Original thinking and innovative strategies for success will take center stage when noted futurist and visionary Watts Wacker delivers a keynote speech during the 51st annual Multi-Unit Foodservice Operators conference on October 3 – 5 in Orlando, Florida.
Wacker will offer a solutions-oriented message titled, “Look Again – Fresh Perspectives for Tough Times” during the conference, which is produced by Nation's Restaurant News and takes place Oct. 3-5 at the Gaylord Palms Resort in Orlando, Fla.
MUFSO 2010 is built around the theme, “Mission Possible: New Strategies for Success.” Other highlights include panel sessions with leading operators on key industry issues, and a keynote address by former House speaker Newt Gingrich. Wacker's address is scheduled for Oct. 4.
“We are thrilled to have Mr. Wacker at MUFSO,” said NRN publisher Randall Friedman. “Attendees will quickly see why his ideas have helped scores of top corporations navigate the sea of change that is taking place in business today. Watts has helped some of the most powerful companies in the world see the future, and his keynote at MUFSO is sure to be an eye-opening experience for attendees.”
A lecturer, best-selling author, political commentator and social critic, Wacker is considered one of the most influential minds in modern business. He has been the futurist at think tank SRI International and spent 10 years as the resident futurist at the social research organization, Yankelovich Partners.
Thought to be one of this country’s best storytellers, Wacker is founder and director of FirstMatter LLC, where he has focused on creating a new kind of think tank. His first book, “The 500 Year Delta,” was an international bestseller that has been translated into 10 languages. His second book, “The Visionary’s Handbook,” is required reading at many of the world’s finest business schools. Both books were co-authored with Jim Taylor.
Wacker's recent work has included commentary on the nationally acclaimed “Marketplace” radio show and stories and essays for Fast Company, Scientific American and Architectural Record magazines. He and co-author Ryan Matthews are working on a book project, which studies myth and mythology's influences on modern life and business. Additionally, he is a contributor to the recent “Financial Times Handbook of Business Version 3.0.”
While at Yankelovich Partners, Wacker managed the pre-eminent trends prediction service in the U.S. for 10 years. His previous experience includes vice president of marketing for the Kenner division of Hasbro Inc., a research fellowship at The Institute for Constructive Capitalism, and ownership and operation of two radio stations in Corpus Christi, Texas.
Wacker received degrees from both Tulane University and The University of Texas in Austin. He resides in Westport, Connecticut with his wife and partner of 24 years and their two children.
For information about MUFSO and to register, call 212-756-5201 or visit www.mufso.com.
