Articles
March 01, 2023

Women’s History Month 2023

Leaders press importance of mentoring and belief in one’s own abilities.
Group of women
Each year we honor Women’s History Month with profiles of professionals who excel in myriad leadership roles in the restaurant and foodservice industry. From operating the businesses outright to orchestrating menu development to overseeing everything from human resources, finances, food safety, and legal counsel, every aspect of the restaurant business benefits from the strong leadership they provide.

This year we spotlight the achievements of the Chief Human Resources Officer of a global travel foodservice conglomerate, General Counsel of a national dinner-house brand, and Vice President of Culinary Innovation for one of the largest quickservice chicken brands in America. They discuss how they evolved into their leadership roles, and what they’ve learned throughout their careers. 

Sharing their stories and perspectives are Amy Alarcon of Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Laura E. FitzRandolph of HMSHost Corp., and Lisa Gressel of P.F. Chang’s China Bistro. All three offer insights into what makes them successful, and how other women can achieve similar and, perhaps, greater positions in the industry. 
  • Amy Alarcon Headshot

    Amy Alarcon

    Vice President of Culinary Innovation, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen

  • Laura FitzRandolph Headshot

    Laura E. FitzRandolph

    Executive Vice President/Chief Human Resources Officer, HMSHost Corp.

  • Lisa Gressel Headshot

    Lisa Gressel

    General Counsel/Chief Human Resources Officer, P.F. Chang’s