At the Table: The Business of Hospitality Today

Bruce Nelson is Founder of Tempo Hospitality Group and a fractional CFO specializing in restaurant and hospitality businesses. With more than 45 years of industry experience—including roles as owner, operator, and CFO—he brings a practical, operator-first perspective to financial strategy and technology adoption. Bruce works with multi-unit operators to align financial systems, operational workflows, and emerging technologies such as AI to improve decision-making, profitability, and scalability. He has been an early adopter of restaurant technology platforms, including Restaurant365, and advises clients on how to turn data into actionable insight rather than noise. He is the author of Restaurant Management: The Myth, the Magic, the Math and has served on the boards of Hospitality Minnesota and the Hospitality Technology Network.

Troy Reding is a seasoned hospitality leader and the visionary behind Ally Restaurants, the group responsible for acclaimed Twin Cities destinations including Holman’s Table and Rock Elm Tavern. With a career spanning nearly four decades, Troy has become a fixture in the Minnesota culinary scene, known for blending historic charm with modern hospitality. In 2018, Troy expanded his portfolio by opening Holman’s Table, located in the landmark terminal of the St. Paul Downtown Airport. Under his leadership, the restaurant has earned a reputation as a premier business-casual destination, offering a unique "jet-set" atmosphere paired with sophisticated American cuisine. Before founding Ally Restaurants in 2014, Troy honed his expertise through 20 years with Carlson Restaurants Worldwide (TGI Fridays) and served as the Vice President of Operations for the Blue Plate Restaurant Company. His deep operational knowledge has fueled the successful growth of his own brands, including two Rock Elm Tavern locations and the Rock Elm Rig food truck. Beyond the kitchen, Troy is a dedicated community advocate. He was named the 2019 Entrepreneur of the Year by the Twin West Chamber of Commerce and serves on the board of the North Memorial Health Foundation. He is also a proud supporter of local youth and community organizations, including Tree House and Homegrown Lacrosse. Troy remains committed to his "Ally" philosophy—building strong partnerships with his team, guests, and the communities he serves.

Cathy is the Managing Director of D’Amico Hospitality, where she leads the organization with a focus on growth, culture, and exceptional guest experiences. Over her 20-year tenure, she has helped expand the company to include 12 exclusive venues alongside a thriving off-premise catering operation, while overseeing some of the most high-profile events in the Twin Cities. Cathy is energized by building dynamic teams and thrives on the ever-changing nature of the industry, where no two events are the same. Under her leadership, D’Amico Hospitality has earned multiple International Live Events Association Star Awards, numerous Minnesota Bride honors including “Best Large Caterer,” and “Caterer of the Year” from the International Caterers Association. In 2023, she was named a “Notable Director in Hospitality” by Twin Cities Business.