by Iman Milner
November 3, 2023
Sean Tresvant will become chief executive officer of Taco Bell Division on Jan. 1, 2024, succeeding 2023 Restaurant Leader of the Year Mark King. Yum! Brands, Inc. announced that Tresvant will take over global leadership for the popular brand and help to drive growth, improve franchise operations, and stimulate performance.
“Sean is a visionary business leader and best-in-class brand builder who is driving transformative R.E.D. (relevant, easy, distinctive) sales-powering efforts, from omni-channel initiatives to digital customer touchpoints, to accelerate growth and further elevate and differentiate the Taco Bell fan and team member experience,” said David Gibbs of Yum! Brands, Inc.
“Sean is laser focused on keeping our powerhouse Taco Bell brand at the leading edge of culture and redefining innovation in the industry. That’s why he is the ideal executive to continue successfully executing Taco Bell’s long-term global growth strategies and take them to the next level in partnership with the brand’s strong and accomplished leadership team and incredible franchisees. Sean, Mark and I will continue to work closely together over the coming months to ensure a seamless transition.”
Tresvant joined Taco Bell in 2022 as the company’s global chief brand officer, overseeing strategy, food innovation, architecture and design, and global communications for its international business. Before joiningTaco Bell, he worked at Nike’s iconic Jordan Brand for over 15 years. With his expertise and knowledge of what drives brand loyalty, Tresvant helped Taco Bell create some of its most innovative marketing moments and secure high-profile celebrity endorsements.
Taco Bell took home Nation’s Restaurant News’ 2023 Brand Icon Award which Tresvant was on hand to accept.
“No matter what size your brand, it’s knowing who you’re talking to. That’s the most important thing you can do,” he said. “Second, how do you use tech to solve problems for the consumer or in the kitchen? Tech is going to be a separator of good brands and great brands. Third, you’ve got to swing for the fences. I always tell my team, if we’re not uncomfortable, I’m not sure we’re pushing hard enough.”
