Chipotle Mexican Grill said former Burger King and Activision Blizzard executive Fernando Machado will join the Newport Beach-based chain as chief brand officer, effective June 1.
He replaces Chris Brandt, the chain’s longtime marketing guru, who left unexpectedly in January.
Machado spent seven years as the global chief marketing officer at Restaurant Brands International, the parent company of Popeyes and Burger King. Prior to leading RBI’s marketing, he spent several years at Burger King, where he held the roles of head of brand marketing and global chief marketing officer.
He left RBI in 2021.
“We are thrilled to welcome Fernando to Chipotle’s leadership team,” Chipotle CEO Scott Boatwright said in an April 27 statement. “His proven track record in building iconic brands, driving category-defining innovation, and leading customer-centric marketing strategies positions him to elevate our brand, deepen guest loyalty, highlight the value of our real food, and accelerate our long-term growth.”
Stephanie Perdue, who was serving as interim chief marketing officer, has been promoted to senior vice president of brand marketing.
For more details, read the May 4 edition of the Business Journal.
