From the Other Side of the Table: Two Former Operators Talk Healthcare's Next Chapter

During this Coffee Talk, Brian Schleper (Singer Equipment Company) and Dan Ellnor (Cres Cor) discuss today's evolving healthcare foodservice landscape. Drawing on years of operational leadership before transitioning to the vendor and dealer side of the industry, Brian and Dan offer a unique perspective on the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping both acute care and senior living dining.


This facilitated conversation examines workforce shortages, changing patient and resident expectations, technology adoption, equipment innovation, and the growing demand for operational flexibility. This discussion focuses on practical lessons learned from both sides of the table and how collaboration between operators, dealers, and manufacturers can drive better outcomes.

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  • Accreditation: .5 CEU - ANFP
  • Duration: 30 minutes
Key Learning Objectives
  • Identify the top operational trends impacting acute care and senior living foodservice over the next three to five years.
  • Explore practical strategies for addressing labor, consistency, and service challenges through collaborative partnerships.
  • Gain insight into how former operators now serving on the dealer and manufacturer side approach problem-solving differently to better support healthcare foodservice teams.

This Coffee Talk is exclusively sponsored and presented by

Coffee Talk Recording & Certificate

Meet the Speakers

Daniel Ellnor, SNS, PCQI
CresCor

Dan Ellnor is a dynamic leader in foodservice equipment sales and marketing, specializing in K-12 school nutrition, healthcare, and institutional foodservice operations. As the Central Regional Sales Manager for Cres Cor. He provides sales representatives, dealers, and manufacturers with expert training and product knowledge, driving market growth and expanding brand presence. Prior to joining Cres Cor, Daniel spent nearly two decades transforming foodservice operations at Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) in Louisville, KY. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University, SNS credential from the School Nutrition Assoc. and executive training from Georgetown University, He served on the School Nutrition Association’s Board of Directors from 2023 to 2025 and has been actively involved in industry advisory boards and committees nationwide. Daniel continues to drive impactful changes in foodservice sales and operations, ensuring customers receive cutting-edge solutions that enhance efficiency, safety, and quality in meal service.

Brian Schleper, CDM, CFPP 
Singer Equipment

Brian is a Healthcare Specialist with Singer Equipment Company, bringing more than 30 years of leadership experience in healthcare and foodservice operations. As a Certified Dietary Manager (CDM, CFPP), ServSafe Trainer and Proctor, and President of the New Jersey Chapter of the Association for Nutrition & Foodservice Professionals (ANFP), Brian is passionate about supporting healthcare and senior living professionals through education, operational excellence, and strong industry partnerships. His career includes leadership roles with Morrison Healthcare and Sodexo, where he developed expertise in foodservice operations, procurement, regulatory compliance, and customer experience. Today, he works closely with hospitals, long-term care communities, schools, and commercial organizations, providing consultative solutions in equipment, smallwares, and operational support. Known for his relationship-first approach, Brian is committed to helping organizations improve efficiency, enhance resident and patient satisfaction, and build long-term success. He enjoys mentoring industry professionals, speaking at educational events, and giving back to the foodservice community through volunteer leadership.


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