Jeff Keune
Rolla, Missouri
Overview
For over a dozen years, I dedicated my career to the restaurant industry at Wendy's, Einstein Brothers, and Bob Evans brands. From brand manager to interim CMO, my career flourished as I focused on refining menus, developing new products, expanding into new dayparts, training team members, and driving sales growth. This required operationalizing plans, developing marketing strategies, convincing franchises and board members of the direction, and listening to employee feedback at all levels to constantly refine marketing strategies and implement new operational activities. As the quick-service
About
For over a dozen years, I dedicated my career to the restaurant industry at Wendy's, Einstein Brothers, and Bob Evans brands. From brand manager to interim CMO, my career flourished as I focused on refining menus, developing new products, expanding into new dayparts, training team members, and driving sales growth. This required operationalizing plans, developing marketing strategies, convincing franchises and board members of the direction, and listening to employee feedback at all levels to constantly refine marketing strategies and implement new operational activities. As the quick-service industry was evolving, so was the convenience industry. I became very interested in how consumer behaviors were changing, and convenience brands sought to leverage their spaces to become a one-stop shop for fuel, grocery, and meals. The past stigma of convenience had the opportunity to evolve into brands that people went out of their way to shop. Part of that strategy was to elevate the food and beverage platform. So, as I moved into the convenience industry, food and beverage remained my core focus. For each brand I've worked for, my role has been to elevate the food and beverage platform and drive the development of loyal customer behavior through an overall elevated customer experience with those same core principles I learned at Starbucks - speed, quality, and kindness. Convenience was a unique opportunity to hone my operational skills, as the number of moving parts is exponentially higher. I navigated through these challenges by implementing efficient processes, fostering strong relationships with suppliers, and staying updated with industry trends. My experience as a VP, CMO, and President within the convenience industry has made me a better operator and a strategic leader. The intersection of QSR and convenience is important to understand. As customers demand faster delivery, higher quality, and more accessible experiences, these two industries will intersect more and more. Having deep experience in both makes me a unique leader, able to understand, adapt, and ensure a brand can grow and evolve in ways that solidify its future. Specialties: Brand Leadership including Marketing, Operations, Innovation and Team Building, Brand Strategy, P&L Management, Integrated Marketing Activation (Digital & Traditional, National & Local, Store, Community & Cause), New Product and Platform Development, Menu Strategy, Innovation, New Platform Development and Implementation, Store & Restaurant Remodels and Re-Branding, People Development, and Team Building.