Exciting news! C-Sweet Chicago Event!
Chicago In-Person Networking Event
Thursday, March 20th
4:30 - 7:30 PM CT
Capgemini Chicago
333 W Wacker Dr., 4th Floor Room 4310, Chicago, IL 60606
✨Join us for a very engaging panel discussion with key executives in the Food and Beverage Industry!
Women executives are making significant strides in the food and beverage industry, and it’s a development that’s reshaping the landscape. With their fresh perspectives, innovative solutions, and passion for change, women are taking on leadership roles in a field that has traditionally been male dominated.
The rising success of women in food and beverage is not by chance. Women are bringing unique insights and fresh solutions to the table, including a strong focus on sustainability. Whether it’s through eco-friendly packaging or an increased emphasis on plant-based products, women leaders are setting a new standard for environmental responsibility.
Their dedication to creating positive change isn’t just about profits—it’s about making a lasting, meaningful impact on the world. As the industry continues to evolve, more women will rise to the top, driving innovation and shaping the future of food and beverage. Their mission-driven leadership, commitment to sustainability, and focus on diversity will undoubtedly shape the future, benefiting both consumers and employees. This is just the beginning, and the influence of women in the space will only continue to grow.
Free for Members; non-members $49.00
Meet the Panelists
Jennifer Conklin
Client Partner in Retail and Lead on the Grocery Portfolio at Capgemini
Jennifer Conklin is a Client Partner in Retail and the lead on the Grocery Portfolio at Capgemini. She has 20 years of experience in Retail, helping brands and retailers use technology to deliver better experiences and outcomes for their customers.
Previously, Jennifer was the Chief Customer Officer at a Chicago-based technology start up, UPshow. She has also led an eCommerce portfolio and was a Managing Director at a digital agency focused on brand development and immersive user-centered design solutions.
Jennifer is based in Chicago, has 2 strong teenaged daughters, spent 12 years as a Girl Scout Troop Leader, and loves to read (mostly fiction).
Hillary Wirtz
Sr. Director of Culture and Inclusion at Breakthru Beverage Group
Hillary Wirtz is a thoughtful, dynamic, and energetic fourth-generation owner of Breakthru Beverage Group (BBG). In her current role as Senior Director of Culture & Inclusion, she leads the strategy and execution of talent initiatives designed to cultivate an inclusive work environment where every individual feels valued, empowered, and inspired to reach their full potential. Throughout her career at BBG, Hillary has held various leadership roles across Sales, Learning & Development, and Community Relations, consistently driving initiatives that align with the company’s mission and values.
As a passionate advocate for fostering a thriving company culture, she believes that "a diverse mix of voices leads to better discussions, better decisions, and a better future for our company and the communities we serve." This commitment to inclusivity and empowerment is central to her leadership philosophy and the core of who she is as a leader.
Beyond her professional achievements, Hillary is deeply committed to making a difference in her community. She is actively involved in several charitable organizations, including Equality IL and No Kid Hungry, where she dedicates her time and energy to causes that align with her values of equity, inclusion, and service.
Mara Smith
Founder/CEO of Inspiro Tequila LLC
Mara Smith, a former attorney in Chicago, started drinking tequila when she was looking for a clean, gluten-free spirit that fit into her active lifestyle. She and her friends enjoyed the versatile, carb-free and zero sugar spirit but they were not drawn to the traditional offerings. For years, Mara searched for a tequila brand that was additive-free with a look, taste and aroma that appealed to her and that she could share with her friends and family and proudly display on her bar. That perfect tequila simply did not exist, so she decided to create one.
Blanca Roman
Director of Global Technology Agile Center of Excellence for McDonalds Corporation
Blanca is a Technology Delivery professional with over 15 years of experience in the technology, financial services, and restaurant quick-serve sectors. Blanca has spearheaded digital transformations, setting strategic directions for delivery through agile frameworks and processes.
Blanca has successfully delivered key integration and conversion initiatives, significantly impacting customer-facing solutions by implementing highly complex decisioning systems and marketing technologies. An advocate for equitable representation in the workplace, Blanca previously served as a Women Who Code Director for the Chicago Chapter, focusing on helping women excel in their tech careers.
As an authentic leader, Blanca meets individuals where they are, helping them tap into their full potential, elevating their strengths, and achieving their career aspirations. On a personal front, Blanca resides in the Saint Charles area, where she and her family are remodeling a farmhouse and learning the art of horsemanship.
Meet the Moderator
Jen Pfaff
Engagement Director | Principle | Delivery Executive - Cloud & Custom Applications - C&CA at Capgemini
Jen Pfaff is a Principal with Capgemini, one of the world’s largest IT consulting organizations. She is a senior IT leader with expertise in managing global teams, acquired over thirty years working with some of the world’s largest corporations, including Domino’s, Ford, McDonald’s, General Motors, and Kellogg’s.
Jen grew up in Tucson and earned a BSBA from the University of Arizona. After moving to Michigan, she earned an MBA from Oakland University. She served on the Board of the Michigan Council of Women in Technology for over 13 years.
Jen is married and lives in northern Michigan. She has two sons who both live in Chicago and enjoys trail running with her two Dobermans.
Sponsored by:
***Check your calendars and join us! All event fees are non-refundable.***
New to C-Sweet?
Are you a female executive at the Board, C-Suite, Director, or Vice President level in a Fortune 1000, middle market, or fast-growth company? C-Sweet is perfect for you.
C-Sweet is a dynamic global community of female executives dedicated to working with each other, as well as uplifting and empowering women in the workplace. Our mission is to create an environment fostering innovation, collaboration, and professional development for women in leadership positions.
Join us today and be part of a powerful movement redefining what it means to be a woman in business.
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