KFC has named Amy Ellis Durini as its first Global Chief Brand Officer, a newly created role designed to drive the brand’s global strategy following a major rebrand.
The appointment marks a significant leadership move for Yum! Brands’ flagship quick-service restaurant chain as it seeks to deepen consumer connections and shape the next chapter of its identity.
Durini, who previously spent eight years with KFC across its Latin America and global teams, returns to the company after five years at Taco Bell, where she most recently served as Chief Marketing & Strategy Officer, International.
Her earlier career includes senior marketing roles at Burger King, Kraft Foods, and Panera Bread, giving her deep experience across the QSR and consumer goods sectors.
Scott Mezvinsky, CEO of KFC, welcomed the appointment, describing Durini as a leader with a proven ability to deliver culture-led growth. “As we continue setting the standard for the modern chicken QSR, I am excited to welcome Amy Ellis Durini to our global leadership team as KFC’s Global Chief Brand Officer,” he said.
“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Amy during my time with KFC LA&C and Taco Bell. Her creativity, collaborative mindset, strategic leadership and track record of culture-led growth will help us connect with consumers in even more relevant and distinctive ways.”
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Durini expressed enthusiasm about rejoining the brand. “KFC has already played such an important role in my career,” she said. “Before Taco Bell, I spent eight years across KFC’s Latin America and Global teams, so returning feels a bit like coming home.”
In her new position, Durini will oversee KFC’s global brand strategy, including loyalty, brand and retail, as well as new concept development and innovation. The role comes as the company advances a refreshed brand identity aimed at creating a new generation of spaces designed more for hospitality than pure efficiency.
With her blend of deep institutional knowledge of KFC and recent experience driving international marketing strategy at Taco Bell, Durini is expected to play a central role in ensuring the brand remains distinctive, relevant, and culturally resonant in markets around the world.
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