Hoppe Will Enhance the Pizza Franchise’s Digital Infrastructure and More
The Cicis pizza buffet franchise has named Stephanie Hoppe its new chief marketing officer (CMO). In this new role, Hoppe will work to enhance the brand’s digital infrastructure and use a marketing strategy to engage with its fans. She was recently the vice president of marketing for the Wild Alaskan Company, a technology-based, direct-to-consumer sustainable seafood company.
“First and foremost, I’ve always admired Cicis for its genuine dedication to both franchisees and guests – a brand that truly cares about its people is special. With an already dedicated fan base, I’m looking forward to building upon Cicis’ digital landscape with the goal of creating even more exciting experiences and offerings,” Hoppe said in a statement. She believes that “the sky’s the limit with Cicis,” and she looks forward to joining “an innovative team that is elevating the brand experience for both team members and guests,” she said.
Regarding her new position, Jeff Hetsel, president and chief operating officer of Cicis, said,
“We are so thrilled to welcome Stephanie to the seasoned leadership team we’ve established here at Cicis. She has done some truly incredible work with so many admirable brands, and we can’t wait to see what kind of innovation she brings to our franchisees and guests.”
Hetsel praises Hoppe’s creative vision and believes that she will bring the franchise to new levels of success. The appointment came about when Hoppe’s former colleague introduced her to Hetsel. “Our first three-hour discussion flew by, and I knew immediately that this role was an ideal fit. It offered dynamic leadership with an amazing culture and brand. Priceless,” Hoppe said.
Hoppe’s Marketing Experience
Throughout her career, Hoppe has focused on driving results for restaurant brands through digital transformation. Brands she has worked with include Bar Louie, Red Robin, and Lyfe Kitchen. She will use her technological experience to improve the customer experience both online and in Cicis stores.
She had an interesting start to her marketing career. “My marketing career began right after college with an entry-level position at a resort in Alaska; that then led to marketing and innovation roles in the restaurant industry. Marketing provided a dynamic and fast-paced environment that was a perfect match for my interests and skill set,” Hoppe said.
A New Cicis Partnership
To support its marketing efforts, the pizza franchise recently partnered with 3Headed Monster, a Dallas-based advertising agency. Cicis hopes to be able to better tell its story through this partnership with the advertising agency.
Cicis invented the all-you-can-eat pizza buffet concept and offers customers salads, desserts, and pasta in addition to its flatbreads and traditional crust pizza. Since it was founded in 1983, the pizza franchise has expanded to more than 300 restaurants in 23 states.