QSR Magazine: Chipotle Taps Bloomin’ Brands Exec as New Marketing Boss

After the resignation of longtime executive Mark Crumpacker, Chipotle now has a new chief marketing officer. On Tuesday, the company announced that Chris Brandt is stepping into the new role. QSR Magazine notes that Brandt brings a lot of experience to the role, having previously served as the executive vice president and chief brands officer at Bloomin’ Brands, which encompasses Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba’s, Bonefish Grill and Fleming’s.

In addition to his experience at Bloomin’ Brands, Brandt also worked as chief brand and marketing officer at YUM! Brands, which includes Taco Bell. His previous roles involved him overseeing product innovation, product pipeline development, consumer insights, creative strategy, media strategy and digital marketing. Chipotle is now hoping to leverage that expertise as it aims to bounce back and rebuild its image following an E. coli outbreak in 2015.

In a statement, Brandt said, “I have admired the Chipotle brand both as a consumer and a marketer over the years. I’m excited to join the company during this pivotal time and to work with the rest of the leadership team to help reignite the brand and increase relevance with consumers.”

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