Leading with Clarity: Lessons Learned on the Journey to CEO
A Members Only Luncheon
Speaker: Julie Fussner, CEO, Culver Franchising System, LLC
Tuesday, November 10 | 11:30 am - 1:00 pm | The Madison Club
Throughout her career, Julie Fussner has learned that leadership is built through thousands of decisions, conversations, challenges and opportunities to serve others. In this candid discussion, Julie will share her journey from corporate brand management to leading one of America's fastest-growing restaurant brands. She'll reflect on the leadership lessons that shaped her career, the challenges she's faced as a new CEO and the practices that help leaders create trust, clarity and alignment during times of growth and change. Attendees will leave with practical insights they can apply in their own careers and organizations.
About Our Speaker: Julie Fussner is the first woman to serve as Chief Executive Officer of Culver Franchising System, LLC, the franchisor of more than 1,100 Culver's restaurants across 26 states. Her appointment in 2025 marked a historic milestone for the brand and reflected her exceptional leadership, strategic insight and deep commitment to Culver's mission of genuine care. Julie joined Culver's in 2017 as Vice President of Marketing, bringing nearly two decades of experience in food consumer packaged goods, including leadership roles at Kraft Foods.
Throughout her career, Julie has demonstrated a unique ability to understand what drives people, how they feed themselves and their families, and what they value in a brand. Her leadership style is rooted in authenticity, integrity and a passion for people. As CEO, she continues to champion Culver's values of Midwest hospitality and purposeful growth, guiding the brand into its next chapter with bold vision and heartfelt care. Outside of Culver's, Julie and her husband, Don, have built a life in Wisconsin raising five boys and celebrating the joy of three grandchildren, a role she often says has taught her as much about leadership as any professional title.
Luncheon Choices:
- Grilled Chicken Breast, mascarpone herb whipped potato, roasted butternut squash and pumpkin, whole grain – chicken demi
- Butternut ravioli, brown butter roasted pumpkin, crispy brussels sprouts, maple – sage cream sauce, toasted walnuts
Registration: Retirees $38.00
Due to the luncheon space, this is a member only event.
Online Registration closes on Wednesday, November 4
