Vice President of Marketing & Innovation

A&W Restaurant - Lexington, KY

Full-time - Senior

Lexington, KY

Gasoline Stations and Fuel Dealers

About the position

The Vice President of Marketing & Innovation at A&W Restaurants, Inc. is a strategic leadership role focused on amplifying the brand's legacy while driving growth and innovation. This position is responsible for developing comprehensive marketing, advertising, and product development strategies aimed at increasing same-store sales and opening new profitable restaurants. The VP will collaborate with various teams and maintain relationships with the National A&W Franchisee Association, ensuring alignment with the company's One-Team philosophy and fostering an inclusive work environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop top-line marketing strategies to grow brand awareness, same-store sales, and new unit development.
• Create short and long-term brand strategies, including national sales events and local store marketing.
• Leverage data-driven insights to guide strategic recommendations.
• Monitor market trends, customer feedback, and competitors to identify opportunities for product innovation.
• Deliver upon innovation strategies surrounding menu mix, new product offerings, and packaging enhancements.
• Develop the Marketing department to support cross-functional teams with their marketing needs.
• Serve as a key member of the Executive Committee, providing insights for organizational decisions.
• Maintain positive relationships with the NAWFA Board, offering guidance and recommendations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to accomplish strategic initiatives.
• Manage relationships with key marketing vendor partners.

Requirements

• 10+ years of progressive marketing experience, including brand management and consumer insights.
• Bachelor's Degree in marketing, public relations, communications, business administration, or related field.
• Significant budget management experience.
• Multiple years of department leadership experience.
• Marketing experience specific to restaurant and food service.
• Proficient in MS Office suite.

Nice-to-haves

• Master's Degree
• 10+ years in the Restaurant Industry, specifically Quick Service Restaurants.