Ryan Russell is a seasoned hospitality operations and communications leader with more than 12 years of industry experience. Since joining SPB Hospitality in 2021 as Senior Manager of Strategic Sales, he has advanced through multiple leadership roles and now serves as Chief of Staff, reporting directly to Chairman and CEO G.J. Hart. In his role, Ryan works closely with SPB’s leadership team to strengthen cross-functional collaboration, enhance company culture and support strategic initiatives across the organization’s portfolio of upscale and polished casual dining brands. He also continues to oversee corporate communications, public relations strategy and internal communications, helping drive alignment across brands while supporting operational excellence and guest experience initiatives.
Ryan has led several of SPB’s community engagement and cause marketing efforts, including the HOPE Program, partnerships with Gift A Meal and K9s for Warriors, and charitable initiatives through the SPB Foundation. Under his leadership, SPB expanded programs that have provided thousands of meals to local food banks and supported service dog training for veterans. His background spans restaurant, hotel and event operations, strategic sales, marketing and communications, giving him a broad operational perspective and deep understanding of hospitality leadership.
In 2024, Ryan was recognized as one of FSR magazine’s 40 Under 40 Rising Stars for his contributions to communications, community engagement and operational excellence.
Whether opening unit No. 2 or 200, the real test of a brand is whether its identity holds as it grows. This session digs into how emerging and scaling concepts protect their core DNA while expanding into new markets, new formats, and new guest expectations. We’ll unpack the “portability” question (where does your concept truly fit?), and how to localize without losing yourself. From menu tweaks to design flexes to franchise vs. corporate growth paths, operators will share where they invest time, money, and energy to scale with intention.
