Marketing in Food To Go Q&A w/ Malachy O’Keeffe, Head of Marketing, Wingstop UK
We spoke to Malachy ahead of his appearance on the much-anticipated Marketing in Food to Go Panel at lunch! 24. Malachy discussed the critical role of marketing teams and their importance to hospitality businesses as a whole.
Join us as we explore key questions with Malachy and don’t miss him as part of the Marketing in Food To Go Panel at lunch! 24.
What is it about the role of the marketing team that is so instrumental to successful hospitality businesses?
The marketing team helps introduce new people to the business, shines a light on their core beliefs, values and demographics. Many people first come across brands online or through events and partnerships, so it’s vital these are executed perfectly to help give new audiences an understanding of the brand before they have even tried the product. Marketing must also focus on retention and engagement of existing customers as well as new ones.
How has the role of changed since you came into the industry?
Showing my age here but there is now an even greater focus on social than there once was and a great deal more digital innovation in certain areas. But ultimately, marketing hasn’t changed since the dawn of time – it’s your job to showcase your product well, support your teams and help build meaningful interactions with customers.
What would you recommend about working in a marketing team to someone coming into the hospitality industry?
Working in a marketing department gives you a great understanding of businesses as a whole, opportunities to meet new and interesting people all the time and the chance to help grow and develop a brand that you love and are passionate about. Do it, it’s awesome!
Don’t miss the Marketing in Food To Go Panel taking place at lunch! 24 on 19 September at 2:15 PM in Keynote Theatre 1 (sponsored by Lipton Ice Tea). Featuring:
- Malachy O’Keeffe, Head of Marketing, Wingstop UK
- Mariam French, Marketing Director, LEON Restaurants
- Rob Burns, Marketing Director, Chopstix
- Chris Brazier, Group Event Director, lunch! (panel host)
You can also hear from even more marketing leaders in the Marketing for Coffee Shops, Marketing for Restaurants and Marketing for Pubs & Bars panels at both lunch! & Casual Dining. Your ticket gives you FREE access to two days of keynote seminars at both shows. Hear inspirational keynote interviews alongside revealing industry panels and cutting-edge insight.
