New York City Celebrates a Trailblazer in Marketing
Last month, New York City played host to a remarkable event that honored some of the most influential women in the marketing industry, and we had the chance to witness it all! Melissa Fry, the Senior Director of Marketing at HOA Brands, the company behind the ever-popular Hooters and Hoots Wings, was recognized as one of Ragan’s Top Women in Marketing, Class of 2024!
A Recognition Well Deserved
This honor is no small feat. Out of a competitive pool filled with talented professionals, Fry shone brightly due to her incredible contributions to the field of marketing. She has been instrumental in shaping the marketing strategies that drive brand-building results through innovative initiatives. Talk about making an impact!
During the awards ceremony held at the trendy City Winery, marketing pros from all corners of the industry gathered to celebrate the achievements of the 2024 honorees, and Fry’s presence added a special touch to the occasion. Brendan Gannon, the Senior Marketing Manager for Ragan’s Award programs, expressed his excitement over Melissa’s honor, stating, “Her leadership, creativity, and dedication to driving impactful marketing strategies truly set her apart.”
Her Journey: From Hooters Girl to Marketing Leader
Fry’s journey with the Hooters brand is nothing short of inspiring. Starting as a Hooters Girl nearly 25 years ago, she has climbed her way up the ladder by understanding the brand’s essence from the ground up. As Bruce Skala, the Chief Marketing Officer at HOA Brands, pointed out, her deep knowledge of the brand translates into sharp strategies that benefit not just the company but the communities they serve.
Melissa effectively leads a talented team of marketing managers and agency partners to breathe life into the Hooters brand, focusing on local programming. She has a hand in numerous successful marketing initiatives, including the iconic Miss Hooters International Pageant and the annual Give a Hoot campaign, which has raised millions for breast cancer research. Fry’s leadership and commitment are commendable, and they have undoubtedly played a significant role in showcasing the brand’s vibrant spirit.
Impact Beyond Just Marketing
What makes Ragan’s Top Women in Marketing Awards particularly special is their focus on leaders who are reshaping the marketing landscape through various avenues. This includes innovating in digital and social media, promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives, and mentoring future leaders. Fry’s inclusion in this esteemed group not only solidifies her stature but also shines a light on the *important work* being done at Hooters to uplift and promote female leaders within the company.
In today’s fast-paced restaurant industry, Fry has proven that she can adapt and flourish, skillfully driving marketing strategies that resonate with customers. Her commitment to excellence in creating engaging food and beverage promotions, coupled with her efforts in community engagement, illustrates her passion for her work.
Celebration and Looking Ahead
As we look back on the celebration at City Winery, it’s clear that this is just the beginning for Melissa Fry and her team at Hooters. With her at the helm of marketing initiatives, we can expect to see more innovative campaigns and impactful contributions that resonate well beyond the walls of the restaurant. It’s exciting to think about what the future holds not just for Fry but for all the women leading the charge in marketing today. Cheers to women like Melissa who inspire others to reach for the stars!
