Quick-service chicken restaurant chain Church’s Texas Chicken has hired Natalia Franco for its Executive Vice President, Global Chief Marketing Officer role effective March 6, bringing more than 30 years of executive leadership experience to the brand.

As EVP, Global Chief Marketing Officer, Franco is responsible for providing a strategic vision for the brand and creatively leading marketing ideation, brand execution and digital prowess across the organization to drive brand awareness and positioning, resulting in continued growth and stronger franchise relationships.

“I’m thrilled to join this iconic brand as it continues on a strong growth trajectory and secures a leading position in the fried chicken category,” says Franco. “It is an exciting time to join a company with such tremendous potential in an exciting, dynamic category.”

Prior to joining Church’s Texas Chicken, Franco held numerous executive roles such as EVP, Chief Brand and Strategy Officer for California Pizza Kitchen; President and Founder of Brandmark Global, LLC; SVP, CMO of IHOP under DineEquity; and Global CMO, EVP for Burger King. More recently, she was promoted within Focus Brands to be the Marketing Senior Vice President for the non-restaurant brands including Jamba, Auntie Ann’s, Cinnabon and Carvel. This promotion followed her success as Chief Marketing Officer at McAlister’s Deli. Throughout her career, Franco has gained extensive experience in P&L and business development, portfolio management and profit optimization, customer relationship management, leadership development and additional skills that are vital in the quick-service industry.

“Natalia is a veteran marketing executive with whom I previously worked during a major brand acceleration. Her vision for brand positioning and her leadership in building great teams is very strong. Natalia’s expertise will be key as we continue to strengthen and grow this beloved brand,” says Joe Guith, CEO, Church’s Texas Chicken and Texas Chicken.