Staffing
Luna Grill hires 1st CMO
December 5, 2024
Luna Grill Mediterranean Kitchen has named Billy Grenham as its first CMO.
"Billy has a unique experience portfolio in lifestyle marketing and brand development for world-class organizations such as Yum Brands, PepsiCo and CycleBar," Luna Grill President Rich Pinnella said in a company press release. "He is one of the most observant marketers I have ever worked with and understands how to make brands very relevant to current culture. These skills are invaluable as we expand our footprint. The timing couldn't be better."
Grenham first worked with Pinnella at Yum Brands from 2014 until 2019, where he served in various capacities including head of global marketing and communications for Taco Bell. He led the global brand vision, growth and omni-channel sales strategies for Taco Bell International restaurants spanning 26 countries, growing from 75 restaurants to over 1,000.
He also spearheaded the marketing Center of Excellence and the market entry strategies for China, Brazil, Japan, Romania and Australia.
"I believe strongly in the power of a brand purpose and threading that through everything we do," Grenham said in the release. "There has been a strong shift in eating habits in the U.S. Young and old are now very conscious about what they eat and how it makes them feel. I have been watching Luna Grill grow over the past few years and everything they stand for is spot-on, Good Food That is Good For You. Our consumer landscape is shifting to that direction and I'm so excited to be part of that shift.
Most recently, Grenham was CMO of Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar, a national casual dining concept, overseeing the marketing department and agency relationships.
"Grenham will be an integral member of the executive team, leading the company's branding and messaging as Luna Grill continues its growth trajectory," Luna Grill CEO Sean Pourteymour said in the release. "The company has plans to aggressively expand with additional locations in new and existing markets in the next year, along with the opening a new corporate headquarters in Carlsbad, California."
Founded in 2004, Luna Grill has over 50 locations.
