Smashburger announced that it has a new chief marketing officer.
The fast-casual restaurant brand has appointed Kate Savelli to the top marketing position. Savelli brings more than 20 years of experience and will lead brand, consumer, menu, and partnership strategies, Smash Burger said.
Savelli joins Smashburger after four years at Bagel Brands where she served as director of brand and performance marketing, She also held marketing leadership roles at Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen and Darden Restaurants.
“Kate is a dynamic marketing leader with a strong track record of building brands, driving innovation, and powerful storytelling,” said Jim Sullivan, CEO of Smashburger. “Her strategic mindset and passion for the guest make her an outstanding addition to our leadership team as we continue to evolve the Smashburger brand and build on strong gains in average daily sales.”
“Smashburger is a brand with deep DNA and an even deeper commitment to quality that delivers flavor that can’t be replicated – not at home or in a drive-thru,” said Savelli. “The smash sear that started it all, the signature burger blend, the ingredient combinations that bring craft to every bite – these are a compelling combination, but with the sweet spot price point, it becomes irresistible. And still, most consumers don’t realize how much more there is to explore beyond the burger. That’s a powerful brief for a marketer and I’m here to make sure more people discover it, both within the markets we currently operate and those on the horizon.”
Smashburger also announced that it has named Theresa Vitale as director of non-traditional franchise development and Jack Reed as vice president of western operations.
Smashburger reported that it has 12 openings set for this year with the addition of Vitale and Reed expected to support further growth. Vitale previously held positions at Inspire Brands, Caribou Coffee, and Starbucks while Reed joins Smashburger from Bar Louie and Steak ‘n’ Shake.
The burger restaurant is a subsidiary of Jollibee Foods Corporation and operates 184 locations in 29 states and six countries.
For information about franchise opportunities with Smashburger, visit https://smashburger.com/franchise-opportunity.
