Schlotzsky’s Names Mark Mears as CMO
Classic Sandwich Chain Starts 2014 with New Leadership Direction
AUSTIN – Schlotzsky’s, home of The Original® round-toasted sandwich, today announces the appointment of Mark A. Mears to Chief Marketing Officer for the growing fast casual restaurant chain.
In his new role, Mears will oversee the direction of the marketing division including the strategic management of Schlotzsky’s marketing and creative services departments, along with directing brand promotions, advertising, creative design, menu tests and much more.
“We are excited to have a proven and respected leader like Mark join the Schlotzsky’s executive team,” said Kelly Roddy, President of Schlotzsky’s. “With years of experience in marketing leadership and the restaurant industry, Mark will bring expertise and strategic insight to marketing activities and outreach of the Schlotzsky’s brand.”
With nearly three decades of experience, Mark Mears is a visionary business leader with a significant track record of building shareholder value and driving innovation among world-class, high profile brands. Mears brings to his new role as Chief Marketing Officer of Schlotzsky's a wealth of relevant brand building experience working for/with some of the world's most recognized and beloved brands including PepsiCo/Pizza Hut, McDonald's, Frito-Lay, JCPenney, Blimpie, NBC/Universal and The Cheesecake Factory. Mears most recently served as the President and Chief Concept Officer of Mimi’s Café where he led its brand repositioning efforts, new menu development and the successful execution of its Mimi's Bakery, Cafe & Bistro new concept test.
Prior to that, he was SVP/Chief Marketing Officer for The Cheesecake Factory, Inc. where he led strategic marketing efforts to build all brands within its portfolio including The Cheesecake Factory, Grand Lux Cafe and RockSugar Pan Asian Kitchen. Throughout his career, Mears has also served in client service leadership positions within top global Integrated Marketing Communications firms such as Bozell, Jacobs, Kenyon & Eckhardt, Leo Burnett, DDB Promotions and Euro RSCG Retail. Mears has also been very active in the Promotion Marketing Association, serving in a variety of leadership roles including Chairman of the organization.
“Under the direction of Kelly Roddy, Schlotzsky’s recently revamped business has solidified the brand’s presence in the industry and I welcome the opportunity to have a hand in taking the company to the next level of growth,” said Mark Mears, Chief Marketing Officer of Schlotzsky’s. “I am thrilled to join a company that offers a unique and differentiated menu featuring top quality products and consistently high satisfaction to its loyal guests for more than 40 years.”
With more than 350 locations worldwide, Schlotzsky’s executive team will continue to drive momentum through 2014 by aggressively targeting consumers in both established and underdeveloped markets throughout Texas and around Denver, Kansas City, Nashville and Tampa. Schlotzsky’s is also seeking opportunities for expansion in untapped markets around the country including Charlotte, Miami, Raleigh, and St. Louis.
For more information regarding the Schlotzsky’s franchise opportunity, visit http://www.schlotzskysfranchising.com/ or call 800-846-BUNS.
About Schlotzsky’s
Since 1971, Schlotzsky's has been the home of The Original® toasted sandwich. The menu has evolved with customers' tastes to include the highest quality sandwiches, pizzas, salads, and soups available today. With more than 350 locations worldwide, Schlotzsky's is the fast-casual choice for a quick, healthful, and fresh dining experience. Schlotzsky’s is enjoyed around the world, with restaurants in Azerbaijan, South Africa, and Turkey. Schlotzsky’s is owned by FOCUS Brands Inc.®, the franchisor and operator of more than 3,300 Carvel®, Cinnabon®, Schlotzsky’s®, Moe’s Southwest Grill® and Auntie Anne’s® locations and Seattle’s Best Coffee® on certain military bases and in international markets. For more information, visit www.Schlotzskys.com.
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