Johnny Rockets has hired Joel Bulger as its chief marketing officer.
Most recently, Bulger was vice president of brand marketing for Moe’s Southwest Grill, and his 20-year career in the restaurant industry also includes senior marketing roles with Church’s Chicken, Darden Restaurants and Wendy’s.
Aliso Viejo, Calif.-based Johnny Rockets did not have a chief marketing officer before Bulger accepted the appointment. In his new role, he will oversee the hamburger chain’s field marketing, public relations, advertising strategy and agency relationships, new-product launches and social media efforts.
“We definitely took our time to make sure we had the best person for the job,” chief executive John Fuller said in a statement. “With Joel’s bold approach, proven skills and obvious enthusiasm, we look to him to help grow Johnny Rockets, in terms of both sales and unit growth. By keeping our brand top of mind and making sure it’s perceived as a premiere dining destination, I’m confident he will increase our appeal with both consumers and potential franchisees.”
Bulger began his career on the agency side with Fricks/Firestone Advertising in Atlanta, where his clients included United Healthcare and AFC Enterprises Inc.
“The high-quality, all-American food combined with the fun, classic atmosphere sets Johnny Rockets apart from other hamburger chains,” Bulger said in a statement. “I am eager to get involved and help the brand continue to thrive in growing markets and deliver on their promise as an escape from modern-day stress for all guests.”
Johnny Rockets, which is owned by an affiliate of private-equity group Sun Capital Partners Inc., includes more than 300 restaurants in the United States and 25 foreign markets.
