A new generation of operators, innovators, and culture-builders reimagine how quick-service brands grow, connect, and execute.
This year’s class of Young Leaders to Watch shows a QSR industry in the midst of rapid transformation. Restaurants are growing, becoming smarter, and more connected by execution. These rising talents are leading the charge by translating strategy into action and data into crucial decision-making.
What stands out the most is their range. From operations and analytics to marketing, franchising, and training, each leader brings a distinct perspective while sharing a common mindset rooted in collaboration, adaptability, and accountability. They are as comfortable navigating complexity as they are rolling up their sleeves alongside frontline teams.
These individuals prioritize people as much as performance, and they embrace technology without losing sight of hospitality. Together, they represent the next generation shaping the future of quick service. We have two of our very own on this list.
Giuseppe Schepisis – Corporate Trainer, Vicious Biscuit
Age: 24
Giuseppe Schepisi has quickly emerged as a standout leader at South Carolina – based brunch chain Vicious Biscuit. Since joining the brand in 2021, he advanced rapidly from team lead to assistant manager and, by 2022, was promoted to corporate trainer – a role in which he has had measurable impact on training systems, operational consistency, and team culture during a critical phase of the brand’s aggressive nationwide expansion.
Kate Byrd – Franchise Liaison, Vicious Biscuit
Age: 29
Kate Byrd has quickly become a driving force behind Vicious Biscuit’s franchise expansion, bringing a unique blend of operational expertise and systems-driven thinking to the brand. She joined the company in 2022 with a decade of frontline experience from brands like Chipotle Mexican Grill and Taco Boy. Eager to expand beyond operations, Bryd proactively sought a deeper understanding of the business, transitioning into an office administrator role where she worked closely with leadership on accounting, vendor coordination, and the internal systems supporting the company’s growth.
To read the full article and see the list of all 25 leaders, click here.