T-Mobile USA hires new CMO

Denny Marie Post has joined T-Mobile USA Inc. as chief marketing officer. She was previously senior VP of global food and beverage at Starbucks.

“Denny has deep and varied experience as a marketing leader in some of the most competitive retail environments in America,” Robert Dotson, president and CEO of T-Mobile USA, said in a statement. “We’re delighted she brings her extensive talents to T-Mobile to further drive our mission of enriching personal relationships.”

Fast-food experience

Post, in fact, brings a wealth of fast-food experience to the digital carrier. She previously held positions at Burger King and KFC. She could not immediately be reached for comment. Post started at T-Mobile on June 16.

She has an impressive budget to play with. According to TNS Media Intelligence, the wireless carrier spent $607 million in measured media last year.

Bridget Baker, a Starbucks spokeswoman, said Post resigned her position several weeks ago. She said Post’s job has yet to be filled, but her team will continue to focus on the projects she was overseeing.

Starbucks’ food struggles

Post left Starbucks at a pivotal time in the food department. The chain, which has been struggling with its sales, admitted earlier this year that the smell of its breakfast sandwiches had interfered with store experience. Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz has promised a variety of healthier food options at Starbucks by this fall.

The coffee chain is currently testing a variety of products with the La Brea Bakery, primarily in Southern California, Baker said.

Emily Bryson York is a reporter for Advertising Age, a sister publication to RCR Wireless News. Both publications are owned by Crain Communications Inc.

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