Richard Schneider – Areas USA
Richard is a top-performing hospitality executive credited with combining brand operations and marketing expertise to deliver substantial revenue growth in highly competitive business markets. He currently serves as the Chief Operating and Development Officer of Areas USA, responsible for the company’s growth, operations and leading its business development and operations team to identify, attract and establish new client relationships in the travel hospitality business. Richard is also responsible for government affairs, community engagement, strategic partnerships, and retail strategy.
While Richard is a highly competent mechanic of day-to-day execution, at his core he is a true culinarian and helped redefine Areas’ culinary culture and strategy. Richard developed many strong culinary relationships across the country in multiple verticals to help design award winning concepts. He utilizes his expertise and relationships to help foster a culture of excellence and empowerment, with a genuine mentorship approach to leadership.
Before joining Areas USA in 2020, Richard served as Executive Vice President/COO and Head of Foodservice for Spectra responsible for our day-to-day food-related operations across 243 Spectra food venues and the operations of Brulee Catering. Previously, he was also COO of Delaware North’s Sportservice, COO of Delaware North’s airport food and retail business and Vice President of Hospitality and Guest Services, Gaming and Entertainment. He also held executive positions with Midwest Gaming and Entertainment, Caesars Entertainment, and MGM Entertainment.
Awards
- 2025 IFMA Silver Plate for Travel Hospitality
Board Positions:
- 2025 Chairman of the National Restaurant Association Board of Directors
- 2024 Vice Chair of the National Restaurant Association Board of Directors
- Board of Trustees for the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation
Board Member:
- Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association Board of Directors
- Trustee of FRLA Education Foundation as a Trustee
- Texas Restaurant Association Board of Directors
- Texas Restaurant Foundation Board of Trustees
- New Castle County Financial Advisory Council Board Member
- Board of Governors of New River Technical College (West Virginia)
- CORE Board Member – which supports restaurant families when they are in need.