Karen Willison

• First taste of restaurant work came at 15, waiting tables at a Steak & Ale.

• By 1993, had landed the post of marketing director for the Mexican division of Brinker International

• Sipped the competition's suds as marketing VP for Rock Bottom Restaurants from 1996-99.

• Has served as president of LSM Solutions Network, a marketing consulting company.

• Won 1992 Woman of Distinction Award from Roundtable for Women in Foodservice.

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