News

Dean Foods exec named as Wendy’s chief communications officer

June 4, 2014

The Wendy's Co. has named Liliana Esposito, 39, as its new chief communications officer. Esposito will be succeeding John Barker, who has decided to leave the company after 18 years of service. The two will work closely together to ensure a seamless transition, the company said in a news release.

"Given the rapidly changing communications landscape, I am delighted to have someone with Liliana Esposito's broad experience and capability for this critical role. Her knowledge, counsel and expertise will be invaluable, as we continue to transform and position Wendy's for greater growth," CEO Emil Brolick said in the release.

Most recently, Esposito worked for Dean Foods as VP, Corporate Communications and Public Affairs. As a member of Dean's executive leadership team, she was responsible for aligning communications with business needs and executing engagement strategies for key internal and external audiences.

She also played a key role in Dean's re-structuring into three distinct businesses, served as president of the company's philanthropic foundation and spearheaded communications on critical topics such as environmental sustainability, animal welfare and nutrition.

Prior to Dean Foods, Esposito held a number of roles including Mercury Public Affairs, where she was SVP and led campaigns for corporate and non-profit clients. She also worked as a public affairs manager for Mars Inc. and, earlier in her career, as a senior associate with Burson-Marsteller.

Esposito holds a JD from Seton Hall University and a BA from The University of Virginia.

Brolick’s contract extended

Wendy’s also announced this week that it is extending Brolick’s contract by one year. According to the Columbus Dispatch, his contract was set to expire in September.