Restaurant India News: Pizza Hut India Names Manish Guptaa as CMO to Lead Next Phase of Brand Growth

Pizza Hut India, a part of Yum! Brands, has appointed Manish Guptaa as its new Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). In this role, Manish will oversee all marketing and branding activities with the goal of enhancing Pizza Hut’s relevance and positioning in India’s competitive food market. Until a new leader is appointed, he will also continue to manage the Digital & Technology division.

Manish’s approach will focus on a back-to-core strategy aimed at making Pizza Hut more accessible and appealing to a younger and broader audience. His responsibilities include offering value-driven initiatives, introducing innovative menu items, and creating campaigns that align with contemporary consumer preferences. Additionally, he will play a key role in refining the brand’s identity, fostering deeper engagement with younger customers, and driving the brand’s transformation for its next growth phase.

Rohan Pewekar, Managing Director, Pizza Hut Indian Subcontinent, said, “Manish has been a driving force behind some of our most impactful digital innovations and campaigns in recent years. His deep understanding of consumer behavior, combined with his strategic and tech-forward mindset, makes him the ideal leader to steer our marketing strategy into its next phase of growth. We are excited to see him take on the role of CMO and further strengthen Pizza Hut’s position as the brand of choice for today’s consumers.”

Manish, who joined Pizza Hut in 2019, previously led the brand’s digital and technology efforts as Chief Digital & Technology Officer. He built a robust performance marketing system, expanded digital commerce operations, and embedded data-driven insights into the company’s decision-making processes. His leadership has been instrumental in reshaping how Pizza Hut engages with consumers online.

Manish Guptaa, CMO, Pizza Hut India, said, “At the heart of our brand is craveability - the irresistible appeal that keeps consumers coming back for more. My focus will be to build on this by delivering our iconic and craveable pizza, bold flavors, and unforgettable brand experiences that spark joy and desire. As we move forward, we will strengthen Pizza Hut as a modern, digital-first brand that connects deeply with consumers through data-driven storytelling and agile marketing strategies.”

Manish brings over 20 years of experience in quick service restaurants, automotive, and consumer technology sectors. His expertise in strategic planning and consumer insights will guide Pizza Hut’s marketing direction, ensuring the brand stays relevant and future-ready in India’s evolving food landscape. Outside of work, he is actively involved in mentoring young professionals and sharing knowledge through teaching and speaking engagements.

This leadership transition marks a significant step for Pizza Hut as it looks to build on its existing strengths and expand its footprint in the Indian market through innovation and deeper customer connections.