Papa Murphy’s International today announced the hiring of Ann Stone as chief marketing officer. Papa Murphy’s currently operates more than 1,000 locations in 30 states and Canada.

Stone brings to Papa Murphy’s an extensive background of executive marketing experience garnered from positions within companies such as International Dairy Queen, Inc., Church’s Chicken, Pizza Hut, Inc., The Coca-Cola Company, and S. C. Johnson & Son Inc. Most recently, she spearheaded the launch of multiple global initiatives for Dairy Queen as the company’s vice president of international operations and marketing. From Dubai to China, Stone focused on generating new market ideas, service improvements, and franchisee support. As chief marketing officer at Church’s Chicken, Stone lead the successful repositioning of the chicken chain’s brand with the creation of a new adverting model, brand icons and packaging, among other elements. She is also the founder and CEO of Tittabawassee LLC, an Atlanta-based firm that specializes in restaurant marketing and strategy services.

“Over the last few years we’ve made great strides in growing Papa Murphy’s geographically–we’re one of the few chains to exceed 1,000 locations–now it’s time to focus our attention on evolving and growing the brand,” says Clarice Turner, president and COO at Papa Murphy’s. “Ann brings a caliber of experience, knowledge and skill that Papa Murphy’s can tap to blaze a trail into its next exciting chapter.”

Stone earned her degree in business administration from Hope College in Holland, Michigan. She later also earned an M.B.A. from the University of Michigan. Stone currently serves on the board of directors for Definition 6, an Atlanta-based internet consulting and software firm.