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About

The Chef Assembly is a platform that brings global hospitality professionals together in meaningful dialogue on topics that shape the future of the restaurant industry. Formerly known as The Chef Conference, the event has created an inclusive and diverse space for the restaurant community to gather and openly engage for over a decade. Founder Mike Traud has long believed in the power of one room, where both industry veterans and new voices can experience organic and unscripted conversations, share best practices and nurture long-lasting relationships. Dedicated to forging connections and sharing new perspectives, The Chef Assembly has expanded its reach from Philadelphia to Los Angeles and New York; uplifting its host city by offering unrivaled culinary experiences and collaborations with top chefs from around the world.

FOUNDER & 
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Mike Traud

Mike Traud, JD, Ed.D., MBA is the Founder/Executive Director of The Chef Conference. Traud has long had a passion for the restaurant industry, leading him through careers as an attorney, chef, and educator. Traud cooked in the kitchens of Osteria, Vetri, and Zeppoli before transitioning to education teaching Hospitality Law. During his career in education, Traud was the chair and founder of The Philly Chef Conference (2013-2023) and associated events which brought together industry and education and hosted such restaurant industry luminaries as Massimo Bottura, Mashama Bailey, and Will Guidara as well as the elite food journalists, James Beard Award winners, Food & Wine Best New Chefs and top hospitality professionals.