Miami / FL. (bk) Burger King Corporation has named former Coca-Cola Company marketing executive Natalia Franco as global chief marketing officer. Franco, who joined the United States´ No. 2 burger chain on May 17, is responsible for overseeing product innovation, consumer insights and the development and implementation of the brand´s marketing and advertising strategies worldwide.
High unemployment rates have hurt Burger King in recent quarters. The fast-food chain has tried to compensate by expanding its menu with items that appeal to both budget-conscious customers and those willing to spend more.
Franco most recently served as vice president of global marketing and innovation for Coca-Cola, where she was responsible for all cross-functional marketing efforts for the McDonald´s division, including R+D, consumer insights, marketing and operations. She also has worked for General Mills Inc. in a variety of domestic and international marketing positions.
In December, Russ Klein stepped down as president of Burger King´s global marketing strategy and innovation and was succeeded on an interim basis by Peter Robinson, former president of Burger King´s Europe, Middle East and Africa business segment. Franco will be based at Burger King´s Miami headquarters and will serve on the global executive team, reporting to Chairman and CEO John W. Chidsey.
