From Accounting to Tech-Driven Innovation: Cynthia Loescher Receives Top Women in Restaurant Technology Award
Cynthia Loescher, VP of Information Technology, Golden Chick was presented with the Top Women in Restaurant Technology Innovator Award at MURTEC 2025: Experience Matters.
Loescher began her career as an accountant at Fossil Watches where she upgraded accounting systems and built reports to streamline financial operations.
“This sparked my passion for technology-driven innovation,” she says, “which led me to drive major technology enhancements at companies like Interstate Batteries and Whataburger.”
Today, Loescher leads the team of IT staff to support the corporate employees of under the Golden Tree Restaurants umbrella. Loescher is not only a technology leader but also has prior experience as a franchisee. “I bring a unique dual perspective—understanding both operational challenges and tech-driven solutions,” she says.
“Having witnessed firsthand how outdated systems hinder operations, I’ve dedicated my career to leveraging technology to eliminate inefficiencies and optimize business performance.”
In her five years at Golden Chick, Loescher and her team have added new drive-thru timers, kiosks, media walls, a unified commerce platform, AI-driven kitchen solutions and direct delivery integrations, to name a few. Behind the scenes, cybersecurity continues to be a priority. Her colleagues say she has swiftly implemented tactical technological advancements and focused on much-needed innovation for the brand: “Cynthia’s creative thinking, problem-solving and ability to bring goals to life has played a major role in Golden Chick’s success.”
Driving Operational Efficiency
Loescher is keen on leveraging AI to drive operational efficiency, enhance customer experiences, and create scalable solutions for businesses. Throughout her career, she has focused on system integration, automation and business intelligence in the restaurant, hospitality and retail industries. “Implementing ERP systems, streamlining digital ordering platforms, and enhancing cybersecurity measures have been some of the most rewarding aspects of my work,” she says. “I thrive on finding innovative ways to bridge technology with business strategies to deliver measurable growth and operational improvements. Leveraging data for strategic decision-making ... empowers operators to work smarter, not harder."
One of her proudest accomplishments? Leading Golden Chick’s system-wide integration with online delivery platforms—a move that generated over $17 million in new revenue within the first year, with projections of $25 million by 2025.
“This initiative required strategic planning, cross-functional collaboration, and rapid tech deployment to deliver a seamless experience for both customers and franchisees,” she recalls.
The Future of Restaurant Tech
Looking ahead, Loescher sees a fast-evolving industry driven by automation and personalization.“AI-driven inventory management and predictive analytics will transform how restaurants operate, reducing waste and optimizing supply chains. Additionally, the integration of self-service kiosks, mobile ordering, and personalization through machine learning will redefine customer experience. I see the industry heading towards seamless, tech-driven operations, where efficiency, sustainability, and personalization play a critical role," Loescher says.
Mentorship Matters
Mentorship has been instrumental in her career. Industry leaders like former Wyndham Hotels executive and author, Cary Broussard, and her mother, a Six Sigma Black Belt project manager, shaped her perspective on strategic leadership and empowering women in the workplace. At her prevoius workplace, she taught women's leadership classes, helping professionals build confidence and leadership skills.
“As a mentor, I’m passionate about supporting the next generation—especially women, including my daughters—to excel in their careers ... Seeing others grow, innovate and succeed is one of the most rewarding aspects of my career.”
Reflecting on winning the 2025 Top Women in Restaurant Technology Innovator Award, Loescher says, “Winning this award is an incredible honor and a testament to the dedication and innovation of the teams I’ve worked with. It represents the power of collaboration, strategic vision, and technology-driven progress.”
Loescher credits Golden Chick owner Mark Parmerlee for his supporting bold transformative initiatives. “ This recognition reaffirms my commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology in the restaurant sector and beyond,” 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.