The National Restaurant Association has announced Leslie Nagao as its new Chief Marketing Officer. Nagao will lead efforts to unify internal teams and external partners, aiming to strengthen the restaurant industry's message, boost association membership, and expand the products and services offered to restaurant operators.
Michelle Korsmo, President & CEO of the National Restaurant Association, stated, “Leslie is the marketing leader we need to position the National Restaurant Association and the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation to be indispensable partners to the restaurant industry.” Korsmo highlighted Nagao's expertise in brand strategy, member engagement, product marketing, events and communications, and public relations. She added that Nagao's role as CMO would involve unifying and elevating their marketing strategy for a cohesive brand experience.
Nagao previously served as Global CMO at the Urban Land Institute (ULI), where she was instrumental in driving membership growth and enhancing ULI's global brand reputation. Her professional background includes senior marketing roles at ExxonMobil, AARP, Time Warner, and agency leadership at WPP.
Reflecting on her appointment, Nagao said: "The restaurant and hospitality industry has been a defining part of my journey—from my first job to my college years." She emphasized her commitment to championing the industry's story while highlighting its economic contributions.