Brinker International Appoints Mike Wesley as Vice President of Marketing for Maggiano's Little Italy

Rhea-AI Summary

Brinker International has appointed Mike Wesley as Vice President of Marketing for Maggiano's Little Italy. Wesley brings nearly 15 years of industry experience, joining after a 14-year tenure at Yum! Brands where he served as VP of Brand Marketing for KFC U.S. This appointment follows recent leadership additions including President Dominique Bertolone and VP of Innovation and Growth Chef Anthony Amoroso. In his new role, Wesley will focus on amplifying the Maggiano's brand and driving key marketing and promotional strategies as the restaurant chain enters its next era of Italian American dining.

Positive

• Strategic leadership expansion with experienced industry veteran from major restaurant chain (KFC)
• Strengthening of executive team following recent senior appointments
• Focus on brand evolution and growth initiatives

Negative

• None.

News Market Reaction

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Bringing nearly 15 years of industry experience, Wesley is the latest addition to Maggiano's growing leadership team as the Italian American favorite continues to evolve its offerings

DALLAS, Dec. 2, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Brinker International announces the appointment of Mike Wesley as Vice President of Marketing for Maggiano's Little Italy. In this role, Wesley will be instrumental in further amplifying and building the Maggiano's brand as it enters its next era of classic Italian American dining, driving key marketing and promotional strategies. Wesley's passion and guidance will be pivotal in the evolution of Maggiano's culinary offerings and dining standards, which has been in motion since the appointment of Dominique Bertolone as Maggiano's Little Italy's President last year and more recently, the addition of Chef Anthony Amoroso, VP of Innovation and Growth.

"We couldn't be more pleased to welcome Mike to Maggiano's and know his experience will provide valuable insights to guide the brand toward new heights of growth and success as we craft this next chapter of the Maggiano's story," said Dominique Bertolone, President, Maggiano's Little Italy, and SVP, Brinker International. "We are certain that his visionary leadership style combined with his experience in driving brand relevance will enable us to elevate our marketing strategy in the months and years to come."

Wesley joins Maggiano's after a 14-year tenure at Yum! Brands, where he most recently served as VP of Brand Marketing, KFC U.S., strategizing key initiatives across the national calendar, including notable menu and brand innovations. Before Wesley transitioned into the food service industry, he held brand positions at Procter & Gamble in the North America Oral Health and Global Home Care categories, where he led strategies to enhance brand awareness, loyalty, and market share.

"This is an exciting time at Maggiano's, and I am looking forward to working with the team to continue building upon the great progress they have made, while finding new opportunities to celebrate this iconic Italian American brand," said Wesley. "I have had a lifelong passion for hospitality, having grown up in the restaurant industry working alongside my father. My experience at KFC allowed me to partner with various disciplines in service of creating great products and experiences for our restaurants. This next phase of my career certainly builds upon that passion, and I look forward to opportunity to work with all of the amazing Maggiano's Team Members."

To learn more about Maggiano's, please visit maggianos.com, and follow along on social @MaggianosLittleItaly.

About Brinker
Brinker International, Inc. is one of the world's leading casual dining restaurant companies and home of Chili's^® Grill & Bar, Maggiano's Little Italy^® and a virtual brand: It's Just Wings^®. Founded in 1975 in Dallas, Texas, we've ventured far from home, but stayed true to our roots. Brinker owns, operates or franchises more than 1,600 restaurants in 30 countries and two U.S. territories. Our passion is making people feel special, and we hope you feel that passion each time you visit one of our restaurants or invite us into your home through takeout or delivery. Learn more about Brinker and its brands at brinker.com.

About Maggiano's Little Italy
Maggiano's Little Italy specializes in Italian-American cuisine served in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Maggiano's menu features both classic and contemporary recipes – authentic pastas, signature salads, steaks, fresh seafood, regular chef specials and specialty desserts. Maggiano's 52 restaurants nationwide offer lunch and dinner as well as delivery, carryout services, and banquet spaces for special occasions. Follow news about Maggiano's on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest. For additional information, including the restaurant nearest you, please visit maggianos.com.

 

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SOURCE Maggiano's Little Italy

FAQ

Who is the new VP of Marketing at Maggiano's Little Italy (EAT)?

Mike Wesley has been appointed as Vice President of Marketing for Maggiano's Little Italy, joining from his previous role as VP of Brand Marketing at KFC U.S.

What is Mike Wesley's previous experience before joining Maggiano's (EAT)?

Mike Wesley spent 14 years at Yum! Brands as VP of Brand Marketing for KFC U.S., and previously held brand positions at Procter & Gamble in North America Oral Health and Global Home Care categories.

What recent leadership changes has Maggiano's (EAT) made?

Maggiano's has recently appointed Mike Wesley as VP of Marketing, following the appointments of Dominique Bertolone as President and Chef Anthony Amoroso as VP of Innovation and Growth.