Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux on Wednesday announced Laurie Curtis as the restaurant company’s new chief marketing officer, effective Dec. 4.
Curtis, left, has worked in marketing for more than 25 years, most recently as vice president of marketing and menu innovation at Denny’s. Her responsibilities there included overseeing brand and field marketing, product development, communications, and insights, according to a press release. Curtis has also worked for Pizza Hut, TGI Fridays, and Domino’s.
“I am thrilled to join Walk-On’s at a time when people are craving a special dining experience,” she said in a statement. “I believe Walk-On’s has the food, ambience, and commitment to hospitality that truly sets this brand apart. My vision is to not only make Walk-On’s a household name but to help transform the brand into the icon we truly believe it can be. The exceptional team at Walk-On’s is laser focused on creating an unforgettable experience for our guests, and I am excited to be a part of the brand’s incredible legacy.”
The Baton Rouge, La.-based casual-dining chain said that Curtis’ “vision and dedication to excellence align seamlessly with Walk-On’s commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience for sports enthusiasts and food lovers alike.”
“As Walk-On’s continues to grow, Laurie’s rich background and expertise make her the perfect addition to our brand and executive leadership team,” said CEO Chris Dawson. “With Laurie at the helm of our marketing efforts, we are confident she will elevate our brand and help redefine the sports dining experience.”
Dawson was named chief executive in June of this year, succeeding Scott Taylor, who held the title for less than six months. He’s been shoring up his leadership team, having named Kendall Ware COO in August and Chris Porcelli chief financial officer and Jennifer Pecoraro-Striepling chief development officer in September.
According to his LinkedIn page, Walk-On’s previous CMO, Luke DeRouen, is now working at communications agency Zeno Group.
As of the end of last year, Walk-On’s had 71 units nationwide, and was growing; NRN’s Top 500 placed it as the sixth-largest sports bar in the U.S. by systemwide sales.