Shake Shack Names Michael Fanuele as Chief Brand Officer

Shake Shack has hired Michael Fanuele to the newly created role of chief brand officer, reporting to chief executive (CEO) Rob Lynch.

The appointment follows the exit of former top marketer Jay Livingston in March.

Fanuele has worked with brands including Arby’s, Cheerios, and Volvo. He has also held senior leadership roles across agencies such as Fallon and Havas.

He joined General Mills in 2014 as its first chief creative officer (CCO). More recently, he consulted brands, including Shake Shack, through his business, Lab of Creative Commerce.

Marketing shake-up

As chief brand officer, Fanuele will oversee advertising, paid media, and insights and analytics. He’ll work closely with chief growth officer Steph So and chief comms officer Luke DeRouen, who were appointed in January prior to Livingston’s exit.

In July, Shake Shack’s quarterly sales increased 1.8% year-over-year, with restaurant profits hitting $82.2 million.

“Over the past year, we’ve built a strong foundation in the operations of our Shacks, and now we’re accelerating our efforts to connect with more guests through bold, sales-driving marketing,” said Lynch.