Inspire Brands-owned Buffalo Wild Wings has announced the appointment of Target Vice President Rita Patel as the chain’s new chief marketing officer, effective Sept. 14. Patel will be replacing Seth Freeman, who departed the Atlanta-based casual-dining sports-bar chain in June of this year.
Patel will oversee advertising, digital innovation, menu development and overall brand experience, and will report directly to Buffalo Wild Wings president Lyle Tick.
“Throughout her career, Rita has been known for her creative and strategic approach to building brands and engaging with consumers, while also demonstrating a strong drive for results,” Tick said in a statement. “Her unique experiences in consumer marketing for a variety of well-known global brands makes her a natural fit for fan-favorite Buffalo Wild Wings.”
Prior to joining Inspire Brands, Rita had multiple executive roles at Target, including her current role as vice president of brand management. She has also held leadership roles at MillerCoors and Wrigley and Beam Suntory.
Buffalo Wild Wings has 1,200 locations in 10 countries.
Contact Joanna Fantozzi at [email protected]
Follow her on Twitter: @JoannaFantozzi