Red Lobster hires ad agency exec as next CMO.

Red Lobster has named Andy Pitts, former EVP of client experience at BarkleyOKRP, as its next Chief Marketing Officer.

Pitts has worked closely with Red Lobster for several years, since the seafood chain named BarkleyOKRP its agency of record in 2022, helping the chain refresh its creative strategy following its 2024 bankruptcy with a series of ads featuring CEO Damola Adamolekun reintroducing the brand to customers.

During his more than 13 years at the agency, Pitts also worked with Fogo de Chao, Dairy Queen, and Wingstop. Orlando-based Red Lobster has not had a permanent CMO since late last year, when Nichole Robillard left after just over a year in the role.

Red Lobster confirmed the hire and said a formal announcement is coming in the next few weeks, framing the move as part of its broader leadership build-out as it continues its post-bankruptcy comeback.

Read the full coverage.

• Read the full story on Nation's Restaurant News.