LOUISVILLE, KY. — Two new chief executive officers are joining Yum! Brands, Inc. Mark King has been named c.e.o. of Taco Bell, and Artie Starrs has been promoted to c.e.o. of Pizza Hut. Each will be responsible for driving their respective brand’s growth strategies, franchise operations and performance, the company said.
Mr. King joins Taco Bell from Adidas Group North America, where he was president for four years before stepping down to become executive emeritus in 2018. He will be tasked with helping Yum! Brands meet its goal of making Taco Bell a $15 billion brand, according to the company.
Prior to his promotion, Mr. Starrs was president of Pizza Hut U.S. Under his leadership, the brand invested in several digital initiatives including an online rewards program, a delivery tracker with text alerts and voice-enabled digital assistants for easy ordering. He also led the company’s acquisition of online ordering engine QuikOrder last year.
“We believe this global brand division leadership structure at Taco Bell and Pizza Hut will enable the U.S. and international teams to further implement innovative best practices worldwide, strengthen digital and technology capabilities and accelerate growth for franchisees and shareholders,” said Greg Creed, chief executive officer at Yum! Brands. “We’re investing in world-class executives like Mark and fortunate to promote incredible talent throughout our company like Artie. Mark is an accomplished retail innovator, and Artie is an excellent growth strategist.”
