News Summary
Chick-fil-A is undergoing a significant leadership transition as Jon Bridges announces his retirement after 30 years, with Michael Lage stepping in as the new CMO. The change coincides with Chick-fil-A’s 80th anniversary celebrations and the launch of a major marketing campaign themed around nostalgia. With a collaborative transition period, the company aims to ensure a smooth handover while looking forward to a bright future.
Chick-fil-A Welcomes New Leadership as Jon Bridges Retires
In some big news from the heart of Chick-fil-A, the beloved company is preparing for a significant change in its leadership. After more than 30 incredible years with Chick-fil-A, Jon Bridges, the current Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), has announced his retirement. The news was first shared by the Atlanta Business Chronicle and later confirmed internally at Chick-fil-A.
A Legacy of Leadership
Jon Bridges has been a vital part of Chick-fil-A, serving as the CMO since 2015. During his time, he has not only focused on marketing but has also held crucial roles, including Chief Information Officer and Vice President of Customer Experience. This multifaceted experience gave him a unique perspective on how to connect with customers and enhance their overall experience.
His last day in the role will be March 31, 2026, marking the end of an era. Jon has undoubtedly left his mark on the company, guiding its marketing strategy and customer engagement initiatives with passion and creativity.
Meet the Successor: Michael Lage
Taking over the reins from Bridges is Michael Lage, a familiar face at Chick-fil-A who has spent the past 14 years with the company. Michael most recently served as the Vice President of Field Operations, where he undoubtedly gained valuable insights into how things run behind the scenes.
Michael has worn many hats during his time at Chick-fil-A, holding various roles such as Manager of Customer Relationship Strategies and Senior Director of Go-to-Market Strategy. Most recently, he made the transition to Executive Director of Existing Restaurant Real Estate in 2023. Michael began his Chick-fil-A journey as the Coordinator of Marketing Education, showing that he has a strong foundation in both marketing and customer service.
A Smooth Transition
To ensure a smooth transition, Bridges and Lage will collaborate closely for a three-month overlap, allowing for effective training and guidance. This teamwork is a testament to the company’s commitment to making sure that Michael is well-prepared to step into his new role and uphold the high standards set by Jon.
Exciting Times Ahead: Chick-fil-A’s 80th Anniversary
The timing of this leadership change is particularly fitting, as it aligns with Chick-fil-A’s 80th anniversary celebrations. This milestone marks a momentous occasion for the company, which has become a staple in the fast-food industry over the decades.
In fact, alongside the leadership shift, Chick-fil-A is rolling out its largest marketing campaign to date! The campaign has a unique “newstalgia” theme that combines nostalgia with modern touches. You can look forward to retro-style cups and merchandise, along with new menu launches. If you’re a fan, you won’t want to miss out on the Golden Cup Sweepstakes that promises to bring even more excitement to customers!
What This Means for Chick-fil-A’s Future
With Michael Lage stepping in as the new CMO, the future looks bright for Chick-fil-A. His extensive background and experience within the company suggest that he will continue to uphold the values and vision that have made Chick-fil-A a household name.
As we bid farewell to Jon Bridges, we also welcome new beginnings with open arms. The leadership transition and marketing campaign are sure to set the stage for Chick-fil-A’s next chapter, one that is sure to be filled with innovation, customer connection, and delicious chicken sandwiches.
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Additional Resources
- Nation’s Restaurant News: Jon Bridges Retires as Chief Marketing Officer of Chick-fil-A
- Wikipedia: Chick-fil-A
- 1851 Franchise: Chick-fil-A Welcomes New Chief Marketing Officer
- Google Search: Chick-fil-A marketing strategy
- Nation’s Restaurant News: Taco Bell Promotes Several Executives
- Google Scholar: Chick-fil-A corporate leadership
- Adweek: Chick-fil-A Drops Richards Group After More Than 2 Decades
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Marketing in Restaurant Industry
- Fox Business: Chick-fil-A, Starbucks, McDonald’s & Restaurant Chains in the US
- Google News: Chick-fil-A news
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
