Luncheon Meeting

Friday, April 18, 2008

Building Concepts and Brands: "If we can, we will...."

First Watch was founded in 1983 on this simple concept. Today, First Watch Restaurants, Inc. is the largest privately owned, daytime-only restaurant company in the country. Headquartered in Bradenton, FL, and operating more than 76 restaurants in 11 states, First Watch offers something for everyone, from traditional breakfast, brunch and lunch favorites to their signature creations. Business or pleasure, First Watch takes pride in meeting the special needs of their customers.

Ken Pendery is a visionary in the restaurant business. He has created several restaurant concepts and has held numerous executive positions. Ken and Chief Marketing Officer Chris Tomasso will speak on concept building and marketing strategies that have led to the success of First Watch Restaurants.

About the Speakers

Kenneth L. Pendery, Jr., President and CEO

Kenneth L. Pendery, Jr., founder of First Watch Restaurants, Inc., is a restaurant industry veteran who has held numerous executive positions and has created several restaurant concepts. In his role as president and CEO of First Watch, Pendery provides strategic leadership to the company by working with the board of directors and management, and establishing long-range goals, strategies, plans and policies.

Previously, Pendery served as Regional Director for Cork N' Cleaver Restaurants. From 1979 to 1981, he was directly responsible for the development of the Le Peep and First Watch Restaurant companies from concept through construction. Pendery is a graduate of Indiana University, where he majored in finance.

Chris Tomasso, Chief Marketing Officer

Chris Tomasso, a 14-year restaurant marketing veteran, handles the development and execution of First Watch’s strategic marketing plans. He oversees the company’s marketing department and is directly responsible for launching a complete re-branding effort in 2007 that included a new brand positioning platform, equipped with a new company logo and tagline.

Previously, Tomasso served as Vice President of Marketing for Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. At Cracker Barrel, he handled the brand development, advertising, marketing, and public relations functions for the company. Tomasso also spent more than 10 years with Hard Rock Cafe International – where he served as Vice President of Worldwide Marketing.

Tomasso is a graduate of the University of Central Florida, with a degree in journalism and specialization in advertising and public relations.

When:
Friday, April 18, 2008

Where:
The Crowne Plaza - New Location This Month Only
I-71 & Pfeiffer

Time:
11:30 am - 12:00 - Registration & Networking
12:00 – 1:15 – Lunch and program

Cost:
AMA Members
$30 for Reservations made by April 15
$35 for Reservations made after April 15
AMA Student Members - $18

Non-Members
$40 for Reservations made by April 15
$45 for Reservations made after April 15

Pay at the door Visa/Mastercard, Amex, check or cash.

Cancellations must be made 48 hours in advance to avoid billing. To cancel your reservation, please call the AMA at 513.784.2373 or email info@cincinnatiama.org.

Menu: Angel hair pasta with chicken

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