Join us for an electrifying journey through the intersection of technology and food service with Dawn Gillis, the visionary SVP and Chief Information Officer of Golden Corral. In this eye-opening podcast episode, Dawn pulls back the curtain on the digital transformation revolutionizing restaurants, sharing insights gained from decades of experience across retail and dining industries.
The conversation kicks off by exploring the fascinating evolution of convenience stores, where technology is blurring traditional boundaries. From EV charging stations creating new “dwell times” to fresh food innovations, Dawn reveals how smart businesses are reimagining customer experiences. But the real story emerges through her firsthand account of navigating the restaurant industry during the COVID-19 pandemic – a period that accelerated technological adoption at unprecedented speeds.
Dawn doesn’t just discuss technology; she provides a strategic roadmap for restaurant survival and growth. She candidly shares how brands can leverage AI, optimize back-of-house processes, and create more personalized customer interactions. Particularly fascinating are her insights into Golden Corral’s innovative approaches, like developing a unique group reservation system and expanding their to-go and catering offerings.
Cybersecurity emerges as a critical theme, with Dawn passionately explaining why data protection isn’t just an IT problem – it’s a fundamental business responsibility. Her message is clear: in today’s interconnected world, restaurants must take ownership of their technological ecosystems.
Beyond technical strategies, the podcast captures the human side of technological transformation. Dawn celebrates the creativity of restaurant workers who pivoted dramatically during challenging times, and reflects on the industry’s remarkable resilience.
For anyone curious about the future of dining, technology’s role in food service, or how innovative leaders are reshaping traditional business models, this episode is a must-listen. It’s more than a conversation – it’s a blueprint for technological adaptation in one of the world’s most dynamic industries.
Available on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | iHeartRadio
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