Red Robin Appoints Scott Hudler as Chief Marketing Officer

Scott Hudler has been appointed as Red Robin’s new Chief Marketing Officer, effective 8 September. He succeeds Russ Klein who served as the gourmet burger company’s interim CMO for just over a year.

In his new role, Scott will be responsible for overseeing Red Robin’s brand strategy, advertising, digital marketing presence, guest insights and marketing communications.

“I’m excited to join the team and help strengthen an iconic brand by delivering experiences that inspire loyalty, drive frequency and support long-term growth” says Scott. The new appointment is part of a larger growth strategy Red Robin is implementing across its restaurant chains.

A strong brand builder

Commenting on Scott’s new appointment, Dave Pace, President and CEO of Red Robin says: “Scott has a proven track record of building iconic brands, connecting with guests and delivering broad-based business results.” Scott is bringing nearly three decades of experience across hospitality and retail industries.

His reputation for delivering measurable results through innovation, product development and consumer engagement has been established through his leadership roles at enterprises such as Mars and Dunkin’ Brands.

Dave is confident in the company’s CMO appointment and adds:“His (Scott) experience, creativity and guest-first mindset make him the right leader to advance our First Choice marketing approach and drive Red Robin’s next phase of growth.”

Scott is well versed in a CMO role and comes into this appointment after almost three years as Whataburger’s Chief Marketing Officer. As both CMO and Senior Vice President, he led the company’s brand, marketing, digital and customer engagement strategies.

Bringing this field of knowledge to his new role, Scott hopes to build on Red Robin’s marketing strategy and propose new ways the business can maximise its audience reach both digitally and offline.

Red Robin aims to maximise its First Choice approach

Red Robin announced its First Choice approach on 14 July. Now, just over a year later, the brand continues to develop its strategic redirection. Focused on operational efficiency, traffic growth and cultural development, Red Robin’s strategy aims to drive long-term value for guests, team members and investors – essentially anyone who will interact with the hotel somehow.

As newly appointed CMO, Scott will support the brand in its strategy and build on it in order to maximise growth as much as possible.

The casual dining restaurant chain is aiming to integrate digitalisation into its strategy in order to streamline operations. Scott will seek to drive a strong digital presence in the brand through its operations and its marketing. 

To ensure maximum success in the role, now former CMO Russ will support Scott’s transition and remain with Red Robin in his consultative role until 2026 draws to a close.