Red Robin Gourmet Burgers Inc. has named Denny Marie Post to the position of senior vice president and chief marketing officer, officials said Monday.
Post replaces former CMO Susan Lintonsmith, who along with former chief financial officer Katie Scherping, left the company in mid July.
Post previously worked as a consultant for clients including Sara Lee, Lamb/Weston/ConAgra and Kerry Ingredients, the company said. Prior to that, she was senior vice president and CMO at T-Mobile USA.
Her foodservice experience includes prior roles as senior vice president of Global Beverage, Food and Quality for Starbucks Corp. and senior vice president and chief concept officer for Burger King Corp. She has also served in senior management positions at Yum! Brands Inc.
At Red Robin, Post will be responsible for the development and execution of brand strategies and product innovation, overseeing the company’s internal marketing, research and development and communications teams, as well as working with outside agencies.
Analysts saw the departure of Lintonsmith and Scherping as part of ongoing turnaround efforts for the casual-dining chain.
Dubbed Project RED, turnaround initiatives have included the launch of a loyalty program, an emphasis on boosting bar business and a menu overhaul.
Steve Carley, Red Robin’s chief executive, said, “Denny’s many years of experience creating high-performing marketing teams, driving innovation, leading product development and building world-class brands will be a great match in Red Robin’s efforts to strengthen our performance and make further progress on our long-term strategic plan.”
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