The Franchise Pro has 25-Plus Years of Restaurant Retail Marketing and Operations Experience
Ascent Hospitality Management, the parent company of Huddle House and Perkins American Food Co., has named Stephanie Mattingly vice president of marketing for Huddle House. Mattingly, who has more than 25 years of experience in restaurant operations and franchise relations, now spearheads Huddle House’s marketing efforts, including brand strategy, digital marketing operations and customer engagement initiatives.
“Huddle House is a beloved American dining icon with a 60-year legacy, and many exciting things are happening with the brand right now,” Mattingly said. “With a recently modernized identity, upgraded core menu items and redesigned restaurants, Huddle House is positioned for continued growth.”
Mattingly previously worked with Ascent CEO James O’Reilly and Huddle House president Blain Shortreed at KFC and Long John Silver’s, and said she looks forward to driving continued success alongside them at Huddle House. “Ascent Hospitality Management’s strategic focus on operational excellence, innovation and franchisee support creates a strong foundation for the brand’s expansion. By aligning resources with targeted marketing efforts, we can enhance customer loyalty and achieve sustainable growth,” she said.
Shortreed said Mattingly’s experience will be invaluable in enhancing Huddle House’s marketing strategy. “We’re pleased to welcome her to our team where her expertise in brand development will play a key role in expanding our market presence. The team looks forward to her leadership as we further strengthen the connections to our guests,” Shortreed said.
Improving Marketing Initiatives
Mattingly said she finds marketing fascinating because it combines creativity with strategy. “Throughout my career, I’ve seen firsthand how effective storytelling, strategic media planning and digital innovation can transform brands.”
She advises franchisors looking to improve their marketing initiatives to embrace data insights to understand customer behavior. “This data will empower franchisees with localized marketing resources, helping them build campaigns that resonate emotionally with guests. Investing in digital tools and social media strategies is also essential to staying competitive in today’s landscape.”
In her spare time, Mattingly enjoys traveling and spending time with her husband and two children, Emma and James. Mattingly also golfs and is an active volunteer coach for her son’s football and basketball teams.
About Ascent Management
Ascent Hospitality Management is the parent company of Huddle House and Perkins American Food Co. The company has grown to almost 600 locations across North America.
