News

Rita's Italian Ice adds CMO

Robin Seward previously served as VP of brand marketing for Arby's. Her team served up the timely and viral "Pharrell hat" tweet.

January 23, 2015

Pennsylvania-based Rita's Italian Ice has named Robin Seward as the company's chief marketing officer.

Seward, a 25-year industry veteran, will head the development and execution of marketing strategies and research and development for the 600-unit chain.

Seward's career includes leadership positions at quick-service and full-service restaurant giants such as Burger King Corporation, Carrabba's Italian Grill and, most recently, Arby's Restaurant Group, Inc., where she served at the helm of the brand experience team as vice president of brand marketing.

During her time at Arby's, she pioneered a new brand positioning campaign, expanded social listening capabilities to improve interaction and crisis identification, and enabled the famous "Pharrell hat" tweet, which garnered considerable exposure for the brand.

"We're thrilled to have Robin as part of our executive team at Rita's," said Jeff Moody, CEO of Rita's Franchise Company, in a company press release. "Her broad experience, creativity and fresh perspective is just what we need to continue to grow the brand both nationally and globally. We are excited to watch Robin and her team amp up the fun and excitement that guests have come to expect from Rita's Italian Ice."