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Emily Knight

Emily Knight


President and Chief Executive Officer


Dallas, Texas, United States



Professional Overview
Emily Knight is an accomplished executive with extensive experience in the education and restaurant industries. As the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Texas Restaurant Association, she leverages her strategic leadership and operational expertise to drive growth and innovation within the dynamic food service sector.

Experience Summary

Current Role
As the President and CEO of the Texas Restaurant Association since 2019, Emily is responsible for overseeing the organization's strategic direction, policy advocacy, and member services. Under her leadership, the Association has significantly expanded its reach, fostering collaboration among industry stakeholders and championing initiatives that enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of Texas' vibrant restaurant landscape.

Career Progression
Prior to her current role, Emily held several senior leadership positions within the Laureate International Universities network, serving as the President of Kendall College and the Vice President of Global Enrollment and Operations. She also gained valuable experience as the Managing Director at Study Group and the CEO of New England University, LLC at Academic Partnerships. Throughout her career, Emily has demonstrated a proven track record of driving organizational growth, improving operational efficiency, and cultivating diverse partnerships.

Academic Background
Emily holds a Bachelor's degree from Pearson Education, where she also served in various leadership roles, including Vice President of Marketing and Sales Strategies and Vice President of Channel Sales and Business Development.

Areas of Expertise
  • Strategic planning and execution

  • Organizational transformation and change management

  • Education and training program development

  • Revenue growth and market expansion

  • Stakeholder engagement and collaboration

  • Policy advocacy and government relations


Professional Impact
Under Emily's leadership, the Texas Restaurant Association has become a recognized voice for the state's dynamic food service industry, championing initiatives that enhance workforce development, promote sustainability, and drive economic prosperity. Her unwavering commitment to innovation and her ability to navigate complex regulatory environments have positioned the Association as a trusted partner for its members and a respected advocate for the industry at large.

Conclusion
With her extensive background in the education and restaurant sectors, Emily Knight is well-equipped to guide the Texas Restaurant Association through the evolving landscape of the food service industry. Her strategic vision, operational expertise, and collaborative approach have positioned her as a highly influential leader, poised to drive sustainable growth and elevate the profile of the Texas restaurant community.