Melissa Fry Honored as One of Ragan’s Top Women in Marketing 2024
New York City is buzzing with excitement as Melissa Fry, the Senior Director of Marketing at HOA Brands—the company behind the beloved Hooters and Hoots Wings—celebrates her recent accolade of being named one of Ragan’s Top Women in Marketing, Class of 2024. This recognition is not just a title; it’s a prestigious honor that highlights the remarkable work of women who are making waves in the marketing world.
Fry stood out among a highly competitive field of candidates, showcasing her innovative approach to marketing strategies and her ability to build brands through pioneering initiatives. A true powerhouse in the restaurant industry, her expertise encompasses everything from engaging food and beverage promotions to effective digital marketing campaigns and high-profile events.
Spotlight on Leadership and Creativity
The ceremony took place last month at the Top Women in Marketing Awards Luncheon held at the charming City Winery in New York City. Industry professionals came together to celebrate the accomplishments of the 2024 honorees, and the atmosphere was electric with shared stories of success. Brendan Gannon, the Senior Marketing Manager for Ragan’s Award programs, expressed his enthusiasm about Fry’s recognition by stating, “We are thrilled to honor Melissa as one of Ragan’s Top Women in Marketing. Her leadership, creativity, and dedication truly set her apart.”
A Journey from Hooters Girl to Marketing Leader
Fry’s connection to the Hooters brand runs deep; she began her career as a Hooters Girl almost 25 years ago. Since then, she has gained an intricate understanding of the brand from both the franchise and corporate viewpoints. Her journey is a testament to her dedication and hard work, which have equipped her with a unique perspective that contributes to her sharp marketing strategies.
According to Bruce Skala, the Chief Marketing Officer at HOA Brands, “Melissa is a perfect example of how Hooters is passionate about lifting up female leaders within the company.” He praised her extensive knowledge, stating how it allows her to lead national teams and manage high-profile programs effectively. From the iconic Miss Hooters International Pageant to the annual Give a Hoot campaign—which has raised millions for breast cancer research—Fry has consistently delivered exceptional results while embodying the spirit of the Hooters brand.
Recognition of Excellence
The Top Women in Marketing Awards is a superb platform that honors leaders not only reshaping the marketing landscape but also fostering diversity and inclusion, mentoring the next generation of leaders, and exhibiting strategic brilliance in their campaigns. Fry’s inclusion in this esteemed class underscores her status as a leader in the marketing industry.
This acknowledgment is meaningful not only for Fry but also for Hooters, where her achievements shine a light on the importance of female representation in leadership roles. The restaurant brand has made it a priority to promote the growth and advancement of women within its ranks, which has solidified its commitment to gender equity.
A Brand that Combines Fun and Flavor
For those who might not know, Hooters of America, LLC operates more than 410 restaurants across 38 states and 24 countries, celebrated for its world-famous Hooters Style chicken wings. The first restaurant opened its doors in Clearwater, Florida back in 1983, marking the beginning of a journey that would delight millions with its signature hospitality and scrumptious food.
The Hooters experience is all about enjoying great food, fun, and the unique service style offered by the Hooters Girls. It’s not surprising that the brand continues to thrive and evolve, creating a space where everyone feels welcome and valued.
In conclusion, Melissa Fry’s remarkable journey reflects a blend of passion, leadership, and marketing savvy. Her recent accolade stands as a testament to her outstanding contributions and serves as an inspiration for many aspiring marketers out there. Cheers to Melissa and the exciting future of Hooters!
Author: STAFF HERE PLYMOUTH WRITER
The PLYMOUTH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPlymouth.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Plymouth, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Plymouth Ice Festival, Art in the Park, and the Plymouth Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Plymouth Community Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Plymouth, plus leading businesses in automotive and retail that power the local economy such as Roush Industries and Downtown Plymouth businesses. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HERENovi.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
