Improving the Guest & Employee Experience
Union Square Hospitality Group’s ethos for technology and innovation aligns closely with what she’s most passionate about.
“I believe technology should enhance both the employee and guest experience, helping guests feel more connected to their dining experience while also improving the way employees work. To me, the best innovations are the ones that remove friction and streamline processes, allowing employees to focus more on their craft rather than administrative burdens,” she says.
One collegue describes White as “a changemaker who brings stakeholders along the journey to foster excitement, rather than fear, about digital transformation.”
One standout project: launching next-day pay for employees. “Improving financial independence and flexibility within the hospitality industry is so important for improving the employee experience and overall retention,” White says. “This initiative required deep cross-functional collaboration, process overhauls, and a commitment to advocating for what’s best for our people. Seeing it come to life and knowing it makes a difference in employees’ day-to-day lives is something I’m incredibly proud of,” White says.
Looking Ahead
White is excited about the potential for AI to elevate personalized hospitality—like remembering a guest’s wine preferences.
“As the public becomes more exposed to AI, their expectations will evolve. Instead of looking up specific restaurant names, guests will increasingly rely on AI-driven search and chatbots to find options that fit their needs, like, ‘a romantic restaurant near Union Square with vegan options at 6:30 PM on Friday for two.’ Right now, a search like that returns scattered, generalized results. In the future, I foresee technology streamlining this process, making it easier for guests to find exactly what they’re looking for,” White predicts.
Paying it Forward
Mentorship as a mentor and a mentee has played a significant role in shaping White’s career.
“Mentorship is about creating space for others to grow, feel valued, and push beyond what they thought was possible. I’m grateful to those who have done that for me and honored to do the same for others.
“I’ve been fortunate to coach and teach throughout my career, and I truly believe that you learn so much more by teaching,” White says. “Mentoring others has pushed me to lead with empathy and an open mind, adapt to different learning styles, refine how I communicate, and constantly evolve in how I support and work with different people.”
On Recognition
Receiving the Rising Star Award is more than a milestone, it’s validation she’s on the right path. “ I took a leap of faith to find my place in the hospitality and restaurant industry, not knowing exactly where it would lead. Being recognized so early in my journey reaffirms that I’m right where I’m meant to be, making a meaningful impact in a space I’m deeply passionate about,” she says.
The Top Women in Restaurant Technology Awards and Rising Star Awards, sponsored by Milagro, were presented at MURTEC on March 11. Nominations for the 2026 Top Women in Restaurant Technology and the Rising Star in Restaurant Technology will open December 1.
