Staffing

Former KFC marketing lead takes helm as Long John Silver's CMO

December 8, 2025

Long John Silver's has hired former KFC director of retail marketing Laura Curth Ellis to serve as chief marketing officer. As CMO, Ellis will lead the brand's marketing, menu innovation and guest engagement strategies as the company capitalizes on its current growth and continues its mission to bring craveable seafood at a great value, according to a press release.

"Laura brings a proven ability to elevate iconic brands," Nate Fowler, chief executive officer at Long John Silver's. "Her strategic vision and leadership will set us up for our next stage of growth by helping us modernize how guests experience Long John Silver's — from menu innovation to digital storytelling — while staying true to our heritage."

Ellis joins Long John Silver's after eight years at KFC, where she was acknowledged as one of Yum! Brands' Top 14 Future Marketing Leaders.

"It's an honor to join the Long John Silver's crew at such a pivotal moment," Ellis said in the press releasr. "There's tremendous opportunity to build on a storied legacy with fresh storytelling, meaningful, craveable innovation and new treasured moments with guests."

Before KFC, Ellis held marketing and innovation roles with Chiquita, Brown-Forman and several other companies in the food industry, gaining broad experience across both the restaurant and CPG categories. Her diverse background includes brand development, consumer insights and data-driven marketing strategy.