Arby’s Restaurant Group, Inc. announced today that Cheryl Barre has been named chief marketing officer for Arby’s and president of Arby’s Franchise Association. She will replace Debbie Pike who announced her retirement earlier this year.

In this position, Barre will lead all strategic brand marketing efforts including product development, national and field marketing, advertising, media, consumer insights and research.

“Cheryl’s experience in strategic marketing makes her the ideal fit as CMO, and we look forward to utilizing her keen insights in continuing to accelerate Arby’s innovation and growth in the market,” said Roland Smith, CEO, Arby’s Restaurant Group, Inc.

A seasoned veteran, Barre brings more than 23 years of marketing and management experience with major consumer brands and Fortune 500 companies to the Arby’s team. Most recently, she was the senior vice president of Retail Marketing for Georgia-Pacific Corporation where she was instrumental in the creation and execution of marketing plans for such noted products as Quilted Northern and Angel Soft bath tissue, Brawny and Sparkle towels, and Vanity Fair napkins.

Prior to joining Georgia-Pacific, Barre served as president of the Women’s and Outdoor Division for Russell Corporation. She also spent 15 years with PepsiCo, in various positions including director of Sales and Marketing for PepsiCo Restaurants and vice president of the Fountain Beverage Division for the Southeast.

“Arby’s is known for being unique in the fast food industry, and this is a fantastic opportunity to work with a smart, dedicated group of professionals to further build upon what sets Arby’s apart–great tasting food,” said Barre.

Barre is a graduate of the University of Virginia where she received a MBA in Marketing and a BS in Architecture. She is a board member of the following: Girls Inc., The Walker School and the Pinnacle Orthopedics Research Institute.

Barre resides in Marietta with her husband and has two sons and one daughter.