KFC is bringing back Amy Ellis Durini as its Global Chief Brand Officer, placing a former KFC marketing executive at the center of the chicken chain’s effort to modernize its global brand, loyalty strategy and restaurant experience.
Durini will take on the newly created role on November 1, 2026, reporting directly to KFC Global CEO Scott Mezvinsky. She returns to KFC from Taco Bell International, where she most recently served as Chief Marketing and Strategy Officer.
Her remit will extend beyond traditional marketing. Durini will oversee global brand strategy, loyalty and retail, new concept development and innovation, while working closely with KFC’s marketing leaders across individual markets. The objective is to create a more consistent and modern expression of KFC worldwide while allowing local teams to adapt the brand to their markets.
The appointment comes at a pivotal moment for KFC. In June, the chain unveiled what it called its “next chapter”, a global effort built around menu innovation, modern restaurant design and refreshed branding. The initiative initially launched in the UK and Ireland and is expected to eventually reach KFC’s 34,000-plus restaurants across more than 150 countries.
KFC is positioning the transformation around a more flavor-forward food proposition, including boneless chicken and new sauces, alongside updated restaurants and a refreshed visual identity. The company has said the goal is to make the brand more relevant to today’s consumers while retaining the elements that have made KFC recognizable for decades.
“In an increasingly crowded category, we have a clear opportunity to set the standard for modern chicken in QSR,” Mezvinsky said. He added that the next chapter would bring “new energy and expression” to KFC while doubling down on its chicken and reimagining how customers experience the brand globally.
