• by Teresa Buyikian , April 10, 2024

Since bringing on Denise Lauer as CMO in June of last year, Marco’s Pizza has continued to grow its marketing team, and is now announcing three new executive hires.

Ben Halliwell joins the chain as senior vice president of digital marketing. He most recently served as vice president, customer personalization and digital, at Inspire Brands and has also worked for such companies as HSNi and Time Warner Cable.

In his new role, he is charged with “enhancing the ecommerce customer experience, optimizing digital demand, paid media and creating a marketing engine to convert and engage consumers from trial through loyalty,” per a release from the brand.

Tanisha Chea brings 15 plus years of experience to her new role as vice president of marketing at Marco’s. Chea previously worked in consumer marketing and on integrated multi-channel launch campaigns for Krispy Kreme, Carrabba’s Italian Grill and Taco Bell. She will also work in new product development in addition to her marketing duties.

Lastly, Director of Culinary Innovation Kathleen Kennedy brings over 40 years’ experience to her new position.  She previously held executive chef, product development and consulting positions for global brands such as Kraft, Starbucks and Walmart, among others. As director of culinary innovation, Kennedy will be “accelerating future innovations” to the Marco’s Menu, according to the release.

Marco’s rolled out a partnership with Mike’s Hot Honey and the LTO Magnifico Pizza, as well as the addition of the Pizzoli to its permanent menu.

"We made great strides last year in evolving our brand strategy, digital and product innovation pipeline," said Lauer on the release. "Looking ahead, we have plans to launch a transformative brand strategy geared to wake up minds, hearts and tastebuds of consumers everywhere.”