VP of Menu Strategy and Field Marketing - Job Opportunity at El Pollo Loco

Costa Mesa, US
Full-time
Executive
Posted: April 9, 2025
Hybrid
USD 250,000 - 280,000 per year

Benefits

Premium Healthcare Package with Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage
401(k) with immediate vesting and company match - above industry standard
Flexible Spending Accounts for additional tax benefits
Generous PTO with 12 paid holidays
Work-life balance through hybrid schedule
Unique perks including dog-friendly office and restaurant discounts
Entertainment and lifestyle benefits package
Free meal program with Dine Out Card

Key Responsibilities

Lead strategic product marketing and menu innovation to drive brand growth and market penetration
Develop and execute comprehensive marketing calendar aligned with sales objectives and KPIs
Oversee cross-functional product development from concept to market launch
Direct field marketing operations and local store marketing initiatives across multiple states
Manage franchise relationships and lead Marketing Advisory Committee
Drive go-to-market strategies including pricing, positioning, and promotional planning
Analyze performance metrics and optimize program effectiveness
Oversee marketing budget and agency relationships
Partner with Analytics team for data-driven decision making

Requirements

Education

Bachelor's degree required. Master's degree preferred

Experience

6+ years of product marketing and menu management leadership

Required Skills

Strong leadership skills Proven ability to lead, coach, mentor teams Advanced planning and budget management Complex report analysis and interpretation High proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite Database and research tools expertise Project management and prioritization Effective communication skills Experience with franchise operations

Certifications

Valid driver's license
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

Quick-service restaurants are increasingly focusing on digital transformation and menu innovation to meet evolving consumer preferences Fast-casual Mexican segment shows strong growth potential with emphasis on authentic, fire-grilled offerings Multi-channel marketing and localized strategies becoming critical for regional chain success

Salary Evaluation

The offered salary range of $250,000-$280,000 is competitive for a VP-level marketing position in the fast-casual restaurant sector, particularly in the Southern California market

Role Significance

Likely managing a marketing department of 15-25 professionals across corporate and field teams
Executive leadership position with direct impact on company's product strategy and market performance

Key Projects

Menu innovation and product development initiatives Market expansion and new store opening strategies Franchise relationship management and support programs Brand positioning and promotional calendar development

Success Factors

Strong understanding of QSR operations and franchise dynamics Ability to balance innovation with operational feasibility Data-driven decision making capabilities Cross-functional leadership experience Strategic thinking with tactical execution abilities

Market Demand

High demand for strategic marketing leadership in QSR sector, particularly for executives with both menu development and field marketing expertise

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Menu innovation and product development expertise Franchise relationship management Cross-functional team leadership Data-driven decision making Strategic planning and execution

Beneficial Skills

Digital marketing expertise International market experience Consumer insights and trends analysis Food cost and pricing optimization

Unique Aspects

Combination of menu strategy and field marketing responsibilities indicates strong focus on operational execution
Emphasis on franchise relationships suggests significant growth through franchise model
Dog-friendly office and lifestyle benefits reflect modern corporate culture

Career Growth

Typical tenure in role is 3-5 years before advancement to C-suite positions

Potential Next Roles

Chief Marketing Officer Chief Commercial Officer Chief Operating Officer

Company Overview

El Pollo Loco

El Pollo Loco is a leading fire-grilled chicken restaurant chain with over 490 locations across 7 states

Strong regional player in the fast-casual Mexican segment with significant growth potential
Dominant presence in Southern California with expansion opportunities in other markets
Progressive corporate culture emphasizing work-life balance and employee wellbeing, with hybrid work arrangements and comprehensive benefits
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