Women’s Foodservice Forum Names Ellie Doty Chief Brand Officer

Why It Matters

Doty's deep brand‑building experience positions WFF to accelerate member growth and broaden its influence in a competitive foodservice landscape. Strengthening the organization’s brand could translate into more robust networking, education, and advocacy for the sector’s next generation of leaders.

Key Takeaways

• Ellie Doty joins WFF as chief brand officer
• Previously CMO at Burger King and Chili’s
• Denny’s brand officer since May 2025
• WFF serves 9,000+ members and 70 partners
• Doty will drive membership growth and industry partnerships

Pulse Analysis

The Women’s Foodservice Forum has long served as a nexus for professionals seeking career advancement, policy insight, and networking within the restaurant and hospitality sectors. With a membership base exceeding 9,000 and a network of 70 partner organizations, WFF’s influence extends from independent operators to multinational chains. As the industry grapples with labor shortages, evolving consumer tastes, and digital transformation, a strong, unified brand voice becomes essential for advocacy and education.

Ellie Doty’s appointment marks a strategic infusion of high‑profile marketing talent. Her tenure at Denny’s saw the brand revitalize its image to attract younger diners, while her earlier stints at Burger King, Chili’s, and KFC demonstrated an ability to scale campaigns across diverse demographics. Doty’s expertise in data‑driven storytelling and cross‑channel activation equips WFF to modernize its outreach, leveraging social media, virtual events, and on‑demand resources to meet members where they are.

Looking ahead, Doty’s mandate to broaden partnerships and deepen membership engagement could reshape the forum’s value proposition. By aligning with emerging food‑tech innovators, sustainability advocates, and supply‑chain stakeholders, WFF can position itself as a thought leader on industry trends. Enhanced branding may also attract sponsorships and educational grants, fueling new programming that equips foodservice professionals with the skills needed for a rapidly changing market. In sum, Doty’s leadership is poised to amplify WFF’s reach, reinforcing its role as a catalyst for career growth and industry collaboration.