News Summary
Jon Bridges, Chick-fil-A’s CMO for the last eight years and with the company for over 30, is retiring, making way for Michael Lage. Lage, a 14-year veteran at Chick-fil-A, will guide the brand into a new era. The transition is meticulously planned, coinciding with the company’s 80th anniversary and an expansive marketing campaign that embraces nostalgia.
Chick-fil-A’s CMO Jon Bridges to Retire, Michael Lage Takes the Helm
In a heartfelt announcement that marks a significant shift in the leadership of one of America’s favorite fast-food chains, Jon Bridges has decided to retire as the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of Chick-fil-A after an impressive tenure of over 30 years with the company. This news first broke in the Atlanta Business Chronicle, and Chick-fil-A has since confirmed the details.
Bridges’ Journey at Chick-fil-A
Bridges has held the position of CMO since 2015, but his journey with Chick-fil-A stretches back three decades. Throughout his career, he has embraced a variety of roles, starting from the bustling kitchen all the way up to the executive suite. Not only did he serve as CMO, but he has also contributed significantly as the Chief Information Officer and the Vice President of Customer Experience, making him an invaluable asset to the restaurant brand. His last day with the beloved chicken chain will be March 31, 2026, giving him a chance to share a fond farewell with the staff and loyal customers.
Introducing Michael Lage
Stepping into Bridges’ shoes is Michael Lage, who has been part of the Chick-fil-A family for an impressive 14 years. Lage’s wealth of experience within the company makes him a fantastic choice to guide the brand into its next chapter. Before being named as the new CMO, he held the title of Vice President of Field Operations. Michael’s prior roles include a diverse range of positions from Manager of Customer Relationship Strategies to Senior Director of Go-to-Market Strategy.
Interestingly enough, part of Michael’s journey included transitioning to an Executive Director role in Existing Restaurant Real Estate in 2023. This ensures that he has a rich understanding of both the company’s marketing and operational frameworks. Interestingly, Michael also kicked off his career at Chick-fil-A as the Coordinator of Marketing Education before briefly indulging in a marketing strategist role at Facebook. This diverse background promises a refreshing perspective for Chick-fil-A’s marketing future.
A Smooth Transition
The leadership handoff between Bridges and Lage seems to be designed meticulously. The company has planned a three-month overlap between the two, allowing for ample time for training and guidance. This strategy of smooth transitions indicates Chick-fil-A’s commitment to maintaining its marketing excellence while honoring the legacy of the past while embracing innovation for the future.
Timing is Everything
This transition also coincides beautifully with Chick-fil-A’s 80th anniversary, a milestone that the brand intends to celebrate in grand style. In fact, Chick-fil-A is gearing up for its largest marketing campaign to date, which is sure to captivate audiences. The current campaign features a catchy “newstalgia” theme—yes, you heard right! This innovative campaign doesn’t just harken back to the good ole days; it’s more of a celebration of nostalgia with a modern twist. Customers can expect to see retro-style cups and unique merchandise, alongside new menu launches and a thrilling Golden Cup Sweepstakes.
As Bridges prepares to take a step back, it seems more than evident that Chick-fil-A is in capable hands with Michael Lage at the forefront of the marketing team. With a rich history and a bright future, it’s an exciting time to be part of the Chick-fil-A community, whether you’re a team member or a loyal customer. Here’s to fresh ideas and continued success as Chick-fil-A embarks on this new adventure, keeping the spirit of community and service stronger than ever!
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Additional Resources
- Nation’s Restaurant News: Jon Bridges Retires as Chief Marketing Officer of Chick-fil-A
- Wikipedia: Chick-fil-A
- 1851 Franchise: Chick-fil-A Welcomes New Chief Marketing Officer
- Google Search: Chick-fil-A marketing strategy
- Nation’s Restaurant News: Taco Bell Promotes Several Executives
- Google Scholar: Chick-fil-A corporate leadership
- Adweek: Chick-fil-A Drops Richards Group After More Than 2 Decades
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Marketing in Restaurant Industry
- Fox Business: Chick-fil-A, Starbucks, McDonald’s & Restaurant Chains in the US
- Google News: Chick-fil-A news
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