USA—Fast food franchise Pizza Hut has named Wendy’s former global CMO Carl Laredo head of its US operations effective June 3, 2024. 

In his new role, Loredo’s responsibilities will include driving the overall performance of the brand’s business in the US. He will report directly to Pizza Hut Division CEO Aaron Powell. 

Reacting to his appointment, Loredo said, “It is an honor to lead Pizza Hut’s US business and take this beloved brand forward for the next generation of customers.”

“I am eager to partner with Aaron and the leadership team, our best-in-class franchisees, and our talented team members around the country to unlock growth for this powerhouse brand.” 

Prior to this role, Loredo spent eight and a half years at Wendy’s, starting as vice president of brand marketing to his CMO role. He served as the company’s CMO in his last year at Wendy’s.  

During his tenure at Wendy’s, Loredo expanded the digital sales business, launched new product occasions and executed high-calibre marketing and content campaigns. 

He was previously associated with The Marketing Arm, part of Omnicom Media Group, where he served as vice-president of account services. 

The fast-food veteran will join Pizza Hut when the company is experiencing slow sales. 

Pizza Hut’s same-store sales in the US declined 6% in Q1 of 2024 compared to Q1 of 2023. 

The company closed 12% of its US locations in the past 3 years, the lowest performer among the big 4 pizza chains in the US. 

The company also welcomes Loredo at a time when it is onboarding AI technologies and streamlining its digital transformation. 

In Q1 of 2024, Pizza Hut integrated a new customer data insights system and the proprietary e-commerce platform for the Yum! Brand. 

Loredo’s successful experience helping fast food chains incorporate technologies is part of the reason behind his appointment. 

Pizza Hut CEO Aaron Powell said, “Carl comes to Pizza Hut with a strong track record of positioning brands for success and delivering results in highly competitive markets. He is adept at helping brands show up in novel and authentic ways at the right intersection of customer need and culture.” 

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