Red Rooster poaches KFC marketing manager

Quick service chain Red Rooster has appointed former group marketing manager of KFC Ashley Hughes as its new director of marketing.

Hughes, who spent six years at KFC in various marketing roles and played a leading role in the numerous campaigns including the “Shut Up and Take My Money” value campaign, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the position.

“I am excited about taking on a leadership position with a real opportunity to create change and shape the future of a well-known Aussie brand,” Hughes said.

“The growth potential for Red Rooster is huge and in order to deliver that, there are some important foundational pieces of work across the brand that need to be implemented to ensure the brand reaches its full potential.”

Before moving into the QSR industry, Hughes previously held positions at premium drinks company Diageo, as well as Johnnie Walker, Smirnoff Vodka and Bacardi.

Red Rooster chief executive Nick Keenan said that Hughes appointment represented the brand’s growth, and the first-class talent it now attracts.

“Ashley’s technical skillset gained at [consulting firm] McKinsey, his success and experience at Diageo and KFC makes him one of the leading marketing professionals in Australia, and indeed one of the most experienced in QSR,” Keenan said.

“He will be a central figure in the transformation of our brand, our product and the customer experience that builds customer loyalty today and long into our bright future.”

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