LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Nov. 4, 2014) — David Gibbs, president of Pizza Hut’s United States operations, will take over as the global CEO of the Louisville-based subsidiary of Yum! Brands Inc.
Gibbs will replace Scott Bergren, who is retiring at the end of this year. In his new role, Gibbs will assume responsibility for driving the brand strategy and performance of Pizza Hut globally.
“David Gibbs is an accomplished leader with a proven track record of success and considerable experience in the restaurant industry,” said Yum! Brands Chairman and CEO David C. Novak. “He has been a consistent growth driver, has a deep passion for the Pizza Hut brand and lives our culture.
Prior to serving as president of Pizza Hut’s U.S. operations, Gibbs was the president and chief financial officer for YUM Brands International, leading the finance, information technology, supply chain and development functions for the division as well as having general management responsibility for several international markets. His career at YUM, which began in 1989, also includes roles as chief financial officer of Pizza Hut as well as vice president of development for YUM U.S.
“I’m thrilled about continuing to work alongside my entire management team, as well as with our franchise and corporate partners, to move our brand forward all over the world,” Gibbs said. “This is a beloved brand with millions of fans and I couldn’t be more excited about where we’re headed.”
As part of his global responsibilities, Gibbs will retain direct leadership of Pizza Hut in the U.S., while, Tracy Skeans, 41, is being promoted to president of Pizza Hut International and will report to Gibbs. Most recently, Skeans served as chief people officer of Pizza Hut, Global. She has worked 14 years for YUM and Pizza Hut in a number of finance and human resources leadership roles. In her new position, Skeans will focus on ensuring a clear path to grow Pizza Hut outside the U.S.
“Tracy is an incredible, well-rounded leader who was the ideal fit for this position,” Gibbs said. “Her knowledge of our system, our markets and what it takes to win around the world sets us up for huge growth opportunities.”
Gibbs and Skeans aren’t the only Yum employees moving into a new position on Jan. 1. The company reported in May that Taco Bell Corp. CEO Greg Creed will take over as CEO of Yum! Brands with Novak remaining in as executive chairman.
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