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Sam Oches
Group Director, Editorial at Informa's Restaurant & Food Group
Professional Background
Sam Oches is an esteemed figure in the food service journalism landscape, currently serving as the Editorial Director of Informa's Restaurant & Food Group. Under his leadership, the group oversees several highly respected publications including Nation's Restaurant News, Restaurant Hospitality, Supermarket News, and Food Management. With a keen understanding of the restaurant and foodservice industry, Sam has positioned these publications as vital resources for industry professionals, offering insightful analysis, trends, and news to keep readers informed and engaged.
Before joining Informa, Sam held the position of Editorial Director at Food News Media, where he oversaw the publication of influential magazines like QSR and FSR. His tenure at QSR magazine is especially notable—where he served in various capacities including Editor, Managing Editor, and Associate Editor, demonstrating his commitment and expertise in food service journalism and content creation.
Sam’s commitment to excellence in editorial leadership was recognized during his time as president of the International Foodservice Editorial Council (IFEC) and as a board member of the American Society of Business Publication Editors (ASBPE). His influence extends beyond editorial leadership; he is a trusted voice in the foodservice sector and his insights are frequently sought after by major media outlets.
Education and Achievements
Sam Oches graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism, specializing in Magazine Journalism from the reputable E.W. Scripps School of Journalism at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. This robust educational foundation provided him with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the highly competitive field of journalism, particularly within the niche of food service.
Throughout his career, Sam has not only contributed to various publications but has also played a crucial role in fostering a community among food industry editors and writers through his leadership positions in professional organizations. Being actively involved in the IFEC and ASBPE showcases his dedication to enhancing standards within the industry and his commitment to mentoring emerging talent in foodservice media.
Achievements
Sam's work has earned him various accolades and recognition, making him a respected figure among his peers in foodservice journalism. His insights and perspectives on the food industry have been featured in prominent national media, including the New York Times, USA Today, National Public Radio, and CNBC, illustrating his importance as a voice of authority. In addition to leading several well-regarded publications, he has established a reputation for delivering content that resonates with industry professionals and contributes positively to discussions about food and restaurant trends.
Personal Life
Living in Durham, North Carolina, with his beloved wife and two children, Sam balances a fulfilling family life with his passionate career. In addition to his extensive professional achievements, he is dedicated to shaping the future of food service journalism while nurturing young talent and advocating for quality journalism in the food industry.
Highlights
More than once I've called Texas Roadhouse the "Chick-fil-A of casual dining." Why? Because this brand enjoys explosive success not necessarily by rolling out whiz-bang innovations all the time, but by being high-performing, dependable, and consistent in the communities it serves. By being great at what it does over and over again, Texas Roadhouse became the No. 2 casual-dining chain in 2023 and is knocking on the door of No. 1.
In that spirit, all of us at Nation's Restaurant News are thrilled to name Texas Roadhouse the 2024 Brand Icon. This award — powered by The Coca-Cola Company — recognizes Texas Roadhouse's ability to subtly innovate its operations while providing great experiences to its guests again and again.
We'll have plenty more content on Texas Roadhouse in the coming months, but in the meantime, register for CREATE to hear directly from CEO Jerry Morgan on what makes this brand such an industry icon.
Join us in Nashville Oct. 9-11 for free by registering here: https://lnkd.in/dgavXfc
CREATE: The Future of Foodservice Leigh Anne Zinsmeister Joanna Fantozzi Bret Thorn Ron Ruggless Alicia Kelso Joe Donnelly Monique Monaco-Levy, CMP Susan Szymanski Jason Bogovic Chris Keating Marcus Viscidi Christi Ravneberg Barbara Poremba Rebecca Pearson, MBA Sophia Kreinik Consuelo Murillo (Rodriguez)
https://lnkd.in/efWc8N5v
A new part of our upcoming CREATE Experience in Palm Springs is the Investment Summit, bringing together restaurant investors and emerging brand leaders for education and networking — at a literal friggin' summit (Mt. San Jacinto). I'm excited to announce our investor roster to date for the Summit:
👉 Savory Fund 👉 Full Course 👉 CapitalSpring 👉 Franchise Equity Partners 👉 NewSpring 👉 DOM Food Group 👉 Aegis Group Partners, LLC
We're also hosting two educational sessions for emerging restaurant leaders that will help accelerate their expansion journey:
💰 Getting Your House In Order: Andrew K. Smith and Sarah Lockyer discuss what emerging brand leaders need to do to prepare their organizations for growth. 💰 What Investors Want: A panel with Lauren Fernandez, Jim Balis, and Satya Ponnuru sharing how brands can position themselves for a successful capital raise.
We're thrilled to partner with Savory Fund and The Elliot Group on this first Investment Summit, and to welcome Golenbock Eiseman Assor Bell & Peskoe LLP and Entegra as sponsors!
Are you an investor who wants to join? DM me. Are you a brand who wants to attend? There are a few spots left 👉 https://lnkd.in/gE5nzCUS
Joe Donnelly Monique Monaco-Levy, CMP Barry A. Herbst Christi Ravneberg Jason Bogovic Susan Szymanski Matt Hebberd Leigh Anne Zinsmeister Joanna Fantozzi Alicia Kelso Ron Ruggless Bret Thorn Holly Petre CREATE: The Future of Foodservice #palmsprings #event #restaurant #investment #finance #capitalinvestment #createtogether
https://lnkd.in/gnXgZZJc
