu Matters LLC
The future of workplace hospitality is being written in real time — and like all industries, it is not marked safe from the same economic pressures and dynamic demands of the world and today’s consumer. This dynamic session brings clarity to complexity by first zooming out to examine the broader forces shaping our industry, then zooming back in to uncover the practical implications for your organization.
Blending data-driven insights, economic intelligence and forward-thinking strategy, this session unpacks forces reshaping workplace hospitality today. From macroeconomic trends and cost pressures to evolving consumer behaviors and emerging menu shifts, you’ll gain a clear understanding of what’s driving demand — and where the real opportunities lie. Learn why nimble organizations can outperform during uncertainty and how to intentionally build cultures grounded in efficiency, resilience and innovation. Walk away energized, informed and ready to lead with agility in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Karen Lerman, Senior Program Manager, Google
AI isn’t the future of work — it’s already here. In this practical, hands-on session, you will gain a foundational understanding of AI and learn how to seamlessly integrate tools like NotebookLM, Gemini and LLM extensions into your daily work. You’ll discover how to:
- Save time and streamline project workflows by discovering how AI can optimize tasks like research, communication and decision-making.
- Enhance project execution by easily organizing to-do lists from the inbox and quickly incorporating stakeholder feedback into presentations.
- Strengthen influence by leveraging AI to improve negotiation skills and make more informed decisions.
To get this most out of this session, we encourage you to bring a laptop, tablet, or phone. This session will include interactive, hands-on elements.
Help shape CIC Session Two by answering this one question:
If I could have a magic wand and have AI Help me do one thing, what would it be?
Explore, connect and get inspired!
Visit our exhibitors — it’s the perfect way to spark conversations and grow your network.
Phil Kirschner, Founder, PK Consulting (Moderator)
Robert Gebhardt, Global Workplace Experience, AMER Lead at JLL
Stuart Gonsuron, Vice President, NAMR Project Lead, Amenity Services, JPMorganChase
Regine Hooper-Campbell, Global Hospitality Strategy Manager, Workplace Experience, Airbnb
Hospitality is built on human connection—yet many change initiatives focus on technology, tools, or processes first. This dynamic session takes a people-centered approach to change management, equipping leaders with practical strategies to engage teams, build trust and strengthen culture—turning change into a source of energy and momentum rather than fatigue. Through real-world examples, interactive discussion and proven frameworks, participants will leave inspired and equipped with actionable tools they can immediately use to elevate both the employee and guest experience.
Connect with fellow attendees in a relaxed, social atmosphere complete with drinks and hors d’oeuvres – a well-deserved celebration!
Elevate Your Voice: Build Influence, Confidence & Your Professional Edge
Join fellow young professionals (39 and younger) at SHFM’s Young Professionals Summit — taking place the day before the Critical Issues Conference. Your Summit registration also includes access to the SHFM New York Local.
Arriving early for CIC?
Join SHFM members and industry colleagues at the SHFM New York City Local the evening before CIC and kick off the conference together! You can register for both events at the same time when you register for CIC.
Thank You to Our Host
Restaurant Associates
