McAlister's hires new chief marketing officerMcAlister's hires new chief marketing officer

McAlister's Deli, the fast-casual sandwich chain owned by Atlanta-based Focus Brands Inc., has named Natalia Franco as chief marketing officer, the company said Tuesday.

The industry veteran will be responsible for marketing strategy and the evolution of the brand, the company said.

Natalia Franco

Photo: McAlister's Deli

"Natalia's experience leading iconic brands to exceptional growth will be instrumental as we continue to push the envelope on menu innovation, amplify digital marketing strategies and leverage the strengths of this great brand," said Joe Guith, president of McAlister's Deli, in a statement.

"Her leadership in this newly created role of CMO will help propel the brand forward,”Guith added, “and we are looking forward to the positive impact she will have on the brand."

In previous roles, Franco served as chief brand and strategy officer at California Pizza Kitchen and senior vice president of marketing and culinary for IHOP. Most recently, she launched her own brand marketing consulting group, BrandMark Global LLC.

"McAlister's is a relevant brand, friendly and casual, with fresh offerings that appeal to a broad set of consumers," Franco said. "I look forward to partnering with its dynamic leadership team and experienced franchisees to further develop McAlister's growth in the marketplace.”

McAlister’s brand has more than 400 restaurants in 28 states.

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