Fast-casual restaurant brand CAVA has named John Ludeke, former Dr. Squatch chief brand officer, as its new chief marketing officer.
The news comes after the QSR brand’s former chief marketer Andy Rebhun left the company to join Panera.
In the role, Ludeke will lead CAVA’s marketing organization with a focus on brand differentiation, guest loyalty and engagement, digital and restaurant experiences as the brand grows.
Ludeke joins the company with more than 17 years of experience as a brand leader. In his most recent role at Dr. Squatch, he led global brand, creative, brand and retail media, social, public relations, retail marketing, partnerships and marketing strategy. He is credited with helping grow Dr. Squatch to $500 million in revenue and establishing it as a leading men’s personal care brands and being acquired by Unilever. Prior to Dr. Squatch, Ludeke spent more than a decade at Monster Energy.
“John is a proven builder of culturally relevant consumer brands and a thoughtful, passionate leader who knows how to turn brand belief into business momentum,” said Brett Schulman, co- founder and CEO of CAVA, in a statement.
“CAVA has built something truly special: a brand rooted in great food, warm hospitality and a clear point of view on how food should make people feel,” said Ludeke. “The company has tremendous momentum and a powerful opportunity to shape the future of the industry. I’m excited to join this team, learn from the team who has built CAVA and help bring CAVA’s Mediterranean spirit to even more guests and communities.”
