Alberici Brings Passion Developed through Decades of Restaurant Experience
Smalls Sliders, an Atlanta-based burger franchise, has promoted Michael Alberici from senior vice president of marketing to chief marketing officer. Alberici continues to lead all aspects of brand strategy, menu innovation, digital and integrated marketing operations, and guest analytics and experience. Before joining Smalls Sliders in 2023, his experience included brand marketing leadership roles with Cinnabon, Olive Garden and Universal Destinations and Experiences.
“Small Sliders stood out the moment I saw it. It’s bold, simple and knows exactly what it wants to be,” Alberici said. “When I joined in 2023, the brand was at this exciting inflection point. The product was winning, and the model was built for scale. My role was to help define the brand as we accelerated growth. Stepping into the CMO seat is a continuation of that work, sharpening who we are and how we show up as we expand across the country.”
Alberici said he focuses on leaning into what makes the brand different. “We don’t try to be everything to everyone. We keep the focus tight: craveable sliders, a great guest-first experience and a brand personality with some swagger,” he said. “We’re still early in our story, which means everything we do needs to move the needle: every Can [location] we open, every LTO, every moment of hospitality. I’m excited to keep amplifying what makes us craveable, disruptive and fun while making sure our marketing fuels growth for our franchisees.”
Experienced Leadership Team
To round out its executive team, Smalls Sliders also welcomed Ryan Crumley as chief development officer and promoted Adam Roof to vice president of finance.
Charles Watson, CEO of Smalls Sliders, said the burger franchise is in good hands under the leadership of Alberici and his colleagues. “As we continue to enter new markets and strengthen our core operations, having proven leaders in development, marketing and finance ensures we remain disciplined in delivering on our franchise promise and memorable guest experience as we scale,” Watson said.
Passion for Food Service
Alberici’s passion for restaurants and food service goes back to his youth, earning $1 an hour delivering meat for a South Philadelphia butcher shop at age 11. “I’ve done it all: dishwasher, bus boy, prep cook, ice cream scooper, server, bar back, cater-waiter, hot dog stand hype man at Eagles and Phillies game. If there was a job in a restaurant, chances are I’ve worn the name tag. And honestly, I’d do it all again. The restaurant industry shaped who I am today, and I carry that with pride every day.”
About Smalls Sliders
Smalls Sliders is known for its fresh, cooked-to-order cheeseburger sliders. Founded by Brandon Landry in 2019, the burger franchise is led by CEO Charles Watson and backed by 10 Point Capital and former NFL star Drew Brees, as investors.
