Fast-food hamburger chain and retail consumer-packaged good brand White Castle is promoting Jamie Richardson to chief marketing officer. As CMO, Richardson will play a central role in shaping how White Castle tells its story, connects with consumers and lives out its brand values.

Richardson succeeds Lynn Blashford, who is retiring from White Castle after 15 years of service, the last six as chief marketing officer.

“Jamie brings a deep knowledge of our brand, strong relationships across our communities and an unwavering belief in what makes White Castle special,” said Lisa Ingram, CEO of White Castle and the great-granddaughter of White Castle’s founder, Billy Ingram. “I have full confidence that Jamie will carry forward the strong foundation Lynn has built while continuing to bring fresh ideas and energy to the team.”

“White Castle has been a part of my life for more than 27 years, and I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to serve as chief marketing officer,” said Richardson, a fourth-generation family member. “We exist to feed the souls of craver generations everywhere. Sharing our story with more cravers and potential cravers helps us do just that. Whether you’re seeking us out at the drive-thru or in your grocer’s freezer aisle, our marketing mission is to make sure you know the Castle has you covered.”

Richardson joined the White Castle home office team in 1998 as regional marketing supervisor. He was promoted to assistant director of marketing, director of marketing and, in 2008, vice president of corporate relations and communications. In that position, he was responsible for shareholder relations, government relations, philanthropy and internal communications. In January 2020, Richardson was given a broader role in the business, becoming vice president of marketing and public relations, where he led a dedicated team to grow the relevance of and reverence for the White Castle brand. Prior to White Castle, Richardson held leadership roles at advertising agency J. Walter Thompson.

As CMO, Richardson will report to White Castle President Anthony Joseph.

A resident of Mount Vernon, Ohio, Richardson is a past board chair of the Ohio Restaurant Association and the National Council of Chain Restaurants. He currently serves as a vice chair for the national board of Autism Speaks and is an active volunteer at St. John the Baptist parish.

Source: White Castle