Director of Marketing

Doherty Enterprises•Allendale, NJ

41d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Director of Marketing is responsible for leading and executing the company’s marketing strategy across its portfolio of restaurant brands, with primary accountability for Applebee’s marketing for Doherty Enterprises. This role serves as the senior marketing leader, overseeing the internal marketing team, directing priorities and workload, and ensuring marketing efforts are aligned with company strategy, operational needs, and franchisor requirements. The Director operates as both a strategic leader and hands-on operator, ensuring marketing initiatives drive measurable business results.

Requirements

Strong leadership and ability to set direction and drive accountability
Ability to operate at both strategic and execution levels
Strong organizational and prioritization skills in a fast-paced environment
Solid business acumen with understanding of how marketing drives performance
Effective communication and ability to influence at all levels
Experience managing and developing teams
Data-driven mindset with ability to interpret performance and adjust strategy
Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, or related field
5–8+ years in a marketing leadership role with direct reports
Proven track record of driving measurable business results
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Nice To Haves

Experience in multi-unit restaurant, retail, or hospitality environment preferred
Experience working within franchise systems strongly preferred

Responsibilities

Own and lead Applebee’s marketing strategy for Doherty Enterprises, ensuring alignment with initiatives while driving local performance
Develop and execute marketing strategies across all brands to support sales, traffic, and profitability
Lead, prioritize, and oversee the marketing team, including assigning work, managing workload, and ensuring accountability for deliverables
Establish clear direction, timelines, and standards for execution across all marketing initiatives
Partner closely with Operations and cross-functional leaders to ensure marketing initiatives are practical, executable, and aligned with business needs
Own and maintain a 12-month marketing calendar across brands
Oversee all advertising, digital, social, and in-store marketing to ensure brand consistency and effectiveness
Ensure compliance and coordination with franchisor marketing programs and requirements
Manage relationships with external agencies and vendors as needed
Use data and insights to evaluate performance and adjust strategy
Own and manage the marketing budget to ensure effective use of resources
Lead marketing strategy for new restaurant openings, remodels, and key initiatives